Bonjour 'Barak' -- France loves America again

It's been a while since France went so crazy over the United States. Decades at least and perhaps not since John Kennedy's days in the early 1960s.

The pleasure and admiration today over the election of Barack Obama is genuine. It's coming from all sides -- not just the editorialists, politicians and philosophers who have been spouting in the media.

President Sarkozy was so enthused that he dashed off an effusive note at 5am Paris time, about an hour after the result appeared. However, he didn't get the name right and scribbled "Cher Barak".

The man at the newspaper kiosk congratulated me with a broad smile. He knows I'm not American but Anglo-Saxon is close enough. Like quite a few people, he had stayed up very late watching the results.   

The picture above gives a flavour. It's from Rue89, a popular leftwing news site. The headline reads: This time the world says thank you to America. Le Monde, also on the left, was breathless about Obama's campaign. "What intelligence, what mastery, what sang-froid..." it said this afternoon. 

Or take the response of Jack Lang, a senior Socialist and long-serving culture minister under the late President Mitterrand: "The America that we love is back. This election will have the effect of an electric shock and will bring about a spiritual revolution." 

The goodwill is just as strong from Sarkozy's centre-right party. "The Americans have voted for the American dream," gushed Patrick Devedjian, a Sarkozy friend and leader of the president's UMP party.

As well as sending high-speed congratulations, Sarkozy is talking to Obama by phone tonight. Super Sarko is losing no time in seizing glory from Obama's victory, to the point of suggesting that the Democrat copied him. "America last night made the choice of la rupture", the President told the weekly Cabinet meeting today. La rupture -- a clean break or fresh start -- was the formula that won Sarko the presidency in the spring of 2007.

Sarkozy is pointing out to everyone that he spotted Obama early on, holding talks with him in Washington in 2006 when he was Interior Minister. Sarko's people say that Obama's team sought tips from them -- as John McCain's did too -- after his blitzkrieg election campaign last year. In Paris last July (picture below), Obama joked that he asked France's hyper-president what he was on. "He's constantly in motion -- but that's the way to be," said the Senator.

Obama has been tickled by the French passion for his candidacy. "It's strange that I am so popular in France," he told a group of tourists in Florida on Monday. "I hear that you have problems in the banlieues (ethnic estates) and that the blacks are demonstrating. yet I hear that all the French, even the whites, would vote for me" (Today's Canard Enchaîné reported the exchange).

Obama then joked about the way that McCain was accusing him of being that most un-American animal, a socialist.  "You have socialists in France. Tell me, is it a serious disease?" he asked.

The euphoria, which is partly driven by the imminent farewell to George W Bush, will soon subside. Some commentators are trying to calm the near hysteria, reminding France that Obama is still an American, not a Frenchman, and that there will be inevitable disappointment. But rekindled love affair with les Etats Unis is enjoyable while it lasts.

Thursday update: As French Obamania rages on, we learned today that the President-elect is part French and a descendant of royalty, no less. Le Parisien reports that one of his ancestors was Marin Duval, a protestant who fled to Maryland from Nantes during the religious persecution of the 17th century. Another was the 14th century King Jean le Bon.   

Comments

[Chris Divine]

I spent time in France under Clinton and Bush. There was a huge difference in the way I was treated. The worst was teaching in the banlieue during the invasion of Iraq. Boy did that suck!
I guess people are always guilty by association no matter where they are from.

[azloon]

i say: let anyone who wants to bask in the glow of Obama's victory. this was a victory of humanity over the forces of hatred and bigotry. so Sarko, please take any credit you want. no one will believe you anyway, but no one will care either. your reaction is predictable, and harmless.

last night was awesome for many of us here. it was our 'berlin wall' moment. a moment no one felt would ever come.

even the most conservative, republican politicians and commentators admitted to shedding tears and feeling pride that perhaps the u.s. is back to being a somewhat accurate reflection of our beliefs and principles. and it was, imo, a collective expression of relief from guilt and embarrassment that many here have felt over the past decade.

if the u.s. can't abide it's own well-known public creed, then we don't have much to offer the world. nor can we solve our own problems.

for a moment or two, all of us can feel that perhaps our example is worthy of admiration and even emulation.

[Born and Live in the USA]

Keep in mind it wasn't a landslide victory for Mr. Obama. As far as Europe is concerned, most of here still think France is world joke, the UK is a basket case, Germany is sinking, and Italy.... well what can you say.

[Mike D]

We have elected a weak man who speaks well!
Europe will rue the day the USA is seen as weak by the enemies of reason and rule of law.
Europe's freedom is closely bound to our (USA) strength.
Watch:
Russia will move to consolidate its position of strength...
Muslims in Europe (with middle east backing) will gain more political power...
China will expand its power base...
BARACK OBAMA will do NOTHING!!!!!

[Jay]

There was a lot of resistance to Barak in the States because of the way he was embraced by Europe. An overwhelming majority of Americans do not want our country to resembe Europe in any way. The fact that our President Elect is embraced so warmly by Europeans only strengthens half the US population to be vary wary of him.

[Frank Israel]

BORN AND LIVE IN USA,

As is custom here in the states during a contest where the losing side is having trouble maintaining a sense of their fate within the context of the competition may I point out to you the scoreboard. Yes, indeed perhaps here winning is everything. The point now is to accept your fate, maintain some composure and take your beating like a man.

[Michelle in Colorado]

"Born and Live in the USA", you do not speak for us.

[mauisan]

We voted for hope not fear, for change not status quo, for the passion of youth not the torpor of old. It si true, we voted for the American dream. We have shown the world that we Americans can reinvent ourselves, seek redemption for our excesses, and by our actions restore the dream that is America. Today, I am so proud to be an American.

[Pete]

"An overwhelming majority of Americans do not want our country to resembe Europe in any way."

Oh really?? And you get this data from where???

[Micheal]

as Russia sharpens it's claws to dig into Eastern Europe....

[Pete]

"An overwhelming majority of Americans do not want our country to resembe Europe in any way."

Oh really?? And you get this data from where???

[Pete]

"An overwhelming majority of Americans do not want our country to resembe Europe in any way."

Oh really?? And you get this data from where???

[Trey in Seattle]

Michelle in Colorado,
Thank you for so succinctly stating that fact. It's sad that at such an historic moment there are those so apt to want to disparage the new President and the rest of the world for celebrating. Electing Obama doesn't mean we don't still live with ignorance and closed-mindedness. It just means we're gaining ground on it.

[French Stephanie who lives in the UK]

After seing how Bush got elected in the first place, I knew the image of the USA to the world had been seriously damaged and then came 9/11... I never understood why the Americans relected Bush! America had become a joke to its opponents!
I cry of joy with Obama's success not just because he is black but because the Americans finally made the right choice! or maybe they didn't have any?..
Good luck Obama!

[French Stephanie who lives in the UK]

After seing how Bush got elected in the first place, I knew the image of the USA to the world had been seriously damaged and then came 9/11... I never understood why the Americans relected Bush! America had become a joke to its opponents!
I cry of joy with Obama's success not just because he is black but because the Americans finally made the right choice! or maybe they didn't have any?..
Good luck Obama!

[Steve in Chevy Chase]

Born and Live in the USA does not represent thinking Americans. There are many ideas to be shared across the Atlantic in both directions. For the record, Obama (as of now so you may need to add NC and MO) won 349 electoral votes. Aside from Reagan '84 that is the largest margin since 1944. That is indeed a landslide.

[Sylvia]

As an American I will support any President we have, but make no mistake half the county is NOT HAPPY. Some only voted for him because he is half black and they wanted to see and African American in office in their lifetime and that IS NOT the way to pick a president. He is not half the man John McCain is and I hope he has a great cabinet because he will need all the support he can get.

[Jeff]

To Frank Israel: Republicans always accept their fate with heads held high and respect to the opposition, it's only when Democrats lose do we hear about all the fraud and whining and crying. So celebrate, eat and drink now for tomorrow you will see what having a weak, all-talk no-action, USA will get the world into! Clinton was all talk too, and it culminated 9/11. Our military will be weaker, our country will not protect Europe as we do when Republicans are in power, so enjoy Europe.

[Lily]

Jay -

Your position has had a voice on this blog already. Honestly, I don't believe that the American people care all that much about what Europeans think of their preferences.

How many Americans can afford to travel to Europe after all and know what life is like over here?

It is interesting to read of serious, founded criticism of BaraCk Obama/his politics but such vague statements belong to yesterday.
I'm glad that 'resistance' caused by Europeans (?) has been overcome.

The new credo now is "come together", try to understand one another, find compromise, seek solutions, ... - It's the end to a "culture of bashing and fighting".
DIPLOMACY's the new word.

Frank Israel - has got it right!

And it's a joy to read azloon!

[JJ in Brooklyn NYC]

"Born and Live in the USA" is totally inaccurate. Obama won the popular vote and by a decent margin. George W. Bush NEVER won the popular vote. He only won the electoral vote and by a slim margin. Whereas Obama got over twice as many electoral votes. The Obama victory was a landslide compared to George W. Bush's. As for attitudes towards Europe, we love Europe. Only Americans who have never actually been to Europe insult Europe.

[paul]

Talking of socialists I thought François Hollande was very ungracious in pointing out with little enthusiasm Obama was only president of the US and not the world.
Once again Bayrou was much more effective.

[The new O-Day]

Born and Live in the USA doesn't represent most of us in the USA. George Bush came no where close to the victory that Barak Obama won, 349 electoral votes last night. Barak needed 270 to win, no question of who won at all, it was a landslide of electoral votes. The grand old party ways of thinking like we've seen in the past eight years just couldn't get fear to win over hope. The world won last night along with America.

[Daniel Strohl]

"You have socialists in France. Tell me, is it a serious disease?" (Mr.Obama)

Yes, it is a rather serious disease, of the nosocomial type. One may get infected already at school, at university, in the press, in some unions, in the civil service and so on. Reality and experience should be the natural antidote, but this has not worked greatly so far ... :)

[Roberto Ruiz]

Just remember: America is not only the USA. America is a continent that includes all countries from Canada to Argentina and Chile.

[Jennifer in Oregon]

Please remember that half of us did NOT vote for Bush, in either election! We are just as baffled as to how he got elected, which makes this election all the more sweet and victorious! I am proud to be an American again!

[SoCal Mama]

I remember being escorted through the Paris airport with my son's U.S. high school band/orchestra en route during their European tour, Spring 2004. There had just been anti-American riots and the Euro-based tour staff and airlines were fearful for the safety of the kids. I remember audience members walking out of their performances when "America the Beautiful" was sung (the band director removed that item from the program after that) What a wonderful change! No more cowboy diplomacy.

[Jake]

"guilty by association", Chris Divine? If you voted for Bush, entirely rightly so.

If you voted for Gore or Kerry, I wouldn't hold you as culpable, but then again the "democracy" practised in the US doesn't hasn't helped anyone much over the last 8 years.

[Ed Ryan]

If I knew the French loved Obama so much, I never would have voted for him. Someday maybe the French can restore American faith in them. Until then, I'll think of them as ungrateful cowards, who had the nerve to try to reestablish their colonial influence in SE Asia shortly after the Americans and British released them from an occupying force.

[Lena]

It's funny...I doubt a person named Barack Hussein Obama would have a chance of getting a job working in a supermarket in France. I supported Obama, but really, he is a person who internationally appeals more to Africans, Southeast Asians, and Middle Easterners. He shows that America today is less European, more global.

[Leo...]

It seems the DRUDGE Report crowd is back.

Please leave us degenerates (French and other Europeans, sorry Brits, Germans and others that you are lumped with us)enjoy our day.

[Mike in Austin]

People who maintained that this election wasn't about race are now saying how proud they are that a black man was elected. FBO. If that's Obama's only verifiable, subjective credential, then the Democratic party has doomed the USA. I'm ashamed of the way our Party handled this election.

[G. Nwafor]

I was born in Cameroon and now live in California, USA as an American and with very strong ties back home. I have voted in the last five Presidential elections. This win is one for the history books but reminds the world of our common humanity. As an immigrant as was Barack's father, I know my children have a TRUE chance in this land of opportunities. People like Barack come once in a life time. Lets seize the momment and make the best of it. Bonjour !!

[Romain]

Congratulations Azloon

I am so sad Mc Donald won't promote mooseburgers. lol

[Frank]

As an American, I couldn't be more proud of my country. I have traveled to Europe several times and have fallen in love with each country I have visited. I look forward to strengthening our ties with our cousins overseas!

[Niwot]

As a Coloradoan, a state that usually favors Republicans but in which Obama won handily, I'm interested by the comments of Europeans in reaction to Obama's election. Political analysts and voters here agree, Obama won the election because nearly all American voters thinnk George W. Bush is the worst President in American history. If Bush hadn't rigged the vote count in Florida in 2000, he never would have been President. And he played a huge role in causing our (and your) economic problems by spending $10 billion per month in Iraq and Afghanistan. We're all learning the hard way that we -- including our government -- cannot continue to put up with corrupt politicians and spend more than we make. The American people aren't as stupid or ignorant as most of the world thinks we are. We've just been so wealthy and had our own way for so long, we've had difficulty accepting the fact that we must ALWAYS be a good neighbor to our allies and enemies alike throughout the world, especially the free-market capitalist countries in Western Europe.

[Samantha]

Bravo mon pote, Barack!

[Beatrice]

What the Americans did yesterday was the best thing that could happen to this world in crisis. Here in France we don't have much hope in our government and expect the Usa to give us all a little hope in a better future. If only the same could happen here!!
Good luck to Mr Obama and the Usa people.

[orna, ca, usa]

Our beautiful nation, whose people come from every corner of the world, has grown up. We stand truly strong again- one out of many and finally, we come in peace. I am thrilled to be able to take pride in my country again.

[Scott in Ohio]

And France has done such a good job with their riots, Spain with their train bombings, and the UK with their young Islamic problems. Who gives a flying flip what Europe thinks? I live in Germany twice while in the service and it's a beautiful country. But even its courts are allowing Sharia law to take precendence in some instances rather than German law. Please don't tell me that I supposed to accept this to me multi-cultural. Europeans, mind your own business when it comes to our politics. "Born in the USA" was correct when he said that 'almost half of us didn't vote for the dirty Socialist Obama'. He will be President. God help us when he is 'tested' as VP-elect Biden promised and may He help Obama to make the correct choices throughout his term as President. With the Dems in power soon in the Senate, House and the White House, I want to see who the Libs blame when things don't go their way now. This...should be interestig. :)

[Lucy Finsterwald]

To Born and Live in the USA:
Actually, he DID win in a landslide victory, by the measures of the modern American political landscape. What's more, it's been 20 years since any president has won with an over 50% majority vote, and Obama won by 52%.

Given that these numbers are splashed all over the free-world today, and as such are not exactly hard to come by (nor are the headlines describing his landslide victory), the obvious ignorance of your opening line alone does enough to discredit the idiotic and hateful remarks you follow up with about other countries, but just in case, let me be clear:

You do no speak for America. What speaks for America is an election that took place yesterday that told the world that xenophobia and ignorance no longer represents our country.

(PS-- Nice post, CB. Glad I won't have to conceal my American accent next time I'm in Paris again!)

[Chris]

Micheal

"as Russia sharpens it's claws to dig into Eastern Europe...."

A peaceful civilian town is attacked without warning by the Georgian army. Russia, an ally of Ossetia, goes in to help the Ossetians, and expel the Georgions./Milliband/Bush...Russia has invaded Ossettia and must remove their troops.
The Americans plant missiles in the neighbouring country to Russia, Poland. When Russia complains this is somehow turned into "Russian Aggression".
Nothing Russia ever does is put in a positive light. Putin is usually described as some sort of dictator.
And there's the time when Russia put up the Ukraine's gas bill (by only adjusting it to the market value) after years of selling it below price. Of course Russia again was castigated by the West for this.
Question: How would Bush have reacted if the Russians had placed missiles in Norh Mexico?
Why all this Russophilia? Are we being prepared for somethingh?

[rocket]

Ok. I'm on the good post now folks!

France needs a model. It's evident they can't do things for themselves.

Thus the enthousiasme .

They still need the good ahead to dare.

[richard.jones]

@Pete, the best data source for this is the increased American demand for passports they clearly show no interest in anywhere foreign :-)

@Mike D. Sir, You might be right as we see Putin's puppet on a string Medvedev deploy missiles in Kaliningrad, which we all know is a Russian enclave in the EU.

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/europe/article5090077.ece

It will not be an easy deployment: by land is impossible unless they are granted access through Lithuania or Poland; sea deployment is difficult as export from St. Petersbourg without infringing Estonian waters is tricky. Thus air entry is the only possibility and it will have to be by civil aviation craft as military overfly is not agreed.
Anyway, assuming deployment happens before Christmas (I expect Nov 28th), we may have a measure of the US and French relations and an example of Joe (the Mouth ) Biden's apocalyptic presage earlier than we initially thought.

[Lily]

Cartoon:
http://fr.news.yahoo.com/6/20081105/img/pen-l-amerique-d-obama-320e-a47de40abcc1.html

[george luthin]

Intellect, inspriation and grace. The French always have had good taste, but Obama is not about fashion. American's are everyman, everywhere...imperfect, esteem challeged and embarassed about the way much of europe percieves us.

I just read a news item announcing the Russian deployment

'of short-range Iskander surface-to-surface missiles on the borders of the EU states of Poland and Lithuania.'
Russia was deliberately attempting to test Mr Obama's mettle.”

Russia is underestimating the renewed American way, the Baaok Obama way…Obama will engage, but our first response will be with intellect, inspiration and grace, and if America has to put the hammer down, the world will ask us to. But first, we will talk, coax, and engage, and Russia will have to rethink the hard arm strategy. The world is changed, and America is back in it’s citizenship.

[David Powell]

Jay writes, '

There was a lot of resistance to Barak in the States because of the way he was embraced by Europe. An overwhelming majority of Americans do not want our country to resembe Europe in any way. The fact that our President Elect is embraced so warmly by Europeans only strengthens half the US population to be vary wary of him.'

The overwhelming majority of Americans have never even left America so how would they know?

And Michael Moore in 'Hey Dude Where's My Country' quotes many issues on ahich the American population, when polled, seem to want exactly what you say they don't want.

They want a National Health Service, they want gun control, they want reasonable pensions. In Europe these things are taken for granted, in the USA to mention them brings out the right wing neanderthals who inhabit your airwaves and own your press to deprive them of what they can only dream about.

And don't talk to them about holidays; they get really upset.

In fact most American seem to live the American Nightmare while a select few live the American Dream.

Stop knocking Europe, you may think the way we live is called socialism, we think it is called society.

[Toby]

I think it's nice that French love us again. And we, in turn, will smile politely at the French - who don't seem to realize that they haven't mattered much to anyone since 1789.

[JENNIFER IN VEGAS]

"Born in the USA" should rename himself Bitter in the USA. You do not speak for us, but rather the out of touch minority that lost last night. To McCain I must say he took the loss like a gentleman and acknowledged the importance of the event.

Last night we did not just elect the first black president. We elected a human being who is a thinking man's man. He will not embarass us on the world stage with his ignorance. We voted for an end to corporate greed and corporate welfare. We voted for women's rights last night. We voted for someone committed to educating our young, not testing them to death. Most importantly, we voted to bring our boys home from a war that we were lied to about and that we had no business starting in the first place. Obama isn't seen as weak. Weak people are weakminded. That was Bush Mr. Bitter. We now have a man who is bright and articulate and will use his brains rather than his brawn to solve problems. If you are a true American, which I am, you will support your president and wish him God's speed as he tries to undo 8 years of idiocy.

[John B in Philadelphia]

My wife and I have visited France many times, and I love their point-of-view, even when I disagree with their conclusions. I see them as siblings, and many Americans feel the same. As family, we scrutinize each other in order to define ourselves. When once asked directly by a French street vendor, "Bush ou Clinton?", I answered "Clinton", knowing that he simply wanted to gauge my American reaction to the question. No further conversation was necessary.

[JENNIFER IN VEGAS]

"Born in the USA" should rename himself Bitter in the USA. You do not speak for us, but rather the out of touch minority that lost last night. To McCain I must say he took the loss like a gentleman and acknowledged the importance of the event.

Last night we did not just elect the first black president. We elected a human being who is a thinking man's man. He will not embarass us on the world stage with his ignorance. We voted for an end to corporate greed and corporate welfare. We voted for women's rights last night. We voted for someone committed to educating our young, not testing them to death. Most importantly, we voted to bring our boys home from a war that we were lied to about and that we had no business starting in the first place. Obama isn't seen as weak. Weak people are weakminded. That was Bush Mr. Bitter. We now have a man who is bright and articulate and will use his brains rather than his brawn to solve problems. If you are a true American, which I am, you will support your president and wish him God's speed as he tries to undo 8 years of idiocy.

[rocket]

Lily

"How many Americans can afford to travel to Europe after all and know what life is like over here?"

Take away all of the American tourists and we'll hear you Europeans crying.

[ouino1]

To Ed Ryan:

Isn't it surprising that after all this time and finding out the true facts regarding 9/11 that you would still hold contempt for the French. I find they were quite right in what they said to the world and it took guts to do so. We as a world power should welcome opinions from the rest of the world power leaders whether we agree with them or not. To assume we have all the answers, especially in this day and age is both close minded and quite arrogant. That attitude will never succeed and look where it has gotten us. New day, new direction, new goals, new mindset perhaps we can make new positive change with some hard work and friendships.

[Kathy]

Stephanie,
It never ceases to amaze me how citizens of the world look to America for aid and trade in times of crisis, and yet, are so quick to insult us with comments about our lack of intelligence. Perhaps you would have to go through the horror that our people went through on 9/11 to have any kind of understanding in why the majority of Americans re-elected George Bush. You think you know the facts, but what you are getting is what is portrayed by media, Hollywood idiots, and rag magazines. The re-election was a complex issue that can not be summed up in one smug paragraph. If America has become a "joke" to its opponents, it is because of their ignorance, not ours. That being said, this is a new day, and our people are excited and hopeful with the election of Barack Obama as our new President. Even those of us who, for whatever reason - and for me it was a pro-life issue - did not vote for him. If you believe that McCain is another Bush, then again, you lack the facts. McCain has repeatedly voted against his party on many issues. He is far left on many issues, but you must know that since you have all the answers!
As for Obama, I believe in my heart that he will be a capable and great leader, and am among those who will support him in his efforts to lead this nation. Most Americans, regardless of who they voted for, experienced an excitement beyond measure last night because of the historical importance of the event. But make no mistake, many Americans take exception to those who say "we finally got it right"! Perhaps you should look to your own history if you wish to sit in judgement.
And to Jennifer, regarding Americans loving Europe, most Americans have never been to Europe, their only experience is the opinionated crap that comes our way, and I trust that the few who always have something to say, do not speak for the majority.

[Tojam]

To Sylvia...

No, most of us did not vote for him because he is half black. We voted for him because he has a leadership quality greater than anyone we have seen in decades.

He put together the most improbable of victories because of his leadership. He put together a campaign of 3.2 million contributors because he inspires people with hope.

John McCain is a great man. But his skill only lies in reform and military expertise.

We voted for Obama because right now... what we really need is a leader.

[Deb]

Now that all of this is over I am 100% sure that I want the United States to become a complete ISOLATIONIST country. To be liked again simply because a black american was elected is almost like a form of intimidation and completely unfair. Although not perfect the United States has tried to take on problems and dangers most countries refuse to even admit are going on in the world. I have two wonderful sons and all I know is that they will never and I mean NEVER take part in helping Europe or any other part of this world the way their father and grandfathers did. I think the rest of the world should take care of itself, we have given enough only to be insulted in every way possible. I am actually feeling a sense of relief that I no longer care about what the rest of the world does to itself. I care only about my family/country/god, and yes I am not ashamed to say I am a christian and that I live in one of the best countries with the best ideals the world has ever known.

[schnickelfritz]

David Powell - you made me smile when I read your line: "Stop knocking Europe, you may think the way we live is called socialism, we think it is called society." I've used this argument myself, as I never could understand why people equate socialism with communist Russia. It amazed me how often I heard socialism referenced incorrectly in this election...

[Marlene Koenig]

Bush did not win the popular vote in 2000, but he did win the electoral vote. This is what happened in 1876, when Samuel Tilden got the popular vote, but Rutherford B Hayes won the electoral vote, and became the President.
I am one of those millions of white Christians who voted for a black whose father was a Muslim (as stated by the NYTimes.) But I am astonished by how excited Europe is over this election. How many European countries have affirmative action programs for their minorities. In France, what percentage of their minority population serves in government from local to the national scene? How many own businesses?
Yesterday, the USA lived up to its promise ... we are not perfect. We do not claim to be perfect, but we finally remembered we are Americans, we have values, we have a democracy that works, we embrace diversity but we are all Americans. We are finally coming out of that shell-shocked post-9-11 state.
Oh Happy Day!

[Margaret]

Personally, I don't care if France likes us or not! And, just last week Sarkozy said that obama was weak, and immature. Hmmm...odd. This might be historic for more than what you think. I hope you get exactly what you've voted for. Then, in a few years, we'll take this country back and you'll see what America is supposed to be, what it is meant to be.

[peter kinsley www.peterkinsley.com]

It was a 51% and 43% vote, moitie-moitie (the moiety) as in the UK and France, half and half, so because 51% dig the new Pres., 43% DO NOT.
On the Vichy thread I give an example of the Israelis freeing Idi Amin hostages and two Jewish Americans saying to me: "See what our boys did?" and I said yes, but somewhee in Uganda tonight someone will be murdered as a reprisal. An elderly London grandmother from Golders Green was dragged from her hospital bed and beaten to death by Ugandann soldiers.
Somewhere tonight in the Deep South, in the snake-eyed red-neck country of Fanatics, they will be discussing how to assassinate a President...

[Pam in Illinois]

I'm getting a bumper sticker for my car: "1-20-09 THE END OF AN ERROR!"

I've truly been ashamed of my country in the past 8 years as far as the presidential election has gone.

Seeing and hearing about world reaction to Obama has brought tears to my eyes. Thank you Europe (and all the world) for believing in us (US!) again!!!

[thomasine]

azloon, please, could you describe here again your informed lack of appreciation of President Sarkozy. Are you not weary of your own preconceptions?

[Yoman]

France never had problems with America, it had problems with republicans, or more exactly the conservative movement.

The average Frenchman has almost nothing in common with the average conservative American regarding abortion, gun control, healthcare, place of religion etc...
Obviously, we don't like each other much. They call us communists, and we think they are nuts.

[John B in Philadelphia]

To ouino1...

I think what you meant to say was not France's reaction to 9/11, but it's reaction to the Iraq war. And I would completely agree. My support of France was met with hostility, because Bush successfully connected Al Qaeda to Saddam. France was eventually vindicated for it's stance, although it's rarely mentioned. But as Sarkozy pointed out recently, Chirac had made the rift worse by his smug tone, which is yet another aspect to our complex relationship.

[Kathy]

Pam, If you have been so ashamed of your country, perhaps you should live with the French!!!!Oh,never mind....they don't want you either!

[Evan]

It's funny to read from educated people the comments and stereotypes of both Europeans and Americans. It's a sad stereotype of Americans that we don't travel, own passports, or can locate France on a map. As an American, I know none of these people. Polls and interviews can all be conveniently distorted to show whatever view people want. And for a long time, people have wanted to show Americans as self-centered and ignorant people and Europe of course and intelligent, worldly, and giving. Unfortunately, Bush purported these unfortunate stereotypes.

I have traveled to over 25 countries around the world and what saddened me most in my travels during the Bush era was the degree of America-snubbing that occurred by the people I met traveling. Most unfortunately, many of these snubs and insults came from our friends and allies in Canada and Europe. I can't say that it didn't hurt to hear comments and have people want to deride America when I met them in wonderful traveler settings. Most strikingly though were that these people were guilty of the same ignorance they berated Americans for having. How many of them had American friends? How many of them met people of all backgrounds warmly and open mindedly. On more than a few occasions, I had people I had just met at a bar or coffeeshop turn their back on me and/or make disparaging remarks about the US and her citizens. What's most sad is when people confuse politics for people and succumb to stereotypes.

Obama is the change that America has so desperately wanted. He represents a new era for America. I cannot convey the degree of excitement and electricity his election has generated in the US. But no matter what change and promise Obama brings to the presidency and America and the world, people will always stereotype and deride America and her citizens. Let's hope that our new era in America can inspire a new understanding and tolerance in the world as well.

[Nancy]

I work in the library at a small trade school in Dallas. The black students were all thrilled to be voting for Obama. When I questioned them as to why they were voting for him, none could give me sound answers as to their reason. Without saying so, I knew that they were voting for him simply because he was black. I'm sorry, but I feel for the most part that is why Black Americans voted for him. What a reason to elect a president! I pray for my country.

[Jon Jonsson]

As an American why should I care if Europeans love me? Do they worry if Americans love them?

[Matthieu]

Lena
"It's funny...I doubt a person named Barack Hussein Obama would have a chance of getting a job working in a supermarket in France."

It's very easy to call the others racists just because you have now a black president.
Please don't reverse the roles and do not think the election of Barack Obama can erase all what happened in America during the last three centuries

[Lily]

"Take away all of the American tourists and we'll hear you Europeans crying."

rocket -

And how many are they in terms of percentage points of the total US electorate?

[Ranokivio]

Deb
"I am actually feeling a sense of relief that I no longer care about what the rest of the world does to itself. I care only about my family/country/god, and yes I am not ashamed to say I am a christian"

I care about what the rest of the world does to itself and yes, I am not ashamed to say I don't belong to any religion...

Margaret

"Personally, I don't care if France likes us or not! "

No offence but I guess French people don't care if you personally care or not that they like your new president!

"Then, in a few years, we'll take this country back and you'll see what America is supposed to be, what it is meant to be. "

Could you please elaborate? What's the plan?

[Jesse in Colorado]

@Pam

Do not be ashamed of your entire country because of a small group of buffoons. Would you leave your family because of a crazy uncle?

Have faith in your fellow citizens and always take pride in your community. Do what you can to make it better, but remember you are just one person.

I hope President Obama can deliver on all of his promises, but even if he doesn't, he has at lease shown that we can go in a different direction.

I will regard his inauguration with guarded optimism.

[Lex Stevens]

"Perhaps you would have to go through the horror that our people went through on 9/11 to have any kind of understanding in why the majority of Americans re-elected George Bush." -- Kathy

Okay, I'll jump in right here. The truth is Kathy, as horrible as September 11, 2001 was for those people who were directly and indirectly involved, and as frightening as it was for people living in the United States, it is nothing compared to the horror and suffering that the United States has visited on and continues to visit on millions and millions of people throughout the world since the end of WWII.

The fact is that the United States has waged war on innocent people, overthrown democratically elected governments, supported and armed the worst sorts of dictators that modern history has known, and helped to ruthlessly exploit millions of people throughout the world.

Why don't you get off your high horse, toss out your self righteous indignation and self pity, visit a bookstore or library, and learn about the rest of the history of the United States. The history that you are "...getting is what is portrayed by media, Hollywood idiots, and rag magazines."

[Lex Stevens]

I had to share this: my verification key for my last comment was "cccpbs"

[Sandra]

1. French opinion is irrelevant.
2. I pray the US does NOT follow in the footsteps of France.
3. We pay 50% tax in France.
4. Energy (elec., gas, petrol) is 5 times the cost in the US.
5. I could buy a private health insurance plan for a lot less than we pay in French taxes.
6. Chris Divine - good thing you went back home.
7. I think Sarko is full of it.
8. Why do the French always want a piece of the glory??
9. Who really believes we looked to them for tips?
10. You must understand France has been and always will be run by corruption and elitists. Never an ordinary BLACK or Arab French citizen would be elected.
11. Dream on France.

[kevin Kursan]

to SYLVIA.

1. We live in a global world. America has created it by exporting its values and corporations but many americans have not realized globalization means exchange. Not only exports. With new superpowers such as the EU, China, India when one is affected everyone suffers. What does this mean? It means imposing doesn't work anymore, it is the time of negotiations, strategic alliances etc..1- Obama is well educated for this type of job. He fits in. Mac Cain, for whom i have total respect did not. 2- The world leaders like him. well that's not a bad start! 3- He brings together hope and energy to the FUTURE of America. What is the future of America: it's youth. Watch your tv, all those kids are proud to be american, they want to be better educated, they are TRANSFORMED. On top of that he eclipses the boundaries of races. Well don't tell me that Mc Cain could do that, especially in a world talking to each other has never been so key to solve problems. The rest of it, ie Russia invading Europe is just non sense or old fashioned ideology. We live in a new world. the world of new medias, green technology, hi speed trading exchanges, multilingualism multi-culturalism. I think the US was going to the wall frankly - and it went very close - look at your deficit.
President Obama is going to sort you out. You don't realize the luck you have. You will very soon.

[Nick]

If I knew the French loved Obama so much, I never would have voted for him. Posted by: Ed Ryan

I think it's nice that French love us again. And we, in turn, will smile politely at the French - who don't seem to realize that they haven't mattered much to anyone since 1789.
Posted by: Toby

Attitudes like those have just been consigned to history, and I don’t mean dislike of the French, but disdain of foreigners in general.

It will be nice to work with an administration that might disagree with Europe, but hopefully express disagreement in a civilised fashion.

Ed and Toby, you just don’t seem to get it, your way of thinking has been rejected.

[John Gregory Flinn]

"It was a 51% and 43% vote, moitie-moitie (the moiety) as in the UK and France, half and half, so because 51% dig the new Pres., 43% DO NOT."

Actually PK, it was closer than that - more like 52% Obama to 47% McCain.
Which all seems academic and, maybe a little churlish except that the Deep South you quote, with perhaps one exception, voted solidly against Obama.
Also, interviews I saw with voters against Obama said they were afraid of him.
What are they afraid of?

Anyway, Charles' very urbane report probably reflects much of 'le bonheur' felt in France for the US and Obama's success - mine included.

[Tim in Milwaukee, WI, USA!!!!]

"Keep in mind it wasn't a landslide victory for Mr. Obama. As far as Europe is concerned, most of here still think France is world joke, the UK is a basket case, Germany is sinking, and Italy.... well what can you say."

Hey BORN & LIVE IN THE USA...it WAS a landslide victory, and you are a poor loser and a fool. Sorry your pathetic candidate lost, but given the Bush years, what did you expect? Your precious Republican party is dying in its current form, just accept it. This was not just a victory for America and the world, it was a defeat of common sense over ideology, of diversity over bigotry, of intelligence over ignorance. Please crawl back under your rock, turn on Sean Hannity, and keep your hate to yourself. A new day has arrived, and Americans can once again be proud of their country!!!

[kevin Kursan]

to DEB. Europe loves America. It hated its arrogant Bush policies, that's all. We have not forgotten what America has done for us, and never will. This has nothing to do with the election of a young and charismatic president with a vision. What your party needs to understand is that your ideas are old fashioned, that is all. You can be a christian and modern! What you can't be is a christian and bringing spreading fear (about Obama indeed..) to get your point out. That's what the Republican campaign was about, even some republicans don't deny it. And what a strategic and nonsense mystake!

[Monique]

I think Europe will be horribly disillusioned with the election of Barack Obama. He is a master at playing audiences and what Obama says and what Obama does are two different things. Change was the cornerstone of Obama's election and he has hired Rahm Emanuel as his Chief of Staff, who happened to be a top political advisor to President Bill Clinton. There is much speculation that Obama will be filling his administration with a lot of former Clinton people. This gives the Clintons a chance to gloat, indulge their delusional narcissism, as well as extend Bill Clinton's presidency beyond two terms.

[Maureen Downs]

Dave Powell: Another smarmy European who thinks he can lump 300 MILLION people together. No, most Americans certainly do NOT live the "American nightmare". I am a Democrat who is thrilled with Obama's election - but the ridiculous know-it-all, condescending comments from people like you are the reason that some Americans want to isolate themselves. I have been to Europe three times - you should pay attention to your own problems instead of pontificating about ours. You have plenty, after all.

[vsmith]

Folks, didn't most of the american lineaage come from europe? why such European bashing?

[richard.jones]

I'm sorry to say that I believe Mr. Kinsley, at the end of all that purple prose may well have issued a horrible truth.
I would also say to Kay, which she's not gonna like, that for many elderly Europeans and for some younger one's in the Balkans, 9/11 is a skirmish. She should not be surprised at what may appear to be European disengagement here.
Nevertheless she is right when she says we call on America when we need 'global' help but then who wouldn't call on an uncle who has an army which according to Jane's (a black lesbian publication about armaments and armies), has more military power than the next 22 military powers in the world put together, and a country that has 6.1 million kilometers of land and 320 million people. This is 4 times Europe's most populous nation (Germany) and 12 times France in area. US generosity has been returned more often than Kay might think as well, notably against Japan in WW2 and in the ensuing Korean engagement. Europe and the USA are the most similar communities on the planet in terms of attitude, culture and ideology and this is growing truer with immigration and 'globalisation'. They need to try and get on for each other's sake or neither will survive in their present (or better)into the next century.

[Dave in Oregon]

If you have lived in America as a citizen and are ashamed, try to travel to other parts of the world and see where things are better. I have done so, and am proud to be an American. One cannot always be proud of what the country does, but that doesn't take away from what we are to most of the rest of the free world.

Obama can bask in his success; well done! But look, the Russians are already starting to move, and we have a weakened Europe who cannot, or will not respond. Let's watch the lines on the map change once again.

J'adore la France, and have visited many times. I also have seen much of the rest of Europe, the south Pacific, Asia and virtually all of the USA. In 50 years of living, I have voted for Clinton and Bush. So far, we're still here and still alive. And Europe has more freedoms now than it did 75 years ago, thanks to the support of America.

So let's stand together again, and not bash what was or ask why. Americans can ask the same questions why Europe voted for this or that. It's a pointless argument. We have to work with what is in front of us, which changes every day.

Spewing vitriol on these message boards won't get it done. And now I am off my soapbox, knowing what a worthless effort it was to post here....

[rastaman]

Hey Pam in Illinois: If you are ashamed of the USA maybe you should try Russia for a while. Or anywhere else.

[valerie]

I personally do not CARE what Europe or other countries think of the USA. And Americans should not either. Do they care what we think of them? Of their leaders? No.

(And, ruiz, no America is NOT the whole of the North and South American continents. Get over it.)

You won't see the American Right denigrating obama for the next 4 years, the way the American Left and European Left have Pres Bush for the last 8. You won't see Conservatives calling obama a chimp, or an idiot or hitler. That behavior comes from the Left. Why is that, I wonder...

What obama will have the benefit of is a predominately Leftist American and world press licking his...boots, no matter what he does. For a while, at least. Until he has to get his cojones out and do something, egads, to protect America.

Favorable press that a Republican president does not get, btw, only because he is of the Right.

That type of fawning from the press is unfair and, in obama's case, more than unwarranted.

What has he ever done to deserve all the boot-licking? Not much except promote himself for higher office every time he got elected. I fully expect him now to start running for Master of the Universe. And I only say that with the tip of my tongue in my cheek.

And, no, obama didn't overcome some huge racist obstacle to get elected. That's hogwash. His lovely church in Chicago spouts more racists rhetoric in one Sunday sermon than anything obama got while running for president. Give me a break.

It's all fine and dandy to elect a ''first'' but America needed to elect the best candidate for the job of taking care of America and Americans. Did that happen? We have no choice now but to wait and see.

[Francois D]

I think that French are happy with Obama election (73% would vote for him). They see the historic nature of this election but are especially pleased with Bush departure , whose 8 years have been a disaster.
I wish good luck to Obama.
About French, my compatriots, they applaud Obama, but I am not sure that they should vote for a President issued from the suburbs.

[Dante]

Barack Obama's election proves that racism is very much alive and well in America.

It is burning brightly in the estimated 90% of African American voters who selected Obama as their President solely because he is black.

It is alive in all of the black actors and preachers who warned of violence if Obama wasn't placed upon the throne they assumed was his birthright.

Racism is alive, because it has never been opposed in its latest host - the so-called non-white "minorities".

[History Man from Second Rome]

I strongly think that Obama, a man with difficult childhood, will be one of the the most hawkish and bloodthirsty president in US history. He may even make use the Clinton-era developed rogue-state nukes. McCain would have been much less dangerous with a hostile parliament. But, in general, these are typical change-of guard dramas of declining empires. Sadly, this great construct is destined to a violent decline and fall in the 21st century because it will not be able to implement expantion, on which it is built upon.

[Marie]

The US give us all good conscience...We all like to dream,especially in a middle of a financial crisis,especially after 09/11....
and Obama is a dream man !Perfect movie subject.
Let see and wait the results he will pull.Him or Mc Cain,the situation is very difficult,and none of them are superman.
Hillary should have gone there.
But seem America is not ready for a woman as President.

[Marie]

The US give us all good conscience...We all like to dream,especially in a middle of a financial crisis,especially after 09/11....
and Obama is a dream man !Perfect movie subject.
Let see and wait the results he will pull.Him or Mc Cain,the situation is very difficult,and none of them are superman.
Hillary should have gone there.
But seem America is not ready for a woman as President.

[AGobbler]

Every nation that criticizes and denigrates us so ferociously defends their own sovereignty. But when it comes to ours, our own people want to destroy it; make us some sort of terminal for all the people of the world to wander in and out of. It's part of the lunacy that elected a president like it was a high school popularity contest without consideration for experience or qualification. The people of the U.S. are spoiled rotten and it is going to take some very hard and dangerous experience to temper them enough to deserve and appreciate living here.

[estevan carlos benson]

They warn of disappointment and failure but in many ways, that's a part of any relationship. We shouldn't allow ourselves to remain so damaged and distrustful towards one another. There will always be disappointment but there is still only one community we all belong to.

[Lex Stevens]

"You won't see the American Right denigrating obama for the next 4 years, the way the American Left and European Left have Pres Bush for the last 8. You won't see Conservatives calling obama a chimp, or an idiot or hitler. That behavior comes from the Left." -- Valerie

If I didn't know better, I would say that Valeire had never been to the United States, much less lived here her entire life.

A Jewish friend of mine jokingly defines anti-semitism as an irrational hatred of Jews. Follwing that logic, what is passing for "not racism" must be only the garden varity kind of hatred.

She is living in her own petite Trianon.

[RUSS]

since when have we cared what France thinks of America?

France can suck Barack all they want, but know this. There is no way in hell that America is going to let this freak'in Islamist Marxist sleeper from Kenyan turn our country into a rat hole like France.

[Blendi Progri]

I was gonna pass-by just continue mah walk, but then again though nah ah aint gonna miss all this fun.

'sitting down'

[Rex in Florida, USA]

Congratulations to Barack Hussein Obama for his feat in becoming the first Arab-American to be the President of these United States. Perhaps with his victory, it will help bridge the gap in racism and defeat that forever.

We all need to remain vigilant to those extremists in the world that wish to see non-Muslim faiths exterminated.

At this moment, another regime is seeking world domination, again. Russia is moving her missiles and navy towards Poland.

Rejoice, but keep a watchful eye.

[kamden1130]

I am also Born and live in the USA, actually in Chicago. Being around this campaign and this victory has been amazing. The Republicans can be bitter, that is their right as a people who have lost. I have had a front seat to Sen. Obama. I have voted for him to represent me as a Congressman (which he lost) and as my Senator. He has been a public figure in Chicago for many years and is respected very much here. That respect and admiration allowed him to proceed and move forward to the highest position in America. And I am so glad that I was there to see it. But remember, the world is our stage and Barack Obama will be our leader and he will do what has to be done, to make America what it once was...pre Bush. Americans respect and admire those living in Europe/Asia/Africa. We hope this will bring us respect again. Also note that Mr "Born and live in America" does not represent many people here in America, just the bitter Republicans (and they will only allow a white male to represent them).

[Eileen Stewart]

To the person who insulted people in the "deep,snake-ridden south,red-neck region" etc scheming to assassinate Mr.Obama-Have you ever visited the southern region of the United States? I live in the southeastern atlantic region of the United States-it's a beautiful region in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains-where BMW decided to locate their first American Factory. Yesterday I waited in line to vote for one hour and twenty minutes and had a very pleasant wait-I am a republican but actually had friendly conversations with other people around me who I am certain were democrats. That's what America is all about-we can disagree politically but we don't have to be ugly and uncivil towards one another. My party lost-I wish Mr. Obama all the best and hope our country is better for his leadership in the next four years. I don't consider myself a cartoon character or a redneck-I am a college graduate,mother and wife and I am a Registered Nurse-what part of that screams redneck?