Thanks

To the New York Times, in their endorsement, for acknowledging that while this election is to a large degree a referendum on Bush's tenure, Kerry is "better than a modest improvement" and could actually be a great leader.

We have been impressed with Mr. Kerry's wide knowledge and clear thinking - something that became more apparent once he was reined in by that two-minute debate light. He is blessedly willing to re-evaluate decisions when conditions change. And while Mr. Kerry's service in Vietnam was first over-promoted and then over-pilloried, his entire life has been devoted to public service, from the war to a series of elected offices. He strikes us, above all, as a man with a strong moral core.

(emphasis mine) This is my impression too. I think Kerry might actually have the capability to return the country to civil debate about the issues that face us, a nontrivial gift in light of the bitter divisions and deaf partisanship that seems to have taken hold, from Congress down to our very neighborhoods. I'd sure like to give him the chance.