Why did America elect Barack Obama as President in 2008?

Answer 1

In 2008, the country was ready for a change. Both President Bush and the War in Iraq had become increasingly unpopular, the economy was failing, and the Republican brand was tarnished by several scandals, including Republican members of congress being indicted or going to jail for corruption. The Republican candidate, John McCain, though a decent man, was perceived as too close to the failed Bush policies. Barack Obama was perceived as someone new and someone who would take the country in a different (and hopefully better) direction. His candidacy was also greeted with enthusiasm by young voters (Mr. Obama was much younger than Mr. McCain) and minorities voters (who were excited about the possibility of the first black president). In the end, Barack Obama scored a decisive victory over John McCain and became president.