Europe ‘ecstatic’ over Obama victory
By Global Journalist Staff Posted Nov 10 2008
Europeans eagerly followed the United States presidential election returns in the early morning hours of Nov. 5. For many, President-elect Barack Obama represents a chance to strengthen diplomatic ties that were weakened over the last eight years.
In the eyes of some European citizens, Obama’s achievement also symbolizes the racial equality that certain countries have yet to attain.
Polls in France, for example, show that while more than 90 percent preferred Obama to his opponent, John McCain, respondents doubt a black person could win the French presidency. A Journal de Dimanche survey indicates that half believe a black person could not be a viable candidate in the country despite the fact that 80 percent of the surveyed French electorate say they would vote for a black person.
According to reports in The Independent, Obama’s victory was “received ecstatically” in Germany and France, where his presidency is seen as a sign of hope.
Political figures throughout Europe also commended Obama’s campaign and professed support for the newly elected president.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel gave her “heartfelt congratulations” on the “historic victory” in a message published on the chancellery Web page. Not only did Merkel offer her support in the challenges that lie ahead for the United States’ first African-American president, she also extended a personal invitation for him to visit Germany.
French President Nicolas Sarkozy similarly lauded Obama.
“At a time when we must face huge challenges together, your election has raised enormous hope in France, in Europe and beyond,” Sarkzoy said in his message to the U.S. president-elect.
There were dissenting Italian voices, however, some of which came from Silvio Berlusconi’s People of Freedom Party. Although the statements were later retracted, Senate leader Maurizio Gasparri expressed “serious doubts” about Obama and suggested that al-Qaida would be happier with Obama in the White House. Italian newspaper Libero also ran a front-page headline that translates to “American Rubbish,” in reaction to Obama’s election.
Despite some negativity, Italian citizens as well as political leaders felt the excitement of Obama’s win was comparable to the rest of Europe. Italian President Giorgio Napolitano called Nov. 4 “a great day.”
In the midst of the general continent-wide excitement, some warn that once the gloss wears off, Obama’s presidency will likely bring to the fore fundamental differences between European countries and America, such as trade, climate change and relations with Russia.