(CNN) – Former Secretary of State Colin Powell announced Sunday that he will be voting for Sen. Barack Obama, citing the Democrat's "ability to inspire" and the "inclusive nature of his campaign."
"I think he is a transformational figure, he is a new generation coming onto the world stage, onto the American stage, and for that reason I'll be voting for Sen. Barack Obama," Powell said on NBC's "Meet the Press."
Powell said he was concerned about what he characterized as a recent negative turn of Republican candidate Sen. John McCain's campaign, such as the campaign's attempts to tie Obama to former 1960s radical Bill Ayers.
Powell, a retired U.S. general and a Republican, was once seen as a possible presidential candidate himself.
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Powell is the man! Watch W. guys, you'll know...
this has shown clearly why Obama is the right choice, even the Republican have started to realize that.
I'd like to see Powell back in the president's cabinet once again.
Well said Mr. Powell.
He didn't just endorse Obama but he gave specifics as to how he came to his decision. This is something everyone should do.
This is GREAT!
Wow, this is HUGE. What this great man said was exactly the truth. about Obama.
that is awesome! Go Obama!
Collin Powell thanks for endorsing this inspired leader that america needs at this point in history. May God bless you.
Holding his cards close until there is a likely winner. Looks to me like he is hoping for a position in the new cabinet in a too little too late move.
When one of the most intelligent Republicans endorses Obama, the country should listen.
Obama/Biden08
Any intelligient person would vote for Obama over clueless McBush any given day!!
Probably this country's foremost statesman and leader. He was very eloquent on 'Meet the Press.'
What Powell said about muslims is absolutely correct. There are muslims fighting and dying for our country and they deserve the same respect as any other american.
On Larry King Live it was said that this shows Obama's bi-partisan message. Actually, this is more like racist approach to this election by one group of people.
way to go!
Colin Powell's endorsement for Obama comes as no surprise. Any clear thinking objective person can see that Obama has the temperament and GAINED experience throughout this campaign to lead this country back to prosperity and restore America's image around the world.
Spot on!!!
Go Obama!
This endorsement is huge! Just one more slap in the face of John Mccain and his flailing campaign.
This should move many of the undecided to Obama.
Can you say Maverick. This is a great man who struggled with this decision.This is what a true Maverick does, they make decisions that are not popular. Thank you Secretary of State. I know he made the right choice.
Good for you, General Powell. I agree with your rationale, and I'm glad to see you make the right decision.
Obama-Biden for America
Well done, General Powell.
heheh, that picture says it all.
Thank you Gen. Powell for making such a thoughtful and wise choice of Obama for president. I trully wish Colin Powell was running for president. He is truly a great man. I am a Democrat but would gladly vote for him.
Obama '08
thank you, thank you, thank you. a true, respected republican.
OBAMA/BIDEN '08