(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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This is the best news I have heard since Barack Obama became the democratic nominee.
I Respect Colin Powell. He has always tried to put his country first. His backing of Obama was the right thing to do. Thank you Gen. Powell.
Awesome!!!!! I respect Mr. Powell so much for stepping out and taking a stanz in reference to the world and RNC.
Obama/Biden 08/12
That is awsomeeeee....almostthere OBAMA and BIDEN 2008
hahahhah!
that's what u get for being negative... mcpalin
Thank you, General Powell...
YES!!!
A voice of reason.
Vote Early Vote Early Vote Early!!!!
I think Colin's endorcement shows more of the "PALIN EFFECT" I agree with everything that he has said...Good job!
On the bridge to nowhere has Gov Sara Pallin or any relative or pardner in business have any interest on the road alone to the bridge to nowhere such property or land
It's too bad Powell sold his sole and credibility to Bush. The endorsement means little or nothing st this point.
AWESOME!
Good. All intelligent Republicans are jumping ship. The Republican party now contains the unintelligent.
Whoop dee doo!
I have been leaning toward McCain, but I really respect Powell, and his endorsement of Obama leaves me even more undecided. I'll be one of the voters making up their minds in the voting booth.
YES WE CAN! GO COLIN, GO!!!!
OBAMA/BIDEN '08
This is EXCELLENT!!!! I always like him "despite" our difference in views. I'm glad he stood up for what he thought was right!!!
"A MAN OF HONOR"!!!!!
I am so happy I'm crying!
It's a great day to be alive!!!!!!!
Thank you Mr. Powell!!!!!
Wisdom is the accurate recognition of the obvious..........
This endorsement ends Barack Obama "ready to lead" argument!! Colin Powell is a true American Hero and will swing plenty of independent voters!!
Obama/Biden 08"
Excellent, and about time! Powell should be part of Obama's administration. Like Secretary of Defense.
this is a great day for the obama campaign first we find out we raised 150.000.000 and now this
Go Obama!
Wow, This endorsement brought tears to my eyes.
Thank Colin Powell.
Great!!! More proof Mc Shame is no good for this Country. Obama ROCKS!
God bless you Powell!!!