Let’s not forget that there were people who thought it was crazy for Senator Obama to run for president: too young and inexperienced, “funny name,” black. He had a lot of things going for him this year–not least the apparent inability of the Clinton camp to master the rules of the Democratic nomination contest–but it is remarkable how few mistakes he made, how disciplined and unflappable he was. I do not agree that running a campaign well is much of a qualification for office, but it is nonetheless impressive. And, of course, the fact that a black man has won the presidency is genuinely thrilling. Now I hope he proves to be more moderate than his record indicates.