As a feminist in my late-30's (and a huge HC admirer), I've dreamed and speculated about the first female president for years. The qualities she would bring to the office--strong listening and facilitative skills. A toughness that doesn't require bullying. Creativity when it comes to problem-solving. The ability to put the greater good (the "we") ahead of "I" in the national/international political scene.

I've backed Barack Obama because he exemplifies these leadership qualities even more so than Hillary Clinton. He's shown that playing hardball doesn't require doing it like the "good old boys" that we as feminists are still working to discredit. Strategies and tactics of the past don't have to be a part of our future--and that's good for men, women, boys and girls alike.

The truly transformative leadership style of Obama will benefit women for generations to come and pave the way for a female president who doesn't have to change her own style to win. It's time for we as feminists to rally around the candidate who possesses the qualities and leadership skills that we value--whether it's a woman or a man who demonstrate them.

Well said! I couldn't agree more.

I'm surprised that we're actually being asked to decide between a gender we approve of and a leadership style we approve of. This country is suffering from some very serious illnesses right now, among them a seemingly endless war, an aging population in need of medical care, an economy that is in the first stages of a very long downturn, and a currency devaluation that's creating rapid inflation. Obviously, gender is not going to be a significant factor in how these things play out. If Hilary had the kind of leadership style that this country needs right now, she would be the nominee. I have a great deal of admiration for HC and I'm glad that she ran a hell of a race and showed the world it could be done. I hope she sticks to her guns and fights for all the things she said she would by organizing her supporters to vote democrat and continue their mobilization campaigns.