As the autumn season continues on, the air is filled with an energizing chill and the leaves continue to die and fall. The ground is carpeted with reds, yellows, and browns. Every four autumns bring a new election and the Executive Branch sheds its dead leaves, making room for a new administration (sometimes every eight years).

The season’s dropping in temperature from the summer heat is invigorating in the same way a close election such as this one is. As we adjust to changing weather we simultaneously adjust to the idea of a new American leader. One of the most popular words of this election is “Change”. Both candidates have incorporated this loaded word into their campaign rhetoric. Change is a defining feature of the current fall environment. Green leaves change into new, vibrant colors. The shapes of trees and plants change as leaves fall. The temperature changes as we head towards winter. The foods we eat change in accordance with the season’s different harvests. Our wardrobes change to keep us warm. This election will, regardless of who wins, be a radical change in the political makeup of the Executive Branch. I’ve witnessed a huge change in our media, which is a direct result of the changing face of politics and the changing diversity in American citizens. News channels such as CNN have a significantly enhanced and amplified diversity in racial and gendered perspectives. There is now an assorted makeup of news anchors and consultants. The mediator of the Vice Presidential debate was an African American woman! Groundbreaking strives towards equality have been made this year.

There is a fundamental change happening not only in our country, but also on a global scale that is resulting from this year’s election. The excitement and energy generated by this election is revolutionary. The ability of Barack Obama, and Sarah Palin for that matter, to mobilize the people-like a fall gust of wind- in a direction of enthusiasm is one of the defining characteristics of this election. There is a change happening in America that will hopefully rejuvenate the world.

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