Largest newspaper in Detroit endorses Obama

The Detroit Free Press endorsed Barack Obama today.  The decision is summed up in the first line of the article, "Good judgment makes good presidents."  The article discusses extensively Obama's basic philosophy and his qualifications for dealing with the some of the most important issues.  The Free Press writes that Obama's economic recovery plan acknowledges the reality of the situation, and that he has proved to be a more sophisticated thinker on foreign policy.  Furthermore, the paper expressed disappointment in McCain's campaign decisions, namely the selection of Sarah Palin for his vice presidential candidate and his impulsiveness on policy matters.  The publication explains its change from previous endorsements.

The Free Press has twice endorsed McCain for the Republican presidential nomination, in 2000 and this year. The McCain running against Obama in this general election has not been the same candidate; he has been nastier, less consistent and, since his acceptance speech at the GOP National Convention, frankly uninspiring.

One writer explains that the decision is truly based on perceptions of good judgement on Obama's part, not shared social and political values.

The Detroit Free Press is the largest newspaper in Detroit, Michigan.  It reaches up to 40% of Detroit adults on Sunday (today, the day of the endorsement).