The piece tries to match what he sees of the American situation and wants with the nature of the presidential candidates. Worthy views.

Friedman certainly tells the truth. Sparing nothing, he gets down to reality--that much neglected commodity that shows you where you really are and what your options are. Powerfully written and blunt, he still manages a note of optimism. A neat trick.

A powerfully written column based on Friedman's personal observations and discussions with Americans.

I am an Obama supporter, but Friedman's self-serving rhetoric in favor (supposedly) of Obama is almost enough to make me consider changing my mind. He tries to obscure the policy & structural reasons why our economy is not working behind a smokescreen of 'well, Americans just don't value hard work and savings any more.' Sorry, but I know too many people who work hard at two jobs, live frugally, and still can barely make ends meet - let alone save for a house, their kids' college, or retirement.

I guess I like this story because I really agree with his perspective and it's nice to see the media talk about how America is not number 1 in the world anymore. Somehow in the past couple of decades we've slipped to a second class nation and I agree that Americans can understand this.