These are trying times. We are in a war with no clear path to victory. Our dependence on foreign oil has been crippling and the economy has gone from sour to outright putrid. Increasing numbers of financial experts have called the current economic situation the most perilous facing this nation since the Great Depression.

Looking to history, then, might provide insight into how our nation might proceed.

From the depths of the Great Depression came Franklin Delano Roosevelt. In his first 100 days in office, the 50-year-old FDR was able to get Congress to enact sweeping reforms to bolster the nation's farming and business sectors. His calm, steady leadership guided our nation out of the economic dark forest and through a World War.

Which of the two candidates for president, then, seems most reminiscent of FDR and his thoughtful, inspiring style of leadership?

The answer seems clear.

That is why The Daily Item is endorsing Barack Obama for president.

Barack Obama promises a more a timely end to the war in Iraq. He is more lilely to develop an ambitious and meaningful plan to decrease our dependence on foreign oil. Obama also understands that the benefits of tax breaks need not trickle-down. Obama's tax plan would directly help the hard-working, middle-class families that make up most of those in the Central Susquehanna Valley.

There seems to be another reason to think again of FDR. Roosevelt was the only president to use a wheelchair while in office. Roosevelt concealed that distinction from the public. FDR's wheelchair did not prevent him from becoming one of the greatest presidents.

There is no hiding Obama's race or non-European name, a fact that ought not be a consideration for voters, but undoubtably will influence an ignorant few. Obama's race matters less than his leadership abilities. It is those capabilities that make him the candidate most qualified for the office of chief executive at this time and under these circumstances.

Throughout our nation's history, in trying times, America has been fortunate that voters have shown the wisdom to select leaders ready and able to guide our nation forward. In the days leading up to and through the Civil War, it was Abraham Lincoln. During the Great Depression, it was FDR. Ronald Reagan led our nation to conclusion in the Cold War.

Considering the scope of the challenges facing our nation, voters again must make a bold, but wise, choice for president. That choice is Barack Obama.