"    Obama is popular because of his charisma, and also because of his policies.

Barack Obama's trip in Europe went very well. In France particularly, he is more popular than President Sarkozy. For many here, he is practically considered the leader of the opposition, which has become so feeble in terms of ideas and leadership.

The policies Mr. Obama has implemented since his election are an alternative to Mr. Sarkozy's policies, which are perceived here as being too favorable to the wealthy. The reaction to President Obama is a resumption of a love relationship, which existed during the Clinton presidency and was interrupted during George W. Bush's time in the White House. The fact is (some Americans may find this difficult to believe) the French like Americans, and have for a long time. Most just didn't like Mr. Bush.


Still, Barack Obama's popularity goes well beyond that of Bill Clinton's. Bill Clinton was popular because of his charisma, not for his policies. Mr. Obama is popular because of his charisma, his way of speaking to the citizens of the world — but also because of his policies, because of the way he is grappling with the financial and economic crisis.

The extent of the current crisis (and the reorganization of the world financial system it will imply), its consequences (a huge rise in unemployment) and its context (an environmental revolution) together might well lead to the abolishing of the old divisions between a social democrat Europe and a free-market America.

Solutions to this world crisis will need common innovative policies, solidarity, but above all an intellectual frame (or script), which Barack Obama started to deliver during his trip. " (NYT, by a French columnist)