Control of nations doesn't have to be overtly implemented or even solitary. Ever hear of neocolonialism? When we invaded Iraq and Afghanistan we installed governments that were more in keeping with American interests than those that were there previously. Both Iraq and Afghanistan have important roles in the global market. Opium poppies in Afghanistan (used in the making of pharmeceuticals) and oil in Iraq. It is in US national interests to ensure that those markets are open to Western capatalists.

And also, theres the issue of Guantanamo. some in our current administration believe that the US has the right to imprison and even torture foreign nationals without charging them with any offense and without giving them legal representation.

Barack's record is on par with other beginning senators, there really isn't that much a senator can do in a single term. Its not fair to compare his accomplishments with those of someone who has been in congress for 30+ years.

He's not my first choice, I would have perferred Dennis Kucinich but he's way too far left for middle America. Hopefully Barack will pick John Edwards as his running mate. The vice president is really just as important as the president because of the VP's role in the senate.