I watched bits of the Clinton-Obama debate that aired tonight and it occurred to me that one of the things Obama does effectively is talk on the meta-level about his campaign. For example, he often says, “I wouldn’t be running for President if I didn’t think ____.” He also talks about how his campaign itself has proved his ability to inspire people. Talking on this meta-level makes him more believable in my eyes – it’s an invitation to “imagine if you were him” to see why, if you were him, you would do what you are claiming.
I also just have to put it out there that it’s much more fun to listen to Obama than to Clinton. Clinton makes me anxious. Obama makes me relaxed. I don’t think this has much to do with whether they will make good presidents, but I’m certainly more likely to listen to them on the radio/podcast if it’s a pleasant experience.