The Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama competition has gripped the attention of the world. And for good reason. The result is likely to affect the future course of global politics. A clear victor is not yet decided, but whoever ultimately wins, the shift in consciousness both candidates embody is important to consider. The widespread and continued interest in their dynamic race shows how political attitudes can be rejuvenated and how the impact of powerful countries can be changed for the better.

One sign of change is that voter turnout in America is higher than at any time since 1972 when 18-year-olds got the right to vote. In some states, increases of 30 to 50 percent over 2000 and 2004 show that American voters want to express their opinions. Equally important are the donations, which stand at record numbers. The cash flow is not a worsening of money-based politics, but rather the donations streaming in from people with small pocketbooks show their concerns over the future of the country. People are becoming involved at last.

The race has also gained attention around the world, and not just in Obama, Japan. Every country in the world is paying close attention to the results. This election, unlike any other before, is not just about what happens in America, but what will happen in the world. Politics can no longer be considered simply a local affair, or even just a national one. American politics especially has now become an international affair. Actions taken on everything from subprime mortgages to the Iraq war and energy usage have effects that extend far across national borders. These two candidates know their campaigns are taking place concurrently in local precincts and on the global stage.