In response to Philip Cunningham's Nov. 13 article, "Yes we can . . . what, Mr. Obama?": I can only wonder what Cunningham's point is. The article is littered with unfounded assumptions and loose suppositions lambasting U.S. President-elect Barack Obama for his incredible oratory skills and his choice for White House chief of staff. Yet, the piece's title implies something completely different.

As for Obama's oratory skills — thank God the United States finally has someone in office who can string a coherent sentence together. Why would anyone begrudge Obama for that is beyond me. It's clear that Cunningham has a problem with Rahm Emanuel and his politics, but what does that have to with the kind of job he will do as chief of staff? Isn't it better for Obama to hire someone who will challenge him, rather than someone who will simply be his lackey?

Emanuel, like Vice President-elect Joe Biden, is there because he is very different in style from Obama. These professional and personal differences will give the office the depth and perspective it has lacked the last eight years. And it will philosophically open the office up to change and new ideas. I hope Obama continues to make appointments in this open-minded manner, and keeps giving great speeches.

barry vucsko