Obama Wins! Now What?

In a monumental victory on Tuesday night, Barack Obama gained a large majority of the country's votes and became the next president. Many are still celebrating this historic moment in American history, but the important question is, what's next? Obama will be sworn in on January 20, just a few months away. In his first steps into the oval office, Obama will be faced with the daunting mountain of problems left behind by the Bush Administration. Obama has clearly stated his opinions on major foreign policy concerns during his campaign. But once in office, what will actually happen? Here are some key issues the Obama administration needs to tackle.

1) Repair US world image: Following Bush's eight year regime of operating like the unilateral superpower, the US has some repair work to do. With the onslaught of international issues at hand, Obama must mend some old friendships and make some new ones. As noted by the International Herald Tribune, the US "is increasingly seen as a nation in decline, hobbled by hubris and uninspired leadership -- destined, perhaps, to be overtaken by China within a generation." If Obama hopes to make any headway in international affairs, he will have to transform America's image into a leading country one again.

2) Transfer attention from Iraq back to Afghanistan: Obama made his views on Iraq clear during his campaign, but implementing a successful plan for withdrawl in Iraq may prove difficult. The key, though, is that efforts need to be shifted from the media centered conflict in Iraq to the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan. Obama promised to "focus on Afghanistan" but the situation there is currently in a downward spiral. Obama needs to not only commit more troops to the area but also begin discussions with Pakistan to improve policy against al-Qaeda forces.

3) Begin discussions with international leaders: Although he was bitterly attacked by McCain for promising to sit down with Raul Castro and Iran (though maybe not with Ahmadinejad just yet) Obama was right to emphasize the importance of communication. Diplomacy is the only option right now with the increasing number of international concerns each day.