Barack Obama represents a singularity rarely seen in the arena of American politics. In addition to a refreshing message of change, Obama has successfully invigorated a traditionally apathetic demographic group — young voters between 18 and 29 years of age.

In some states, young voters such as myself have turned out in numbers two or three times as high as those reported in the 2000 or 2004 primary seasons. Sen. Obama has become our candidate — one who has the ability to inspire, the will to lead, and the courage to change the country.

These same young voters — my generation — will be absolutely essential to defeating John McCain in November. The question inevitably arises: How can Obama and the Democratic Party keep young voters energized and motivated heading into the general election?

Although I am not entirely ideologically aligned with either of the major political parties, I recognize the importance of Obama to the future of this country. In a sense, I represent two of the most important groups of swing voters — independents and young Americans. With the country radically polarized after eight years of President Bush's incompetence, appealing to these two demographics is a necessity for Obama.

We are supremely frustrated with typical politics and the failed policies of the Bush administration. And to beat McCain, Obama needs to transcend the negative campaigning that traditionally mars the general election. The outlandish, often factually incorrect charges leveled by radical groups on both sides of the political spectrum fail to contribute to a productive discourse and only serve to further polarize the American public.

I am an Obama supporter because his campaign is inspirational, unique and, above all, positive. Young voters are tired of negative campaigning and are looking for a president with the courage to rise above the storm of pessimism that tarnishes politics. To set himself apart from the usual mudslinging of U.S. politics, Obama is compelled to draw a clear boundary between what is responsible campaigning and what tactics are simply unacceptable and reprehensible. To keep my vote, the Democratic Party and Obama must rise above the maelstrom and provide a positive, optimistic vision for the future.

Obama's efforts to attract young voters rests upon the senator's inspirational speeches and powerful charisma. In fact, I was first drawn to the Obama campaign because of Obama's extraordinary oratorical talent. In the mind of the young voter, Obama's speeches rank among the masterpieces of Kennedy, Darrow, Bryant and Roosevelt.

Generations X and Y understand the important role of the U.S. president as leader of the free world. They also comprehend that the president is expected to portray exceptional character and have the ability to motivate and unite. While Sen. McCain is an honorable man and a national hero, his relative lack of oratorical skills and persistent support of the disastrous Iraq war have virtually eliminated his chance to unite either the United States or the world.

My faith in the American dream and the ideals of this great nation have been reaffirmed by Obama's candidacy. And to defeat McCain in November, it is imperative that Obama continue to advocate real change and avoid divisive and overly critical words.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, Obama must clearly explain the stark differences between himself and McCain. I understand, along with millions of other first-time voters, that elections are just the beginning; although the media frenzy may subside after the president-elect is announced, his decisions will forge the nation's future for at least four years.

Obama and the Democratic Party must illuminate exactly what McCain stands for — a third Bush term in all but name. McCain's economic, foreign, and diplomatic stances are strikingly similar to those of President Bush: He supports trade policies that have cost countless American jobs, absurd tax propositions, a disastrous war which he believes could last for "100 years" and unnecessarily belligerent rhetoric. McCain's campaign is riddled with lobbyists, who subvert the will of the American people and make a mockery of the "Straight-Talk Express."

While I may not agree with all of his politics, Obama is the candidate who understands and cares about the concerns of my generation. This realization, along with a comprehensive review of McCain's policies, should inspire young voters across the political spectrum.

Obama is a rare chance to unite the nation, inspire the public, and forge a positive path into the future. He has already won my vote, but to win young voters and the White House, he must continue to transcend the boundaries of partisanship and inspire America one more time.

Christopher A. Ballesteros is a former member of The Advertiser's Teen Editorial Board and was Damien Memorial High School's 2008 valedictorian. He plans to attend Harvard University in the fall and pursue a career in national politics. He wrote this commentary for The Advertiser.