One of the best things about a good meal is that people of all kinds: ages, genders, races, and (yes) political philosophies can sit down and enjoy it together – savoring and appreciating it and, for a while, forgetting their differences. A meal is the ultimate kind of barrier-breaker, and especially when the food is delicious, it’s very hard not to feel a general sense of well-being and warmth, if not, perhaps, affection, for your fellow diners. And, so you might be forgiven for thinking that food is an a-political topic. Think again.

Far be it for us to begin espousing the virtues of organic farming, and/or slow, local foods, as that would be, at least in part, hypocritical, given that our diets have a significant globalized component to them. However, we are more than delighted at the Obama/Biden victory in the recent election and have high hopes for huge improvements across the board come January. Among these hopes are progressive initiatives on behalf of the new administration in renewable energy and sustainable food and agriculture, rather than the current status quo which has seen oil company lobbyists stonewall the former and the farm lobby block the latter. And it seems we’re not alone.

Check out this recent article from The Gristmill in which author Michael Pollan (The Omnivores Dilemma, In Defense of Food) and other food advocates describe what they think the Obama administration should do to advance the cause of sustainable food and agriculture in this country. It’s quite thought-provoking.

And, of course, let us know what you would have Obama do for your dinner.