BOSTON -- Thank you Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, John McCain and Mitt Romeny. Presidential campaigns this season not only have driven voters to the polls in record numbers, but they have also driven the debate on "isms" in America -- racism, sexism, ageism and also, religious intolerance.

These issues indicate the straining seams in our society: Can an African-American, a woman, a person in his 70s or a Mormon convince voters not only of their electability but they will serve America with the wisdom necessary in a difficult time? As governor of Massachusetts, Romney's religious beliefs did not trouble the majority of voters. On the national stage, unrest bubbled, but the conversation ended with his concession.

Are we really tougher on Clinton because she is a woman? Do we care more about her pantsuits than policies? McCain would be the first president elected in his 70s. How many health checkups must he endure before we declare him fit for duty?

And the most toxic political ism of all, racism, has sparked a firestorm touching all voters --- black, white, male, female, young and old.

This week Senator Obama felt he had to address the elephant in the room. Even at the highest levels -- whether it is a prominent minister or a former vice-presidential candidate --when it comes to the issue of race, Americans harbor beliefs and private hurts that erupted in public.

Let open and constructive debate continue on a festering problem plaguing America -- it's a discussion long overdue.