WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The 2008 presidential election is slightly less than two years away, but the Chicago Tribune has already picked its candidate to succeed President Bush -- Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois.

"When a leader evokes the enthusiasm that Obama does, he should recognize that he has something special to offer, not in 2012 or 2016, but right now," the Tribune editorial states.

The Tribune argues no other presidential aspirant -- Democrat or Republican -- can unite Americans behind a hopeful message.

"No one else has shown a comparable talent for appealing to the centrist instincts of the American people--instincts that often go unsatisfied as each party labors to rally its most uncompromising factions," the editorial states. "After the divisive events of the last decade, the nation may be ready for a voice that celebrates our common values instead of exaggerating our differences."

Obama, who has said he will decide shortly on a presidential run, heads to New Hampshire this weekend to celebrate midterm victories with key Granite State Democrats.