Congressman Artur Davis (D-Ala.) has been named one of “Five Democrats to Watch” by Time magazine.

When I went to Thursday’s Jeff State constitutional issues forum, it was simple to see why Davis has created so much buzz.

The man was sensational. He spoke clearly and simply about issues such as the electoral college, religious freedom, the right to bear arms and illegal search and seizure.

When he explained that the electoral college is necessary in order to keep small states relevant in presidential elections, I was floored.

I’d never looked at the issue that way — in fact, I’d always been one to believe that the popular vote should elect presidents. With a clear explanation, Davis changed my way of thinking.

I’d say there’s a good chance he introduced new ideas to some of the other 300-odd forum attendees as well.

Davis came across as genuine and intelligent, able to talk honestly with the crowd without being patronizing.

He also seemed like someone who could bridge the partisan divide as he spoke about how politicians can — and should — allow their faith to guide them.

There’s talk that Davis may be a candidate for the governorship in 2010 — after what I saw the other day, he might be exactly what this state needs.