Irate, it's good to see you in Politics again. You were missed by this Liberal Loon.
You have presented a number of observations that are worthy of discussion. I believe that "Obamania" reported by the press is mostly of their own creation. It is far easier to attract eyeballs for a "cult of personality" story rather than a wonkish study of his policies. I also learned recently that all three campaigns of the frontrunners carefully orchestrate who will be within camera range of the candidate. In Obama's case, there are predominately white faces behind him for the camera to imply broad support, and the very raucus supporters directly in front of him for the enthusiastic cheers. McCain and Clinton do the same for the emphasis they wish to make. Manipulation of voter perception would appear to be Politics 101.
I have an anecdoctal experience that may explain the "swooners". A good friend of mine went to see Obama speak about two years ago. She arrived early and stood in the hot sun without water for two hours before he arrived and began speaking. She dropped like a stone from dehydration and Obama called out to get help to her. I suspect that heat and exhaustion are more the cause of the faintings that have occurred, than an emotional swoon. But once again, the press has a "story" to sell.
I think there may be several things that have given rise to the enthusiastic response to Obama. Others have already described what it feels like to feel hopeful of change in the policies of our government. I think you underestimate the feeling of despair that many citizens have experienced since the premptive war on Iraq and the escalating threats to Iran. I agree with you that Congress and the Judiciary should have been able to check the universal presidency, but don't forget that we had a single party in charge for the majority of the Bush administration.
You have probably heard of Obama being compared to JFK by some of the Kennedy family. That same enthusiastic hope for change existed then, as well. My mother saw something very new and hopeful in JFK after living through the depression and the sacrifices of WWII. I would never underestimate the power of American's who have become optimistic about the future.