Okay, I have to admit, I didn’t watch any of the Democratic National Convention. I just didn’t think that I could palate any of the rhetoric they are famous for. Actually, I was pretty immersed in watching several DVDs that I had on my list to watch.
But for some strange reason, I find myself with no DVDs and extra time to watch the Repbulican National Convention. So, last night I listened th President Bush, Fred Thompson, and Joe Lieberman.
President Bush was mediocre. He really isn’t a great speaker. And I can’t remember much about what he said. I actually remember more from Laura Bushes interview on NBC that I do from President Bush’s speech.
However, the real heart of last night’s speeches were the talks by Fred Thompson and Joe Lieberman. If it were a competition for best speech my award would be given to Fred Thompson. He very respectfully told the story of John McCain’s service to our country and set up his character.
The best line from Thompson talk, and for the whole televised evening was this: “Now, being a POW certainly doesn’t qualify anyone to be president, but it does reveal character. My friends — (cheers, applause) — this is the kind of character that civilizations from the beginning of our history have sought in their leaders — (cheers, applause) — strength, courage, humility, wisdom, duty, honor.”
While I am somewhat bothered by what appears to be the over emphasis on McCain’s POW experience, Thompson set it up in a way of reverence and respect, that I couldn’t help but open up and try and understand who McCain is. While I couldn’t help but look at Thompson and wish that he were the nominee because of his eloquence and his political ideals, he sold the McCain bill very well.
Lieberman was a great follow up. He talked about how the best vote isn’t down party lines, but for what is right for America. This poses a great question, and something that we need to ask ourselves every election. I wonder what we would say if it were the other side saying it about our nominee.
I don’t agree with a lot of the political views of Lieberman, but I enjoyed his speech very much. He didn’t do a great job at convincing me that McCain is my president, but I feel that he might have done a good job for the independent voter who hasn’t made up her mind.
Overall, it was a good night. I am glad that I had the time to watch it. I am excited to here Sarah Palin’s talk tonight. I have seen her speak when she was selected as McCain running mate, and I was very impressed. I suspect that she will do likewise today.
Gazelem 