And the GOP vice presidential candidate is..... who?!?!?
This announcement was pretty shocking, as much for who it is as for the fact that politics can still shock us.
Not only is the "hey, look ladies, vote for me cuz I picked a girl!" tactic incredibly insulting, but this pick is even more terrifying because Sarah Palin's such a far right conservative that she's practically Mike Huckabee in a dress.
That worries me a lot -- that so much of the attention will be focused on her gender, and what that means as a strategy, or her age (only 11 years older than me!), that we'll lose sight of her ideology. And that's not an ideology we want to ignore, because it's about as conservative as you can get. Not only is she anti-choice, she believes in teaching creationism! she wants to drill in the Alaskan National Wildlife Refuge! She hates polar bears!
Which is worse, the overt pander to women or the sly pander to the extreme wing of the party that McCain needs to win over?
And the problem with pandering is that people do it because it sometimes works.
Obama and Biden better keep hammering home all of the great stuff that came out of this convention, all of the reasons why we need a Democrat in office and can't afford - as a nation, as a society - another 4 years of the Neocon Bush approach. The 527s are already starting to get the word out about Palin's super-conservative stance on the issues, and that can't get lost in the talk about what a risky, "maverick" choice she is. And, Obama better take every opportunity possible to put Hillary out front and center, reminding everyone that it's not about voting for a woman but about voting for the issues that we believe in.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Convention Watch: The Big Night
And there we have it, Barack Obama is now officially our nominee.
I'm not sure why, but I had a little harder time paying attention tonight and just didn't get as much energy from the speeches - perhaps I'm suffering from convention fatigue? Perhaps some of the energy dissipated in that huge stadium crowd? Dunno, but I feel a little bit deflated, cuz I expected the events on stage to be more exciting.
Early Speeches - Alas, I missed out on some of the earlier speeches, only paying enough attention to hear Tim Kaine quote the Bible (not my favorite strategy) and to note that Bill Richardson needs a haircut.
Al Gore - Oh, Al, why weren't you yourself back in 2000?!? If you'd been passionate and funny, instead of just smart and wooden, you just might have made more people like you and it only would've taken a few... But I love ya, Big Guy.
"Real People" Speeches - These folks were great! I loved the recovering Republicans explaining why they're now voting Democrat, and the "Barney Smith - Smith Barney" line was just utterly priceless! Plus, in his intro, Biden seemed a little more rested tonight. His speech last night was good, but he seemed to be in a bit of a daze... looks like he's acclimating to his new Mile-High Life.
And, finally...
Barack Obama - The tribute film was good (Sam Waterston, is that you I hear?), but I wished it had a little more warmth and humor about his life rather than being more about Obama's community organizing. I think the really revealing tribute film for Michelle Obama is what started me out liking her a lot more, cuz hearing her family background and stories from her Mom and brother really softened her image. I think Obama still needs a little humanizing, since most of the "movement" has put him on such a high pedestal.
As for the "Temple of Obama" ? I didn't really get a temple image out of it, but I did see what I heard was one of the ideas... making it look like a government building behind him. But why? It was kind of an odd backdrop.
Now, here's what I found surprising. To me, the first half of his speech - the rhetoric about Bush and McCain - came off as pretty darn flat and repetitive of a lot of things people had been saying all week, often in much more passionate voices. Where was the new great orator of a generation? Is he exhausted, or having a hard time projecting to the huge crowd, or just not as fervent on nuts-and-bolts than on lofty rhetoric? Did he need Brian Schweitzer to give him a pep talk? But he did bring in two new sound bytes for attack ads - I liked the "Eight is Enough" thing, and the "You're On Your Own" thing.
He did start to step it up in the 2nd half, talking more about the issues and his plans. The crowd was certainly with him all the way, and I like actually hearing some real specifics from him rather than "kumbaya" kind of language. (One of the historians afterwards said it "sacrificed eloquence for electability," and I think that sums it up.) I have to admire his Kennedy-esque stance on ending our dependence on foreign oil. Let's hope he gets the chance to make it true. His attacks also got a little more passionate towards the end, talking about foreign policy, Afghanistan, and Iraq. And I liked the part about the Democrats' legacy of defending this nation. (When in doubt, name check FDR, I say.) "Patriotism has no party" is a smart line, too. But sadly, for whatever reason, I was finding it very hard to pay close attention to every word... and what was that country song played at the end??? Not quite the same as the U2 song that ushered him on. The mood just didn't seem to fit...
In the end, I was a little disappointed in his speech, but that may just be cuz I (and probably millions of others) expected it to be The Greatest Speech Ever Given. It was a stump speech, and a pretty good one, so let's hope it got the job done.
So... another DNC Convention draws to a close. And sweet Lord, I hope that the next 2 months produce much better results than the last two go-rounds.
I'm not sure why, but I had a little harder time paying attention tonight and just didn't get as much energy from the speeches - perhaps I'm suffering from convention fatigue? Perhaps some of the energy dissipated in that huge stadium crowd? Dunno, but I feel a little bit deflated, cuz I expected the events on stage to be more exciting.
Early Speeches - Alas, I missed out on some of the earlier speeches, only paying enough attention to hear Tim Kaine quote the Bible (not my favorite strategy) and to note that Bill Richardson needs a haircut.
Al Gore - Oh, Al, why weren't you yourself back in 2000?!? If you'd been passionate and funny, instead of just smart and wooden, you just might have made more people like you and it only would've taken a few... But I love ya, Big Guy.
"Real People" Speeches - These folks were great! I loved the recovering Republicans explaining why they're now voting Democrat, and the "Barney Smith - Smith Barney" line was just utterly priceless! Plus, in his intro, Biden seemed a little more rested tonight. His speech last night was good, but he seemed to be in a bit of a daze... looks like he's acclimating to his new Mile-High Life.
And, finally...
Barack Obama - The tribute film was good (Sam Waterston, is that you I hear?), but I wished it had a little more warmth and humor about his life rather than being more about Obama's community organizing. I think the really revealing tribute film for Michelle Obama is what started me out liking her a lot more, cuz hearing her family background and stories from her Mom and brother really softened her image. I think Obama still needs a little humanizing, since most of the "movement" has put him on such a high pedestal.
As for the "Temple of Obama" ? I didn't really get a temple image out of it, but I did see what I heard was one of the ideas... making it look like a government building behind him. But why? It was kind of an odd backdrop.
Now, here's what I found surprising. To me, the first half of his speech - the rhetoric about Bush and McCain - came off as pretty darn flat and repetitive of a lot of things people had been saying all week, often in much more passionate voices. Where was the new great orator of a generation? Is he exhausted, or having a hard time projecting to the huge crowd, or just not as fervent on nuts-and-bolts than on lofty rhetoric? Did he need Brian Schweitzer to give him a pep talk? But he did bring in two new sound bytes for attack ads - I liked the "Eight is Enough" thing, and the "You're On Your Own" thing.
He did start to step it up in the 2nd half, talking more about the issues and his plans. The crowd was certainly with him all the way, and I like actually hearing some real specifics from him rather than "kumbaya" kind of language. (One of the historians afterwards said it "sacrificed eloquence for electability," and I think that sums it up.) I have to admire his Kennedy-esque stance on ending our dependence on foreign oil. Let's hope he gets the chance to make it true. His attacks also got a little more passionate towards the end, talking about foreign policy, Afghanistan, and Iraq. And I liked the part about the Democrats' legacy of defending this nation. (When in doubt, name check FDR, I say.) "Patriotism has no party" is a smart line, too. But sadly, for whatever reason, I was finding it very hard to pay close attention to every word... and what was that country song played at the end??? Not quite the same as the U2 song that ushered him on. The mood just didn't seem to fit...
In the end, I was a little disappointed in his speech, but that may just be cuz I (and probably millions of others) expected it to be The Greatest Speech Ever Given. It was a stump speech, and a pretty good one, so let's hope it got the job done.
So... another DNC Convention draws to a close. And sweet Lord, I hope that the next 2 months produce much better results than the last two go-rounds.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Convention Watch: Night 3
Jim Lehrer & Co. are laughing as we all watch all the Bidens of Delaware hug and say good night... so there we have it, night 3.
Some more reactions...
- Harry Reid - Oh, Harry. Why are you so boring and uncharismatic? Is there room to make Hillary the next Majority Leader???
- John Kerry - Oh, hush. I'm still pissed at him for losing 2004. He's never been a very passionate or approachable speaker... so why was his speech for Obama more engaging than any I remember him giving for himself?
- Bill Clinton - Oh, I still love the guy. He did exactly what the Obama campaign needed him to do, but even more so he reminded us all what it was like to have a President who was SMART and who TALKED TO US about the real issues. I remember thinking his State of the Union addresses were like college courses in current affairs, and his speech tonight reminded me what it felt like to *learn* from our President. He has such a grasp of everything - everything - and I always trusted that he could see the big picture and steer our nation on the right course. Not like the bullies who moved in to the White House afterwards. Darn that 22nd Amendment! Bill had a lot of great lines, and a lot of things that Obama's folks can just lift and put right into their campaign commercials, but my favorite was how the rest of the world has always been "more impressed by the power of our example than the example of our power." What a perfect line.
- Veterans Tribute Film - Well, that was powerful. Spielberg and Hanks use their powers for good, and this film combined with Patrick Murphy's speech amongst his fellow soldiers were great... and the whole theme of the night helped the Democrats position the party as the people who take care of our veterans. I think that's a really strong theme, and they need to keep pushing it to undo the damage of the Swift Boaters (yes, you, T. Boone Pickens!) and balance the strong personal story of Senator McCain.
- Beau Biden -- That right there looked like a future nominee. He was fantastic, and brought everyone from Michelle Obama to delegates on the floor to this viewer to tears. Good luck to him in Iraq, and let's all watch his political future.
- Joe Biden - That was a strong speech, and I thought it was great at striking the chords of Democratic values. We believe in the simple American dream, that we all have an equal shot at achieving whatever we set out to accomplish, that no one's any better or should be more privileged than anyone else. This was true Workin' Class Joe, and I hope it goes a long way towards winning over some of those Rust Belt folks that we need to win the general election. It wasn't the best delivery or the best rhetorical speech of the whole convention, but it may just be the tops for heart. Seeing Biden's mom and hearing her life lessons, and seeing the entire Biden family gather at the end -- it was all very warm and moving. We all love to see good families.
- Another surprise appearance by Barack Obama - He's pretty good at those live, friendly moments... and this time there wasn't a cute 7-year-old upstaging him. He wrapped up the night nicely, and for the first time I finally heard a good reason to move the convention to the huge stadium tomorrow night. So far, it had all sounded like very expensive hubris, but I get his grassroots explanation. I hope they keep up the "big tent" theme tomorrow night.
So, on we go to Thursday, when Obama accepts the nomination on the anniversary of "I Have a Dream." It should be quite a moment. So far, the Clintons have really been the stars of this convention, so I hope he's able to take the spotlight in as gracious and inspiring a way as they have.
Some more reactions...
- Harry Reid - Oh, Harry. Why are you so boring and uncharismatic? Is there room to make Hillary the next Majority Leader???
- John Kerry - Oh, hush. I'm still pissed at him for losing 2004. He's never been a very passionate or approachable speaker... so why was his speech for Obama more engaging than any I remember him giving for himself?
- Bill Clinton - Oh, I still love the guy. He did exactly what the Obama campaign needed him to do, but even more so he reminded us all what it was like to have a President who was SMART and who TALKED TO US about the real issues. I remember thinking his State of the Union addresses were like college courses in current affairs, and his speech tonight reminded me what it felt like to *learn* from our President. He has such a grasp of everything - everything - and I always trusted that he could see the big picture and steer our nation on the right course. Not like the bullies who moved in to the White House afterwards. Darn that 22nd Amendment! Bill had a lot of great lines, and a lot of things that Obama's folks can just lift and put right into their campaign commercials, but my favorite was how the rest of the world has always been "more impressed by the power of our example than the example of our power." What a perfect line.
- Veterans Tribute Film - Well, that was powerful. Spielberg and Hanks use their powers for good, and this film combined with Patrick Murphy's speech amongst his fellow soldiers were great... and the whole theme of the night helped the Democrats position the party as the people who take care of our veterans. I think that's a really strong theme, and they need to keep pushing it to undo the damage of the Swift Boaters (yes, you, T. Boone Pickens!) and balance the strong personal story of Senator McCain.
- Beau Biden -- That right there looked like a future nominee. He was fantastic, and brought everyone from Michelle Obama to delegates on the floor to this viewer to tears. Good luck to him in Iraq, and let's all watch his political future.
- Joe Biden - That was a strong speech, and I thought it was great at striking the chords of Democratic values. We believe in the simple American dream, that we all have an equal shot at achieving whatever we set out to accomplish, that no one's any better or should be more privileged than anyone else. This was true Workin' Class Joe, and I hope it goes a long way towards winning over some of those Rust Belt folks that we need to win the general election. It wasn't the best delivery or the best rhetorical speech of the whole convention, but it may just be the tops for heart. Seeing Biden's mom and hearing her life lessons, and seeing the entire Biden family gather at the end -- it was all very warm and moving. We all love to see good families.
- Another surprise appearance by Barack Obama - He's pretty good at those live, friendly moments... and this time there wasn't a cute 7-year-old upstaging him. He wrapped up the night nicely, and for the first time I finally heard a good reason to move the convention to the huge stadium tomorrow night. So far, it had all sounded like very expensive hubris, but I get his grassroots explanation. I hope they keep up the "big tent" theme tomorrow night.
So, on we go to Thursday, when Obama accepts the nomination on the anniversary of "I Have a Dream." It should be quite a moment. So far, the Clintons have really been the stars of this convention, so I hope he's able to take the spotlight in as gracious and inspiring a way as they have.
Halfway There
My reactions to the DNC Convention so far???
Ted Kennedy - The tribute was very moving, and that speech was amazing considering the circumstances. I hope the Old Lion of the Senate is able to see this through, cuz it made for some really nice symbolism and ties to the history of the party.
Jimmy Carter - Love him! Why didn't he speak? He is telling CNN right now that he didn't think he needed to make a speech and instead made a film about New Orleans. Okay, I'll accept that, but I still wish he spoke... we've only got 2 former Prezzes, we should use them both!
Michelle Obama - Really great. My first real glimpse of her, and I was thrilled at how smart, strong, compassionate, and sincere she was. A really polished and heartfelt speech, and - not to take feminism back a few decades - but she looked fantastic! And while I thought the hook-up with Barack Obama and Michelle and the girls was a little weird (get that microphone away from the little one!), it definitely personalized them all. Right now, I kinda wish Michelle was the one running... I could get very excited about voting for her.
Music Cues - None too subtle... really, "Sweet Caroline" for Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg? How did she not grit her teeth? And "Isn't She Lovely?" for Michelle Obama? Is that supposed to be a signal to "play the pretty wifey role" ???
Bob Casey - Still glad you took Santorum's seat, and you had a few good lines. (Heheh. Sidekick.) Why can't you change your views on choice?
Mark Warner - surprisingly bland and boring.
Deval Patrick - Great! Is there room for him in a national role?
Scheduling - *way* too late. I'm too old to be all fired up at midnight. I'm so dragging in these mornings.
Coverage - Best remedy to keep from poking your own eyes out? Click away from the rabid maniacs on the cable nets and watch the coverage on PBS. Better for your own health, and the nation.
Hillary Clinton - Oh, my gal. I cried... and cried... and cried... starting with the tribute film through about the first 5 minutes of her speech. I guess this was the first time that the pain of the loss hit me, and she was just so awesome out there that it hurt. She's smart, strong, strategic, and gracious, and she looked like my President out there. She made it about the issues, and even though some Monday morning QB's are complaining about it right now, I think that's the best thing she could've done. All those Hillary supporters who need to be convinced to vote for Obama probably aren't gonna be as moved by "I've gotten to know Barack, he's great" as they will be by "If you supported me cuz you believed in these issues, you should support him too." She was reasoning with them, not patronizing, and I really appreciated it. Plus, she was tough -- I loved her Twin Cities crack, and the Harriet Tubman section was great. It took me a long time to wind down from her speech last night cuz it was just so darn good, and so bittersweet.
Bill Clinton - Ah, the last wild card. I'm really looking forward to his speech tonight, cuz I'm sure he's gonna rock it no matter what he says. Bubba is super-smart and I'm betting he won't do anything to take the blame for anything that may come in the fall. Plus, the look of love on his face while watching Hill last night said a thousand words.
Favorite Moment So Far - In the Hillary Clinton tribute film, during the talking heads part, when Bill Clinton spoke and he was identified onscreen only as "Hillary's Husband." Boo-yeah! :-)
Now, your turn. Thoughts?
Ted Kennedy - The tribute was very moving, and that speech was amazing considering the circumstances. I hope the Old Lion of the Senate is able to see this through, cuz it made for some really nice symbolism and ties to the history of the party.
Jimmy Carter - Love him! Why didn't he speak? He is telling CNN right now that he didn't think he needed to make a speech and instead made a film about New Orleans. Okay, I'll accept that, but I still wish he spoke... we've only got 2 former Prezzes, we should use them both!
Michelle Obama - Really great. My first real glimpse of her, and I was thrilled at how smart, strong, compassionate, and sincere she was. A really polished and heartfelt speech, and - not to take feminism back a few decades - but she looked fantastic! And while I thought the hook-up with Barack Obama and Michelle and the girls was a little weird (get that microphone away from the little one!), it definitely personalized them all. Right now, I kinda wish Michelle was the one running... I could get very excited about voting for her.
Music Cues - None too subtle... really, "Sweet Caroline" for Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg? How did she not grit her teeth? And "Isn't She Lovely?" for Michelle Obama? Is that supposed to be a signal to "play the pretty wifey role" ???
Bob Casey - Still glad you took Santorum's seat, and you had a few good lines. (Heheh. Sidekick.) Why can't you change your views on choice?
Mark Warner - surprisingly bland and boring.
Deval Patrick - Great! Is there room for him in a national role?
Scheduling - *way* too late. I'm too old to be all fired up at midnight. I'm so dragging in these mornings.
Coverage - Best remedy to keep from poking your own eyes out? Click away from the rabid maniacs on the cable nets and watch the coverage on PBS. Better for your own health, and the nation.
Hillary Clinton - Oh, my gal. I cried... and cried... and cried... starting with the tribute film through about the first 5 minutes of her speech. I guess this was the first time that the pain of the loss hit me, and she was just so awesome out there that it hurt. She's smart, strong, strategic, and gracious, and she looked like my President out there. She made it about the issues, and even though some Monday morning QB's are complaining about it right now, I think that's the best thing she could've done. All those Hillary supporters who need to be convinced to vote for Obama probably aren't gonna be as moved by "I've gotten to know Barack, he's great" as they will be by "If you supported me cuz you believed in these issues, you should support him too." She was reasoning with them, not patronizing, and I really appreciated it. Plus, she was tough -- I loved her Twin Cities crack, and the Harriet Tubman section was great. It took me a long time to wind down from her speech last night cuz it was just so darn good, and so bittersweet.
Bill Clinton - Ah, the last wild card. I'm really looking forward to his speech tonight, cuz I'm sure he's gonna rock it no matter what he says. Bubba is super-smart and I'm betting he won't do anything to take the blame for anything that may come in the fall. Plus, the look of love on his face while watching Hill last night said a thousand words.
Favorite Moment So Far - In the Hillary Clinton tribute film, during the talking heads part, when Bill Clinton spoke and he was identified onscreen only as "Hillary's Husband." Boo-yeah! :-)
Now, your turn. Thoughts?
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Worth the Wait?
And the winner is........Delaware's Favorite Son, Senator Joe Biden!
So, was it worth the wait? With the answer turning out to be Biden, yes, I think so. I really do believe he'll be a strong addition to the ticket, for all of the reasons we've been discussing in the comments below. I knew in my heart it wouldn't be Hillary, and the dark horse candidate that a few of my contacts started talking about breathlessly in the last few days -- Big Al Gore himself -- seemed very very unlikely. So Joe really does seem the absolute best choice from among Obama's short list.
And I have to say, I'm impressed that Obama (and/or the people around him) recognize that there is a need to bring Biden's type of strengths to the ticket. I'm so glad that he didn't pick Bayh or Kaine.
But.... the question in my post title actually refers to two things. Are today's events going to prove to be worth the absolute media frenzy surrounding the MATMOAT? (aka the MOST ANTICIPATED TEXT MESSAGE OF ALL TIME).
Full disclosure, I'm a little ticked that after days and days of anticipation, and after being subjected to all kinds of Democratic fundraising calls since signing up, I NEVER EVEN GOT the stupid text message. Not at midnight, or at 2:30 am, or at 3 am, like some people I know. Zip, zilch, nada. So in my personal opinion, this PR tactic was a big darn tease.
But why did they wait until around midnight on a Friday night to release the announcement? Doesn't that go against all of our usual beliefs about maximizing the news cycle? Who - other than inside-the-Beltway types like me - really watches the cable talk shows on Saturdays? (I assume most people have more interesting lives and are actually out *doing* things on the weekends rather than obsessing over the talking heads.)
And having the rally on a Saturday afternoon also doesn't seem to be the best timing for attracting a huge audience. Sure, it gives the networks lots of time to put clips and segments together before the Sunday talks and the Sunday papers will have great materials. Maybe that was the point, but it just doesn't seem to make much sense for attracting a live audience.
What do you all think? Did this Campaign 2.0 tactic live up to all the hype?
Photo from http://biden.senate.gov/press/gallery/
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Veepstakes
Oh, the lines are burning up with buzz.... who, oh who, will be number two? And who, oh who, will be the other number two?
Well, dear readers, here's your chance. If you read this post before any announcement is made, go ahead and lay your bets.... Who will Obama pick? Who will McCain pick? Put it right there in the comments section and let's see how we do. If you read this after the announcement, then what do you think? Good picks, bad picks?
Here's my take on it all...
All this talk of veepstakes just reminds me how much has changed since 4 years ago, when I was so engaged in the election process and was working hard, and I was cheering and jumping for joy when Kerry announced his pick. Yeah, John Edwards. I was so psyched and hopeful and sure we were going to win. That was then.
I'm considerably less engaged in this year's process and a lot more jaded. I doubt there will be any jumping for joy tomorrow when I finally get the text announcement (yes, I signed up, and now my cell is ringing every 3 hours with a dang poll/fundraising/volunteer call.) There's only one outcome that will really shock me, and it's the one I'd like best so I doubt it will happen.
My guess? If I had to put $10 down on it, here's how I'd bet:
$5 for Richardson
$3 for Joe Biden
75 cents for Kaine
75 cents for Bayh
50 cents for Hillary
I think Obama needs someone a little older and more established, with significant foreign policy experience. Both Richardson and Biden offer that. I like them both... but the reasons why I like Biden probably are what would make him less attractive as a #2. He's tough, he says whatever's on his mind, and he's a wee bit crazy. (IMHO, of course.) Richardson brings the great resume as well as the potential to engage a new set of voters and a new geographic area. Sure, people have said that it's too risky to put Richardson on the same ticket as Obama (too much barrier-breaking?), but my thought is that anyone who wouldn't vote for a doubly-diverse ticket probably wouldn't be voting for Obama in the first place. So why not?
Sure, Kaine and Bayh are both emerging leaders in the party and could each help swing key states... but I don't think they add much weight to the ticket. Obama doesn't need another young, new face - he needs a little balance.
And while I would be thrilled to have the Dream Ticket become reality, I really, really, really doubt it will happen. Would they really announce her speaking scheduling at the DNC convention as a big fake-out? I don't expect it to happen.... and I don't really think it would be Obama's best choice anyway. But I sure would love to see Hillary become the first woman VP.
So there's that.
On the McCain side? I'm guessing Tom Ridge -- he's probably way too moderate for most of the GOP conservative base, but he could help a lot in a key swing state. Maybe it'll be Romney instead, who creeps me out. Otherwise, I really don't even know of any of the other names in the mix. Who else is a contender to be McCain's #2?
So what do you all think?
Well, dear readers, here's your chance. If you read this post before any announcement is made, go ahead and lay your bets.... Who will Obama pick? Who will McCain pick? Put it right there in the comments section and let's see how we do. If you read this after the announcement, then what do you think? Good picks, bad picks?
Here's my take on it all...
All this talk of veepstakes just reminds me how much has changed since 4 years ago, when I was so engaged in the election process and was working hard, and I was cheering and jumping for joy when Kerry announced his pick. Yeah, John Edwards. I was so psyched and hopeful and sure we were going to win. That was then.
I'm considerably less engaged in this year's process and a lot more jaded. I doubt there will be any jumping for joy tomorrow when I finally get the text announcement (yes, I signed up, and now my cell is ringing every 3 hours with a dang poll/fundraising/volunteer call.) There's only one outcome that will really shock me, and it's the one I'd like best so I doubt it will happen.
My guess? If I had to put $10 down on it, here's how I'd bet:
$5 for Richardson
$3 for Joe Biden
75 cents for Kaine
75 cents for Bayh
50 cents for Hillary
I think Obama needs someone a little older and more established, with significant foreign policy experience. Both Richardson and Biden offer that. I like them both... but the reasons why I like Biden probably are what would make him less attractive as a #2. He's tough, he says whatever's on his mind, and he's a wee bit crazy. (IMHO, of course.) Richardson brings the great resume as well as the potential to engage a new set of voters and a new geographic area. Sure, people have said that it's too risky to put Richardson on the same ticket as Obama (too much barrier-breaking?), but my thought is that anyone who wouldn't vote for a doubly-diverse ticket probably wouldn't be voting for Obama in the first place. So why not?
Sure, Kaine and Bayh are both emerging leaders in the party and could each help swing key states... but I don't think they add much weight to the ticket. Obama doesn't need another young, new face - he needs a little balance.
And while I would be thrilled to have the Dream Ticket become reality, I really, really, really doubt it will happen. Would they really announce her speaking scheduling at the DNC convention as a big fake-out? I don't expect it to happen.... and I don't really think it would be Obama's best choice anyway. But I sure would love to see Hillary become the first woman VP.
So there's that.
On the McCain side? I'm guessing Tom Ridge -- he's probably way too moderate for most of the GOP conservative base, but he could help a lot in a key swing state. Maybe it'll be Romney instead, who creeps me out. Otherwise, I really don't even know of any of the other names in the mix. Who else is a contender to be McCain's #2?
So what do you all think?
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Sometimes Less Talk Is Better
Let me join the chorus of people cheering for this summer's phenom, Mr. Michael "All Gold, All The Time" Phelps. He's truly been amazing to watch, and I thank him and all of the great Olympic athletes from around the world that are brightening our dog days of summer with a little inspiration and entertainment.
Even my usual sarcasm or snarkiness can't compete with the sheer joy of watching some of the wonderful moments of these games. There's drama, passion, suspense, comedy, and good old-fashioned patriotism. Kinda just what we all needed.
I do have a bone to pick, though, with some of the horrible commentators that at times have come close to ruining the fun of the Olympic events. Do we really need some of the inane or - worse - smug talkity-talk with which they seem determined to fill the air? Isn't Beijing polluted enough?
For example, tonight, during the men's gymnastics event final for floor exercise, the commentary went a little something like this (paraphrased) as an athlete from Brazil competed, trying to win the very first medal for his country in the sport:
- Gymnast is doing well...
Talk: He is his country's best hope for gold...
- Oh no! He misjudges his blind landing and falls backward onto the mat...
Talk: Oh, what a disaster! This is truly devastating! You can hear the groan of the crowd as an entire nation feels its disappointment. Look at his face, that is a look of total despair. He will spend the rest of his life analyzing this moment and wondering what he did wrong. He is a FAILURE AND HIS LIFE IS WORTHLESS AND HE SHOULD BE TAKEN OUTSIDE AND SHOT TO DEATH... (or something to that effect.)
Is this really necessary? Do we need to hear these horrible commentators - not just in gymnastics, they're all over the place - exploiting the raw emotions these athletes are feeling? Yes, absolutely, I want to share in their joy when they succeed. But when athletes stumble, they deserve privacy, they deserve better than having the whole world see them exposed and raw, let alone picked apart by these commentator-vultures. They deserve a little more respect.
Let us not forget, these are Olympic athletes, and no matter how well they do at the Games their achievements represent lives devoted to being their best. That's what we should celebrate.
(Phelps photo from www.nbcolympics.com)
Thursday, August 14, 2008
A Meal to Write Home About
I do love Restaurant Week!
Tonight, two of my favorite foodie friends and I ventured out to try a place that was new to me... Firefly in Dupont Circle. (Any place that reminds me of super-hottie Nathan Fillion has to be good, right???) What a perfect night... the restaurant has a wonderful ambiance, super-friendly and helpful service, a quiet location, and the food was just sublime.
Here goes:
First up, a beverage: Ambrosia, a tasty and lethal combo of vodka, mint, oranges, and blueberries. YUM.
First course: Spicy Tomato Gazpacho. Perfect, cool and smooth with just a little hint of spice.
Second course: Grilled Arctic Char with sauteed morrel mushrooms, swiss chard, and fava bean pesto. Mmmmm.... the fish was cooked perfectly, with a buttery texture, and the sides all added a nice savory balance and interesting textures.
Second drink: A glass of chenin blanc-viognier blend. Crisp, fruity, cool and refreshing, just what I love.
Dessert: Blackberry cobbler with mascarpone-blackberry ice cream. Oh my God, this was heaven. An adorable little square dish of a more cakey-style cobbler, with a delicious little scoop of rich ice cream. This made me happy.
My friends sampled the matzoh ball soup and the deviled eggs, the pork and the pot roast, and the blueberry-ricotta "cheesecake" and the chocolate and peanut butter sundae. We were all very, very happy.
Restaurant Week totally did its job. Even though it's not quite as cheap as it used to be- those drinks add up! - the lower price did lead me to try a different place and fall in love with it, so I will be going back. Again and again.
Tonight, two of my favorite foodie friends and I ventured out to try a place that was new to me... Firefly in Dupont Circle. (Any place that reminds me of super-hottie Nathan Fillion has to be good, right???) What a perfect night... the restaurant has a wonderful ambiance, super-friendly and helpful service, a quiet location, and the food was just sublime.
Here goes:
First up, a beverage: Ambrosia, a tasty and lethal combo of vodka, mint, oranges, and blueberries. YUM.
First course: Spicy Tomato Gazpacho. Perfect, cool and smooth with just a little hint of spice.
Second course: Grilled Arctic Char with sauteed morrel mushrooms, swiss chard, and fava bean pesto. Mmmmm.... the fish was cooked perfectly, with a buttery texture, and the sides all added a nice savory balance and interesting textures.
Second drink: A glass of chenin blanc-viognier blend. Crisp, fruity, cool and refreshing, just what I love.
Dessert: Blackberry cobbler with mascarpone-blackberry ice cream. Oh my God, this was heaven. An adorable little square dish of a more cakey-style cobbler, with a delicious little scoop of rich ice cream. This made me happy.
My friends sampled the matzoh ball soup and the deviled eggs, the pork and the pot roast, and the blueberry-ricotta "cheesecake" and the chocolate and peanut butter sundae. We were all very, very happy.
Restaurant Week totally did its job. Even though it's not quite as cheap as it used to be- those drinks add up! - the lower price did lead me to try a different place and fall in love with it, so I will be going back. Again and again.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Off They Go!
Remember way back once upon a time in 2007, I shared my parents' exciting future plans to celebrate their big 60th birthday year? Well, today's finally the day! They're beginning the long journey to Tanzania and their climb of Mount Kilimanjaro. They're going to see the snow caps before they melt. Wish I could too!
I'm really proud of them - they've been training for months, and have been walking more than 7 miles a day almost every day for the last few months. Yes, you may recall, Dad had a triple bypass just a year ago. But when they get motivated about something, they do it and have the time of their lives.
And, when they get back, Mom's planning to commemorate the occasion by getting a tattoo (?!?) of Kili on her shoulder. Trying to wrap my head around that one...
I really hope they have a great trip, and I can't wait to see the pictures!
I'm really proud of them - they've been training for months, and have been walking more than 7 miles a day almost every day for the last few months. Yes, you may recall, Dad had a triple bypass just a year ago. But when they get motivated about something, they do it and have the time of their lives.
And, when they get back, Mom's planning to commemorate the occasion by getting a tattoo (?!?) of Kili on her shoulder. Trying to wrap my head around that one...
I really hope they have a great trip, and I can't wait to see the pictures!
Friday, August 08, 2008
Just Enough to Be Dangerous
I have to give another shout out to This American Life, for all of the entertainment and educational value it brings to this particular American life. And I have to share one of my favorite little tidbits I've picked up from it this summer... the concept of "Modern Jackass."
To understand "Modern Jackass," you really should listen to the "A Little Bit of Knowledge" episode - at least 4-minute prologue- and learn the origin of this wonderful little phrase. From the site:
I love this concept. Love it! Why? Because not only is it hilarious, it's also so true... and I do it ALL THE TIME. Ms. Updike calls herself and her friends out for being the type of people who occasionally read an article or see a documentary on something obscure and suddenly think themselves to be well-versed in the topic.
Think about how often you are in conversations where people are referring to things they've heard, or read it somewhere once, or maybe someone told them... and offering it up as Gospel fact, as if they really know a lot about the subject and are speaking as experts. I'm not finger-pointing here, I know I do it too!
How much misinformation are we all sharing with each other just because we know just enough knowledge to be dangerous?
To understand "Modern Jackass," you really should listen to the "A Little Bit of Knowledge" episode - at least 4-minute prologue- and learn the origin of this wonderful little phrase. From the site:
Host Ira Glass describes the thing that we all do at some point: talk
expertly about something we don't actually know anything about. It's so common,
explains This American Life contributing editor Nancy Updike, that some friends
of hers invented an imaginary magazine devoted to such blathering. It's called
"Modern Jackass."
I love this concept. Love it! Why? Because not only is it hilarious, it's also so true... and I do it ALL THE TIME. Ms. Updike calls herself and her friends out for being the type of people who occasionally read an article or see a documentary on something obscure and suddenly think themselves to be well-versed in the topic.
Think about how often you are in conversations where people are referring to things they've heard, or read it somewhere once, or maybe someone told them... and offering it up as Gospel fact, as if they really know a lot about the subject and are speaking as experts. I'm not finger-pointing here, I know I do it too!
How much misinformation are we all sharing with each other just because we know just enough knowledge to be dangerous?
Sunday, August 03, 2008
I Wanted to Believe
Well, today was the day I'd been looking forward to all summer. After *almost* completing my major DVD assignment - still have about 30 episodes to go - I headed off to the multiplex to take in the latest installment in Chris Carter's vision, The X-Files: I Want to Believe.
And, I really did want to love this movie. Really, really, really. But, I'm afraid that I have to say it was a big disappointment.
Major Spoilers Ahead.
As you've probably heard by now, this movie is a stand-alone story - i.e. not relating to the series-long alien mythology/government conspiracy arc - that catches us up with our beloved Fox Mulder and Dana Scully some seven years after the series' end.
Mulder is still a fugitive from the FBI, seemingly living a life as a conspiracy-nut recluse and not doing much else. Scully is now Dr. Scully, a surgeon at Our Lady of Sorrows, a Catholic hospital. They live together in a little cabin off in a field behind a huge "keep all the bad guys out" gate. And, at least when we first see him, Mulder has grown a small rodent on his face. Beards suit so very few men, and Duchovny's not one of them.
Their quieter lives are disrupted when the FBI again comes calling, in the form of Amanda Peet and XZibit, with a mysterious case involving a pedophile priest who's having visions of female murder victims, which ties in to some nasty Russian scientists and stem cell research and a whole lot of dogs. They pursue the case, which isn't the most compelling X-File that Carter et all have ever written, and in the meantime get into some jaw-clenched arguments about whether this is who they still want to be, or if their lives have moved on. Hint: One of them is a lot more eager to "look into the dark places" than the other.
So.... my problems with the movie? Across the board, I think all of the problems fall under the "trying to do too much with too little" label. Such as:
- The case is boring. I didn't really find myself caring all that much about it, because it was neither scary enough nor enough of a provocative exploration of medical ethics. It could have gone in either direction, but didn't.
- The pacing is off. It moved reeeeeeaaaaalllllllly sloooooooooowwwwww -- like they were trying to stretch out the action of a 45-minute episode into a 2-hour-ish movie.
- The character development was really poorly done. Examples:
1. You've just shown us that Mulder and Scully have been living together for 7 years, and we have to assume that they've been happy, so why now suddenly throw tension into the relationship and have them talk about breaking up? No fair.
2. Amanda Peet acts like she has a little crush on Mulder. After like 3 meetings. huh? Undeveloped and unnecessary.
3. Speaking of Our Lady of Sorrows, I hate that they made Scully so serious, that she just really came off as an anxious nag, always a downer on everything but passionate about very little. They had the opportunity to really give her some meaty stuff, what with a pedophile priest seeking redemption and her own continual search for her faith, but the few times they did try it just didn't go far enough. They've done religion so much better so many times before.
4. Hooray for a cameo from a series favorite - I was not the only one clapping when he appeared on screen - but then they gave him absolutely nothing to do.
- And, worst of all, the thing that was missing most was that little spark... Mulder and Scully have great chemistry together, and that's what lit up the tv screen for all those years in all those homes in the 1990's. They can be serious, but they also crack jokes and flirt with each other. There was almost zero snarky sarcasm, no longing looks.... I think they each maybe only had one amusing line, though there is a very funny use of the X-Files theme early on in the hallway of the FBI building. But because that little anticipatory tension of their partners-who-flirt relationship was replaced by the draaaaaaaaaag of a couple that's fighting, it sucked the life out of so much of the rest of the film. Watching them argue here, it was hard to believe that these were 2 characters that would go to the ends of the earth and beyond for each other.
And for all of these problems, I have to say I'm kind of sorry that the movie came out like this. The Mulder and Scully story could have continued in so many different ways, but I don't think my overall enjoyment of the series was enhanced by seeing them with middle-aged relationship angst. If the mystery that they were pursuing here was stronger, maybe it would've helped balance out the relationship stuff, or at least made it feel like either one of them had more of a stake in the situation. But, sadly, I just didn't believe. (Though I must admit it was nice to see Vancouver again....!)
So, I give this movie overall a C, and that's earning a lot of points for just 15 years of sheer love for the characters. Now I will happily go back to watching the DVDs, where the characters remain true to who they are and the mystery, the fear, the conspiracies, the romance, and the truth are all out there.
And, I really did want to love this movie. Really, really, really. But, I'm afraid that I have to say it was a big disappointment.
Major Spoilers Ahead.
As you've probably heard by now, this movie is a stand-alone story - i.e. not relating to the series-long alien mythology/government conspiracy arc - that catches us up with our beloved Fox Mulder and Dana Scully some seven years after the series' end.Mulder is still a fugitive from the FBI, seemingly living a life as a conspiracy-nut recluse and not doing much else. Scully is now Dr. Scully, a surgeon at Our Lady of Sorrows, a Catholic hospital. They live together in a little cabin off in a field behind a huge "keep all the bad guys out" gate. And, at least when we first see him, Mulder has grown a small rodent on his face. Beards suit so very few men, and Duchovny's not one of them.
Their quieter lives are disrupted when the FBI again comes calling, in the form of Amanda Peet and XZibit, with a mysterious case involving a pedophile priest who's having visions of female murder victims, which ties in to some nasty Russian scientists and stem cell research and a whole lot of dogs. They pursue the case, which isn't the most compelling X-File that Carter et all have ever written, and in the meantime get into some jaw-clenched arguments about whether this is who they still want to be, or if their lives have moved on. Hint: One of them is a lot more eager to "look into the dark places" than the other.
So.... my problems with the movie? Across the board, I think all of the problems fall under the "trying to do too much with too little" label. Such as:
- The case is boring. I didn't really find myself caring all that much about it, because it was neither scary enough nor enough of a provocative exploration of medical ethics. It could have gone in either direction, but didn't.
- The pacing is off. It moved reeeeeeaaaaalllllllly sloooooooooowwwwww -- like they were trying to stretch out the action of a 45-minute episode into a 2-hour-ish movie.
- The character development was really poorly done. Examples:
1. You've just shown us that Mulder and Scully have been living together for 7 years, and we have to assume that they've been happy, so why now suddenly throw tension into the relationship and have them talk about breaking up? No fair.
2. Amanda Peet acts like she has a little crush on Mulder. After like 3 meetings. huh? Undeveloped and unnecessary.
3. Speaking of Our Lady of Sorrows, I hate that they made Scully so serious, that she just really came off as an anxious nag, always a downer on everything but passionate about very little. They had the opportunity to really give her some meaty stuff, what with a pedophile priest seeking redemption and her own continual search for her faith, but the few times they did try it just didn't go far enough. They've done religion so much better so many times before.
4. Hooray for a cameo from a series favorite - I was not the only one clapping when he appeared on screen - but then they gave him absolutely nothing to do.
- And, worst of all, the thing that was missing most was that little spark... Mulder and Scully have great chemistry together, and that's what lit up the tv screen for all those years in all those homes in the 1990's. They can be serious, but they also crack jokes and flirt with each other. There was almost zero snarky sarcasm, no longing looks.... I think they each maybe only had one amusing line, though there is a very funny use of the X-Files theme early on in the hallway of the FBI building. But because that little anticipatory tension of their partners-who-flirt relationship was replaced by the draaaaaaaaaag of a couple that's fighting, it sucked the life out of so much of the rest of the film. Watching them argue here, it was hard to believe that these were 2 characters that would go to the ends of the earth and beyond for each other.
And for all of these problems, I have to say I'm kind of sorry that the movie came out like this. The Mulder and Scully story could have continued in so many different ways, but I don't think my overall enjoyment of the series was enhanced by seeing them with middle-aged relationship angst. If the mystery that they were pursuing here was stronger, maybe it would've helped balance out the relationship stuff, or at least made it feel like either one of them had more of a stake in the situation. But, sadly, I just didn't believe. (Though I must admit it was nice to see Vancouver again....!)
So, I give this movie overall a C, and that's earning a lot of points for just 15 years of sheer love for the characters. Now I will happily go back to watching the DVDs, where the characters remain true to who they are and the mystery, the fear, the conspiracies, the romance, and the truth are all out there.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
