READY, SET, SLING YOUR MUD. The political season begins to officially heat up this week as the Democrats meet for their national convention in Denver; and will be followed by the Republicans meeting in Minneapolis.
Presidential candidates are coronated; vice presidents are announced and confirmed; and platforms will be established.
Oh – and there’s all sorts of “fluff”, too.
Wives of candidates will speak so that the nation can “get to know them”. Celebrities will make appearances. Stars will sing songs. Everyone will feel “good” about being in their party – and the gloves will come off when discussing the other party.
I thought it was interesting watching the process of the selection of Joe Biden as the Democrats vice presidential nominee.
After a few seconds of going over his background, analysts said that his true strength was that he was a “bulldog” who would attack John McCain at any moment, bringing out the bad side of the candidate of the other party.
My question: If something happens to Barack Obama – can this guy lead this nation?
That didn’t seem to be as big a deal as whether or not he could “go for blood” if needed.
My guess: In the coming weeks we’re going to see Obama in media-friendly surroundings; while Biden is on the attack again and again.
And I’m sure it’s going to be the same for the Republicans, after all – one good attack dog should be countered by another good attack dog.
As yet unannounced, I’m sure that the Republican nominee for vice president will be just as vicious and just as ruthless. After all, we’re trying to win a campaign here, right?
That leads me back to the conventions and the notion of adopting a party platform.
Quick – name three “planks” of the platform of either political party from four years ago.
You can’t, basically because party platforms have simply become places for rhetoric to be placed while the true election goes on.
Want to have some interesting reading? Download the official party platforms of both parties once they are adopted – I’m sure you’ll find them online. Then save them and wait until we have a winner.
Once our new president takes over, monitor his actions and the actions of Congress against what the adopted party platform is.
My guess is that you won’t be able to recognize it.
The real focus of this election should be how each candidate is going to impact your life – specifically. Everyone promises taxes that are more fair and punishing the rich and rewarding the middle class.
They will make statements about healthcare and education. They will speak of alternative energy and homeland security. The war in Iraq will be discussed.
Then – after January 20th, 2009 – they’ll do whatever they want to.
Is this a great country or what?