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08/31/2004: "Act Two"

Overture
Got home late from work tonight so I didn’t get to see the lead-ins. I heard on the radio that Chris Matthews was attacked during his show. I thought at first it was by one of his guests whose frustration level at not being allowed to finish a sentence had finally caused them to go berserk but it turned out to be an just an anarchist. What was this guy thinking? Chris shares his political views.

I’m watching the convention on CSPAN to eliminate the talking heads during important moments but I keep the remote close and am flipping over to MSNBC and Fox for a few laughs during the slow spots.

Act Two
The Lt. Governor of Maryland, Michael Steele, gave a great speech about the progress of minorities. He is the first black, Lt. Governor ever elected in Maryland. He made a point of detailing history for people who may not know it that it was a Republican President Lincoln who signed the Emancipation Proclamation starting the process in motion. And it was a Republican President Eisenhower who sent the troops to Arkansas to desegregate schools. And the Republicans in Congress got the Civil Rights Act passed in 1964 despite the Segregationist Democrats opposition.

Governor Arnold Schwarzeneggar from the great State of Colleyfornia was next at bat. His speech was about the American Dream and how grateful he was to his new country for all the opportunities he has been given. His is a rags to riches story as an immigrant and yet he credits the greatness of America for his success. He used the “Girly Men” line to refer to those who are wringing their hands over the economy since our economy remains the envy of the world. He did a great job telling stories and giving all the credit to the President’s leadership.

Jenna and Barbara Bush poked some fun at Grandma Barbara, themselves, their Dad, Dick Cheney, Condi Rice, Karen Hughes and they made a point of letting us all know they had a hamster too. They introduced their Dad who was at a ballpark.

The President via satellite from Pennsylvania introduced Laura Welch Bush.

First Lady Laura Bush giggles just like Jenna and Barbara do. She is such a lovely, loving woman. What a contrast to our last First Lady. She sang her husband's praises with love and admiration. She spoke of his character and determination. She provided a glimpse of the man that none of us see. She is a treasure.

There has been a little Kerry bashing but there is obvious restraint being used against this very rich target. For the most part, the convention remains positive and that’s a welcome relief.