Kerry Speech

Some of the themes or subjects in his presentation surprised me because they are rarely mentioned by Democrats. He was talking to Middle America tonight…in an attempt to identify himself as one of them.

First, the military and the War on Terror: Kerry has consistently voted against funding for the Pentagon and for slashing the intelligence budget. Now we are to accept he is "ready to report for duty". How long can he keep physically and mentally continue this charade! It must be exhausting to play this role.

Second, his comments about God and faith also come across hollow because Democrats are usually slandering or demeaning anyone invoking a higher power. Politically wise to mention? Kerry is just not credible discussing this now.

Third, his plea to President Bush about taking the debate to a "higher ground" reminded me of the time as a child I was pummeled with snowballs by a group of kids. Then they got tired and went home except for one kid who stayed behind and did not "play" anymore. Democrats have compared Bush to Hitler, implied Bush had a role in 9/11, perpetuate lies he and Cheney went to War to line pals pockets, etc. And now Mr. Kerry wants to return to civility and debate. Right.

Kerry was flop sweating most of the night and speed read his lines. Not a bad speech performance but the content fell very short. He made overtures to the Green Party by slamming corporate welfare and to independents by referencing John McCain once. He really had no major announcements about what he was going to do...he was very much about what he won't do.

He lifted Cheney's line "help is on the way" and Bush's line about "restoring dignity" to the White House from the GOP 2000 Convention.

I could be wrong, but I don't see this propelling him more then a few points ahead of Bush. So onto the debates, maybe he will learn from AL Gore’s mistakes and not come across as an elitist know it all.