It is not hyperbole to suggest that there is a new star in the Republican Party tonight. Sarah Palin’s acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention was an absolute home run by any measure.
Last night I was flying home on a coast-to-coast Delta flight. This particular bird has satellite video feeds built into every headrest (in coach too). CNN was covering the Republican National Convention but frankly it had been a long day and listening to the chattering class of pundits exchange idioms with seasoned pols did not intrigue me in the least.
I was interested in hearing Sarah Palin speak, mainly out of curiosity. My expectations were quite low. I had no idea who she was and the initial press information on her was bland, neutral and sketchy. The biggest controversy was whether she should be on the ticket all – then she began to speak. Wow. I was hooked.
I am an unabashed fan of Ronald Wilson Reagan. History will note that he was one of the greatest presidents of his century and in all of American history. He could also deliver one hell of a good speech. Bill Clinton, who followed Reagan by four years was also a skilled orator that could speak to the longings, emotions and aspirations of his base. When it comes to stagecraft he is as good as it gets – maybe the best there ever was.
The speech Sarah gave was one of the best I’d ever seen. It was full of red meat for the base (these speeches always are) but the delivery was extraordinary. There is truly a new star in the Republican party, and her name is Sarah. I cannot remember in my lifetime, and I was born the year that Kennedy was elected, that there has been a true rock star in the Republican Party. During that time there have been several in the Democratic Party, most notably Bill Clinton, and of course the current candidate, Barack Obama.
Will Sarah’s efforts be enough? Too soon to tell. Run, Sarah, Run.
– Carl / Blogvious
