Great Speech

My first reaction to Obama's speech last night was over the top. I waited until this a.m. to post some thoughts so that I could fully process.

I thought his speech hit the target on three major areas.

1. Obama re-assured Democratic voters that he's a Democrat. He outlined specific proposals that he will champion as president. I must say he was somewhat light in discussing how he would pay for these proposals and see a Republican line of attack focusing on tax and spend. What else is new?

2. Obama tied McCain not only to GWB, but to failed Republican policies. His line about making the Republicans "own their failures." was simply brilliant. I have been frustrated because many of the Dem speakers have only said that McCain is more of the same, without showing how. Obama hit that hard last night saying McCain voted with Bush 90% of the time and Obama wasn't willing to take a 10% chance on change.

3. Obama showed he was a fighter. He took Biden's mom's advice and bloodied McCain's nose. Obama made McCain look small, very small by taking on McCain's negative advertising. Saying there was too much at stake in this election for the same old partisan playbook, Obama directly challenged McCain to grow up and be serious. We all put our country first.

Overall, Obama did all this and more with flourish and a seriousness that demonstrated his capacity to be commander-in-chief. He blunted what is sure to be several lines of attack next week.

It's hard to imagine the Repubs following this spectacle. For substance, for imagery, for the all-star lineup of political talent.