Obama: "I Don't Know What Kind Of Lives McCain Thinks Celebrities Lead"
One noteworthy nugget in his speech: Obama delves into his biography and directly takes on McCain's "celeb" sneer attack.
Obama runs through the story of his mom, who raised him and his sister and once needed to turn to food stamps; his work organizing on the South Side of Chicago on behalf of laid off steel plant workers; and his grandmother, who made tough economic choices and "taught me about hard work."
Then Obama hits the celeb line...
I don't know what kind of lives John McCain thinks that celebrities lead, but this has been mine. These are my heroes. Theirs are the stories that shaped me. And it is on their behalf that I intend to win this election and keep our promise alive as President of the United States.
It must be said that that's artful. It's mocking, rather than defensive. Rather than saying, "No, I'm not a celebrity, as McCain says," he's saying, "McCain's silly buffoonish celeb attack shows that he's the one who's out of touch with what ordinary people want from a president right now."
The speech pads this out with an extensive populist attack on McCain, and a detailed explanation of what Obama will do differently from McCain on the economy.
Good.
I'm so freakin' psyched! Go get 'im! "extensive populist attack!!"
Hoo-rah Barack!
August 28, 2008 10:00 PM | Reply | Permalink
FIRED UP.
READY TO GO!!
August 28, 2008 10:01 PM | Reply | Permalink
$100 donated. Happy.
August 28, 2008 11:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
Still not reading Greg!
August 28, 2008 10:02 PM | Reply | Permalink
I agree it's artful - but he usually is, Greg.
He's been mocking his opponents all along. He mocked Hillary with Bill's words. He's fairly gentle, but it's lethal.
August 28, 2008 10:04 PM | Reply | Permalink
That's David Strathairn's voice on that video. That's fantastic.
Remember? He played Edward R. Murrow in Good Night, And Good Luck
August 28, 2008 10:05 PM | Reply | Permalink
So great to get him to narrate.
August 28, 2008 10:05 PM | Reply | Permalink
I thanked you on the last thread. I couldn't figure out whose voice it was and it was driving me NUTS.
August 28, 2008 10:07 PM | Reply | Permalink
I saw. =D And you're welcome. And like I said over there, I'm a movie nut and amateur critic, so... I pay such close attention to all that stuff. Politics and film are my passions. =)
August 28, 2008 10:09 PM | Reply | Permalink
He came out early - ha ha! I wonder if that has anything to do with the rude interruption McLame is perpetrating.
August 28, 2008 10:14 PM | Reply | Permalink
The man takes the stage
August 28, 2008 10:14 PM | Reply | Permalink
Good God. I'm already tearing up. See you after the speech.
August 28, 2008 10:14 PM | Reply | Permalink
This completely obliterates the celebrity meme. McCain can, and probably will continue using it after tonight, but Obama has set the stage for a serious populist backlash.
I like they way he's thinking.
August 28, 2008 10:14 PM | Reply | Permalink
OMG!
August 28, 2008 10:15 PM | Reply | Permalink
He looks nervous
August 28, 2008 10:16 PM | Reply | Permalink
ENOUGH!
August 28, 2008 10:21 PM | Reply | Permalink
EIGHT IS ENOUGH!!!!
August 28, 2008 10:21 PM | Reply | Permalink
8 is enough? OK, that's like McCain old!
August 28, 2008 10:22 PM | Reply | Permalink
is hillary there?
I haven't seen her. That seems odd after two days of Clinton-mania.
August 28, 2008 10:25 PM | Reply | Permalink
Y'all will have to tell me if McLame's ad comes on - I don't think it will show on C-Span.
August 28, 2008 10:26 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm a C-Spaner as well
August 28, 2008 10:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
Damn straight!
August 28, 2008 10:31 PM | Reply | Permalink
That choked me up. I'm all weepy now.
August 28, 2008 10:33 PM | Reply | Permalink
That will be his finest parry of the night. Put those idiotic commercials to bed.
Meet the new Boss!!!!!!
August 28, 2008 11:30 PM | Reply | Permalink
Greg's key word is "SILLY."
It's just the right word for this game -- it diminishes and dismisses and infuriates all at once, just like the word "hysterical," which conservatives like to use against Democrats.
Just keep saying it: "That's just Silly John again..."
August 28, 2008 10:34 PM | Reply | Permalink
He is rocking
I wish I was there
August 28, 2008 10:35 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm glad he's talking about moral obligation. It's time to reclaim the moral high ground.
August 28, 2008 10:38 PM | Reply | Permalink
he used the word temperment..yes!!!
August 28, 2008 10:41 PM | Reply | Permalink
I've never been brought to tears by a politican before. Obama is doing it.
August 28, 2008 10:56 PM | Reply | Permalink
Wow.
August 28, 2008 10:57 PM | Reply | Permalink
I love CSpan! And that speech rocked!
August 28, 2008 10:59 PM | Reply | Permalink
O wow.
Is Joe Biden the happiest Veep candidate you've ever seen? I mean, the guy just beams all over himself everytime the camera picks him up -
August 28, 2008 11:00 PM | Reply | Permalink
He is beaming. He looks like he can't quite believe it's all happening.
August 28, 2008 11:01 PM | Reply | Permalink
Even he teared up at the end
August 28, 2008 11:00 PM | Reply | Permalink
I've never been more proud of my party. And of my country.
Quite a guy. Let's get him elected.
August 28, 2008 11:01 PM | Reply | Permalink
I second this. Never in my life have I been so proud. Never.
August 28, 2008 11:04 PM | Reply | Permalink
I know, me too.
I'm so proud to be an American and to be a Democrat!
August 28, 2008 11:06 PM | Reply | Permalink
We'll be analyzing this night along with the pundits and historians for the balance of our lives. I've been rather cynical since O. won the nomination, and I was all for him since Edwards dropped out. Something huge and beyond describing happened this evening. I think the Repugs are still sitting and staring at the T.V. screen with their mouths agape, thinking 'oh shit' to themselves. The historical truths behind tonight's event combined with the PERFECT staging leaves me to think that this election is already over. It's in the bag.
August 28, 2008 11:33 PM | Reply | Permalink
That was a phenomenal speech... I'm speechless. Completely speechless. It was brilliant. It was wonderful. It hit all the right notes... Thank you, Senator Obama. Yes. We. Can!
I was teary eyed when he walked on stage, and when Biden came out at the end...
P.S. Great song there at the end. Good ol' country!
August 28, 2008 11:02 PM | Reply | Permalink
Barack: Thank you so much!
The change we need: signed, sealed and delivered!
Now, let's make history on November 4th.
PD: If somebody knows what's the name of that instrumental music, please let me know.
Obama-Biden'08: For the change we need!
August 28, 2008 11:03 PM | Reply | Permalink
Damn
August 28, 2008 11:04 PM | Reply | Permalink
Wow, Tweety's going off. Good for him.
August 28, 2008 11:04 PM | Reply | Permalink
Did I imagine it, or was Tweety actually choked up?
August 28, 2008 11:07 PM | Reply | Permalink
I think he was.
Tweety's a weird guy, but despite his flaws, and they're numerous, I have no doubt that this guy sincerely loves politics and loves what he does. He's so sincere, I'd almost call him naive at times.
Despite all the bazaar antics that come with Tweety, I can't help but like the guy most of the time.
August 28, 2008 11:12 PM | Reply | Permalink
Naive is a great word for it, in sense of complete childlike transparency and externalization of emotion that Schiller analyzes it.
August 28, 2008 11:25 PM | Reply | Permalink
I watched it online so I didn't see that. But the man IS passionate about his country. I think he gets a pretty bad rap in here.
August 28, 2008 11:25 PM | Reply | Permalink
We all ought to write to C-Span and thank them for this unbelievable coverage - it was really about as close as I could get to actually being there.
It was - stupendous!
August 28, 2008 11:05 PM | Reply | Permalink
Yes...if you get an email or contact, can you post it for us? That was GREAT coverage...like I remember when I was a kid. No ignorant, overpaid, assmunches who never had the balls to run for anything.....
August 28, 2008 11:07 PM | Reply | Permalink
Already did.
viewer@c-span.org
August 28, 2008 11:24 PM | Reply | Permalink
O thanks!
August 28, 2008 11:49 PM | Reply | Permalink
Sent mine. Thanks for the addy.
August 29, 2008 12:02 AM | Reply | Permalink
He hit it completely out of the stadium. God, I would be so proud to have this man represent my country to the rest of the world.
August 28, 2008 11:05 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm a pretty cynical guy. But I have to say, that was one of the most amazing, adept, brilliant, jiu-jitsu, heartfelt, serious, pitch-perfect, generous, and inspiring speeches I've ever heard. No, I take that back, it WAS the most of all the above.
It wasn't just a home run - it was a grand slam moon shot into the third level of the upper deck in straight-away center field. I am just in awe. To be honest this is the first time I've actually listened to him at significant length.
And to think I just saw him a couple nights ago on ESPN Sportscenter schooling Stuart Scott one-on-one in a pickup basketball game.
August 28, 2008 11:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
The speech was fine, but the production number at the end was fucking amazing. It was like the end of the world's best opera.
August 28, 2008 11:06 PM | Reply | Permalink
LOL! I know. I loved little love duet between Barrack and Michelle. And I realized something - she's as tall as he is. I hadn't realized that.
August 28, 2008 11:14 PM | Reply | Permalink
She is. You'll notice that she never wears heels. I just love her style and grace and class.
August 28, 2008 11:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
I just noticed the flats tonight.
I love her style - her style is just the best I've seen on a First Lady since - don't shoot me, please - Nancy Reagan. Say what you will about Nancy, she's not so bad after the fact and she has impeccable taste.
So does Michelle Obama.
August 28, 2008 11:25 PM | Reply | Permalink
Agree with all of the above. :-)
August 28, 2008 11:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
i'm in northern virginia and that mccain ad just came on with the whole crap about "he doesn't know what it's like to be us ... he'll raise your taxes ... blah blah blah."
it's fucking HYSTERICAL in the wake of that speech, where he said -- even punctuated with a "NOW LISTEN TO ME" -- that he will hook 95% of families up.
ANYHOO ... that was fucking amazing. i have never been so proud. of everything.
August 28, 2008 11:09 PM | Reply | Permalink
I have to giggle at Madam Speaker. She does that "Yes we can" rather like a Junior League member trying to put some fire in her ladies.
I love her - but -
August 28, 2008 11:10 PM | Reply | Permalink
Having her out there, Madame Speaker, reminds Hillary malcontents, if any remain, that the "glass ceiling" is a bit of a phony (or overstated) accusation. I.e., reinforces the message that this campaign is for everybody.
August 28, 2008 11:19 PM | Reply | Permalink
Fox News is hitting a new low in their analysis. Juan Williams is an uncle tom.
August 28, 2008 11:11 PM | Reply | Permalink
turn those douchebags off.
August 28, 2008 11:12 PM | Reply | Permalink
What kind of name is Juan Williams? Seriously?
August 28, 2008 11:13 PM | Reply | Permalink
an utter and complete douchebag. Don't listen to those people, they lower your goddamn IQ, I swear.
Just turn them off.
August 28, 2008 11:21 PM | Reply | Permalink
I never listen to them. I'm just asking what kind of name is Juan Williams?
August 28, 2008 11:24 PM | Reply | Permalink
His name used to be John McCain, but he changed it.
August 28, 2008 11:40 PM | Reply | Permalink
Porn Star.
August 28, 2008 11:45 PM | Reply | Permalink
D'uh.
August 29, 2008 12:00 AM | Reply | Permalink
I've got news for you John McCain. We all put country first.
August 28, 2008 11:13 PM | Reply | Permalink
FIRED UP.
READY TO GO!!
Obama KICKED ASS!!!!
McSidekick's li'l sideshow in the TWIN Cities is gonna look frickin' weak next to DNC '08.
August 28, 2008 11:15 PM | Reply | Permalink
Gergen - "I've drunk the Kool-Aid"
August 28, 2008 11:15 PM | Reply | Permalink
Did he really say that?
August 28, 2008 11:16 PM | Reply | Permalink
YES, HE DID!
August 28, 2008 11:18 PM | Reply | Permalink
HAHAHAHHAHA! God love him!
August 28, 2008 11:27 PM | Reply | Permalink
Watching on BBC...
Great line that you don't destroy a terrorist network in 80 countries by occupying Iraq, and follow up about wrecking our alliances, then saying that you don't fight challenges of the future by *grasping at ideas of the past.*
That goes to heart of problem. Really good.
August 28, 2008 11:15 PM | Reply | Permalink
Are y'all watching TDS? This is hysterical - Hahahahahaha!
August 28, 2008 11:16 PM | Reply | Permalink
Well, CNN is basically gushing over it. Gergen: "materpiece"
August 28, 2008 11:16 PM | Reply | Permalink
Matthews: I have said that this man inspires me, and I've been criticized by critics for saying it. Well, to hell with them.
August 28, 2008 11:20 PM | Reply | Permalink
He's like everyone's crazy uncle.
August 28, 2008 11:24 PM | Reply | Permalink
That actually made me laugh out loud.
August 28, 2008 11:29 PM | Reply | Permalink
seriously, did I miss something. Where is Hillary?
Great speech, but it would be problematic if Hillary was back in DC.
August 28, 2008 11:16 PM | Reply | Permalink
this wasn't about hillary. it was about US.
August 28, 2008 11:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
funny, the rest of the convention was a clinton-fest. Did you miss the first 3 days of the convention?
August 28, 2008 11:20 PM | Reply | Permalink
no, it was about obama and, more importantly, about us. 2/350 of it was about how mr. and mrs. clinton are behind obama. the PRESS made it into a convention that was a "clinton-fest."
obama was nominated to represent the democratic party -- have YOU been watching? or just reading CNN?
August 28, 2008 11:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
Like it or not, the mainstream media plays a role here. Why else would the democratic party make such a big deal about Hillary moving for acclimation?
The convention is a TELEVISION PROGRAM. 100% of the events are staged so they play well on the news. That backdrop was no accident. You think those folks up in the third tier could see the Doric Columns?
I pay attention. I know that the democratic party constructed clinton-fest on days 2 and 3 were so that tonight was all about Obama. I think that is the right thing to do. However, the last thing the campaign needs is the talking heads to be asking where Hillary was.
Don't be so naive.
August 28, 2008 11:41 PM | Reply | Permalink
Obama graciously gave the Clintons the attention that Clintons' supporters in particular felt they were owed. It worked perfectly.
And it in no way overshadowed Barrack Obama. In fact, I'm not sure how one does overshadow Barrack Obama.
August 28, 2008 11:53 PM | Reply | Permalink
I agree 100%.
All appear gracious. Which is why I was confused by not seeing her tonight. I am glad that she put out a statement.
August 28, 2008 11:58 PM | Reply | Permalink
Precisely so tonight would NOT be about Hillary.
August 28, 2008 11:31 PM | Reply | Permalink
She was there and just released a statement praising the speech.
August 28, 2008 11:33 PM | Reply | Permalink
I heard that while I was writing my last comment. Thanks. That's all I was asking. I think that it is important. Evidently, so did she.
August 28, 2008 11:43 PM | Reply | Permalink
Nancy Pelosi is funny. Everytime I hear her speak, she leaves me with the mental image of a 60 year old girl. That's not meant to be a disparaging comment by any means, but it's a mental image that cracks me up sometimes.
August 28, 2008 11:16 PM | Reply | Permalink
Meh, this should have been attached to Tena's earlier comment.
August 28, 2008 11:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
Exactly so.
She reminds me so very much of my mother in law when she was younger - there's a certain kind of woman - and that's it and I do just love her.
She makes me giggle however.
August 29, 2008 12:06 AM | Reply | Permalink
Did you notice that at the beginning of the speech it looked like she was crying? I thought that was really nice.
August 28, 2008 11:19 PM | Reply | Permalink
No, I missed that. I'd love to see it. I found a picture of Tim Kaine crying on the convention floor yesterday when Clinton suspended the roll call, and it almost made me cry.
August 28, 2008 11:27 PM | Reply | Permalink
Excellent convention overall. Definitely left with a sense of purpose and confidence that we have picked the right team to get this job done.
So...are all fired up and ready to go?
I am!
August 28, 2008 11:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
Fired up and ready to go.
But now... wow. Just wow.
August 28, 2008 11:21 PM | Reply | Permalink
It was a catharsis that has been a long time coming.
We finally picked ourselves up and found our pride in being liberal again - we aren't afraid of those motherfuckers any more - and we were for a few years there - it was pathetic.
August 29, 2008 12:09 AM | Reply | Permalink
Outstanding speech.
I'm glad I lived long enough to see this day.
Gobama. You, sir, are a badass.
August 28, 2008 11:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
Badass barackarate master!
August 28, 2008 11:23 PM | Reply | Permalink
Barackarate: I want lessons NOW!
August 28, 2008 11:26 PM | Reply | Permalink
You must defend without being defensive. You must attack without attacking.
August 28, 2008 11:48 PM | Reply | Permalink
You hustle while hustling, however.
That's Barackarate. He's the best hustler I've ever seen. He hustled the living fuck out of McLame and Repugs.
Hahahahahahahaha!!!!!
August 29, 2008 1:04 AM | Reply | Permalink
Sounds like Barakido
August 29, 2008 2:07 AM | Reply | Permalink
Yes, that too.
BTW: If you haven't gotten your fill of sophomoric, weak snark, go over to The Corner. They're all bitching like a bunch of jealous little girls over there.
I'm lovin' this. O has got conservatives tied up in knots tonight, because they know their asses are grass.
August 28, 2008 11:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
BARACKALYPSE NOW!!!!
August 28, 2008 11:33 PM | Reply | Permalink
It's BarAikido.
August 28, 2008 11:42 PM | Reply | Permalink
I think we just saw the end of an era, and the beginning of a new one.
August 28, 2008 11:19 PM | Reply | Permalink
Nicely put.
August 28, 2008 11:24 PM | Reply | Permalink
I really like how he looked directly at the camera at key moments, quite powerful.
What was up with those streamer things at the end though? Was that put together by the Kerry balloon team?
August 28, 2008 11:20 PM | Reply | Permalink
Haha I noticed that too. Looks like they need Cialis.
August 28, 2008 11:21 PM | Reply | Permalink
I pointed that out to my wife - that at most key lines in the speech, he looked directly into the camera. Probably connected big-time with folks watching at home.
the depths of this man's savvy are really quite startling. He worked that speech to the maximum and made it look effortless.
He's gonna be a great president. If I were in McCain's crew, I would be very, very worried right now.
August 28, 2008 11:25 PM | Reply | Permalink
And that's why he hasn't been responding forcefully the past few weeks. He's been saving all his ammo for this and he fucking unloaded on McCain.
A beautiful and powerful speech. He nailed it.
August 28, 2008 11:22 PM | Reply | Permalink
I agree. The pundits on CNN are stunned. It actually makes it watchable.
August 28, 2008 11:24 PM | Reply | Permalink
How sweet it is!
August 28, 2008 11:26 PM | Reply | Permalink
On CNN, Linda Shancez, Republican strategist, said Obama looked angry. She gave Barack a "C" on his speech.
McCain's team is obviously desperate.
August 28, 2008 11:22 PM | Reply | Permalink
She's a hack. She's Ann Coulter without the sense of humor.
August 28, 2008 11:27 PM | Reply | Permalink
OUCH! She'll feel that one in the morning!
August 28, 2008 11:29 PM | Reply | Permalink
Yeah, they're going to try hard to get traction with the 'angry' meme in the next few days.
Won't stick. Anyone who watched that speech with two brain cells to rub together saw a poised, intelligent and thoughtful man who wants the best for this country.
I'd wager that O's speech even won over quite a few disaffected Republicans tonight.
August 28, 2008 11:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
In St.Paul, the GOP has crapped their pants!
August 28, 2008 11:37 PM | Reply | Permalink
Then let's see how Linda can do it......
August 28, 2008 11:38 PM | Reply | Permalink
In internet dictionaries of the future, the definition of "total pwnage" will be a link to this speech.
Let's hear those little Republican bitches whining about columns now. Heh.
And he bitch-slapped them while affirming core liberal ideas. He didn't avoid using the words "abortion" or "gay marriage".
But the beat-down was teh sweetest!!!! To sum it up in my own crass vernacular, 'cause crass is what I do best...the man just pointed to a huge stinking turd in the punchbowl and said - "Look at that. It's a turd. It stinks. They'd like to pretend that it's not there and instead distract you to look at something else. But there it is, and it stinks. Let's get rid of it."
Devastating, and I'd say impossible to answer without looking like a silly little bitch.
August 28, 2008 11:23 PM | Reply | Permalink
Please read Andrew Sullivan's take on this speech.
http://andrewsullivan.theatlantic.com/the_daily_dish/
August 28, 2008 11:23 PM | Reply | Permalink
Yep. Read Sullivan. Thanks for this important link.
August 28, 2008 11:27 PM | Reply | Permalink
And he had it up in about 15 minutes. He was on a rip, obviously.
August 28, 2008 11:43 PM | Reply | Permalink
And this from someone who supported Bush against Gore because he believed all that "humble foreign policy" and "no more nation-building" deceit.
August 28, 2008 11:45 PM | Reply | Permalink
Great link, thanks so much. He is right, America would so foolish to pass up this opportunity.
August 28, 2008 11:34 PM | Reply | Permalink
It is a must-read. Even for those people who don't like/trust him for whatever reason. My favorite quote:
August 28, 2008 11:40 PM | Reply | Permalink
Great speech!! It is full of substance. I love every bit of it.
August 28, 2008 11:23 PM | Reply | Permalink
Olberman looks like he was crying
August 28, 2008 11:24 PM | Reply | Permalink
How about Rachel?
August 28, 2008 11:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
Wow, that was probably the most amazing, moving speech I have ever heard. There are few like those in our lifetimes. He blew it out of the park. Sincerity and passion being the key.
August 28, 2008 11:24 PM | Reply | Permalink
Unbelievable!!! I just donated $200.00...the only money I have left in my bank account. I am in awe and loss for words.
August 28, 2008 11:25 PM | Reply | Permalink
Donating all the money in your bank account for this cause. I am in awe of you.
August 28, 2008 11:29 PM | Reply | Permalink
I loved the ending, with the "Roman/Greek" coliseum of course being the White House. It was a great visual, seeing Obama/Biden and families all entering it.
August 28, 2008 11:26 PM | Reply | Permalink
I caught that too. The set designer did well. As someone pointed out, there are only a few firms that could do a stadium performance stage on short notice so it's no surprise that this group had worked with Britney in the past. They probably have done hundreds of stadium stages for hundreds of performers.
August 29, 2008 12:09 AM | Reply | Permalink
I'm just charged up reading everyone's comments! I made sure the kids stayed up to watch and thought it was fantastic. Watched CNN-HD, and they at least shut up while he was talking (I haven't watched CNN for over a year, so wasn't sure what to expect), and shut it off after the speech. I'm pumped! Hope this wave rolls all the way through November!
August 28, 2008 11:26 PM | Reply | Permalink
Thank you all for your comments. They've entertained me and enlightened me for months now. (Sorry, feeling that sense of togetherness now.) It will be a pleasure to kick some republican ass with you over the next few months.
August 28, 2008 11:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
I gonna borrow some money from mom tomorrow.
August 28, 2008 11:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
We don' need no stinkin' balloons.
Those are for Republicans. They are the political party which is filled with Ballonatics!
August 28, 2008 11:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
I love fireworks, personally.
August 28, 2008 11:55 PM | Reply | Permalink
He said "own their failure," didn't he. I like that.
August 28, 2008 11:30 PM | Reply | Permalink
I loved that line. It was short and to the point, and it holds Republicans accountable for their own failures. Want to talk about an "Ownership Society"? Well, own your failures!
It's a winner soundbite.
August 28, 2008 11:38 PM | Reply | Permalink
Yep, yep, yep. Hope it gets some resonance. It's the right point.
August 28, 2008 11:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
Awesome line and he said like he damn well means it. O I loved it.
August 29, 2008 12:02 AM | Reply | Permalink
Fabulous speech. I had high expectations, but they were exceeded.
It was really blunt. It was blunt about policy. It was blunt about taking on the celeb sneer, and what I loved most of all, it was blunt about the degradation of our political discourse the Republicans have practiced for the last sixteen years.
It called them out for "making big elections about small ideas," and it did so without whining -- it did so by using the size of the crowd, and the significance of this historic moment, to DIMINISH their petty tactics.
I love it. I love it. I love it.
August 28, 2008 11:31 PM | Reply | Permalink
Hillary used to make fun of him for giving a speech. Well, you know what? That speech moved us then and the one he just gave moved us again.
Fuck those who say inspiration is empty!
We can go to the moon from it, we can unite Berlin with it, we can and can and WILL!!!
August 28, 2008 11:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
I am in awe of this man and this time.........
STUNNING !!!
If we do not elect this man as our next President, we are a sad and sorry nation.
While I have donated several checks to the Obama change, to AMERICAS CHANGE - I have yet to volunteer my time...........that will change tomorrow.
OBAMA/BIDEN 08 !!!!!!!!!!!
August 28, 2008 11:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
"Good." Wow.
August 28, 2008 11:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
Longtime lurker, first-time poster.
Two quotes that stood out for me:
"John McCain likes to say that he'll follow bin Laden to the Gates of Hell - but he won't even go to the cave where he lives."
"In Washington, they call this the Ownership Society, but what it really means is - you're on your own."
ZING!
August 28, 2008 11:33 PM | Reply | Permalink
Welcome to the party!!!!!
August 28, 2008 11:36 PM | Reply | Permalink
I think its official, the PUMAS are dead!
August 28, 2008 11:34 PM | Reply | Permalink
Party Unity Mission Accomplished?
August 28, 2008 11:37 PM | Reply | Permalink
Good one supa.
August 28, 2008 11:52 PM | Reply | Permalink
Best speech of the convention
August 28, 2008 11:35 PM | Reply | Permalink
Does anyone think that Obama's speech tonight will be used in comparison to McCain?
ALL I'm hoping for is that the bobbleheads start saying things like "Yeah that was a great speech by INSERT NAME, but was it as good as Clinton's?"
We set the bar.
Good luck Repugs.
August 28, 2008 11:36 PM | Reply | Permalink
I don't know about the rest of America, but in my home we were all sitting on the edge of our seats throughout the speech as if we were watching the Super Bowl.
August 28, 2008 11:36 PM | Reply | Permalink
A little late to the party, I was busy putting my socks back on. MSNBC's tone is universal approval and panning the McCain campaign's tepid press release. Brian Williams says the temperment question is now on the table. Awesome stuff!
August 28, 2008 11:37 PM | Reply | Permalink
Wow. Eloquence & Steel.
So this is what Barack thinks is "workmanlike"?
August 28, 2008 11:37 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm stunned.
August 28, 2008 11:38 PM | Reply | Permalink
Completely off topic, well sorta. But when Biden came out for his speech his calling out to Harry Reid was amusing to me for some reason, and he did it again when he was leaving.
August 28, 2008 11:39 PM | Reply | Permalink
Then they showed them later hugging in the crowd.
August 28, 2008 11:44 PM | Reply | Permalink
Maybe it was cuz of this:
"I've served with the man 26 years," Reid said. "Do I have the ability to speak with experience about someone who has abused everyone he's dealt with? Someone who does not have the temperament to be president, who's wrong on the war, wrong on the economy, wrong on nuclear waste. What am I supposed to do? Walk around talking about what a great guy he is? I don't believe that. .... "
I think things are 'bout to be different
August 28, 2008 11:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
I agree with you. Those little touches of eccentric friendliness on his part are impossible to fake and, to me, very endearing.
Also, this kissing he does. He keeps kissing Obama, which I think is great. You know he won't stop even when they tell him to.
August 28, 2008 11:49 PM | Reply | Permalink
Biden seems absolutely overjoyed at being picked for VP. I don't see any evidence that he's anything but authentic in his glee.
August 29, 2008 12:01 AM | Reply | Permalink
O god me either - it's a wonderful thing to see.
August 29, 2008 12:11 AM | Reply | Permalink
Couldn't believe it when it looked like PBS was setting up to give Brooks--BROOKS!--the last word on the speech and the night. And of course he did his best to dampen enthusiasm. "Just the usual Democratic stuff, bit of a disappointment." Just like the faux even-handed, GOP-Borg he is, knowing exactly what the party line will be (they must have sent it out to all the implants earlier). Thankfully Lehrer turned back to their historian commentator--didn't get the name--who I didn't think was that great in his earlier stuff, but who gave Brooksie the lie.
Hate to think what's going on on the cable stations. It really feels like living in an occupied country sometimes.
August 28, 2008 11:39 PM | Reply | Permalink
Richard Norton Smith was the historian. He addressed Brooks' disappointment by saying there's always the Inaugural Address for a speech for the ages. It was simply great!
What a wonderful evening. Please join me as a volunteer for this campaign because we really have to get this man elected so we can own our future.
August 29, 2008 12:17 AM | Reply | Permalink
Brooks is a fucking party-line concern troll who thinks his masquerade of pseudo-aisle-crossing rapport disguises his real status. What a dick. Same BS every time.
August 29, 2008 8:57 AM | Reply | Permalink
The Republicans need to get up in the morning and start their road show, supposedly with new Veep. Have to do it.
But this is about the worst they could have imagined for Thursday evening.
August 28, 2008 11:40 PM | Reply | Permalink
You're right, the promise of a Friday VP announcement looks pretty clumsy if there is still so much giddiness tomorrow. Of course, then here comes a Hurricane Gustave and they're stuck between a rock and hard place. Ha ha.
August 28, 2008 11:42 PM | Reply | Permalink
What I mean is that they can't delay the announcement until Sunday or Monday if Gustav is coming ashore.
August 28, 2008 11:44 PM | Reply | Permalink
Now THAT'S the Chicago way!
August 28, 2008 11:40 PM | Reply | Permalink
Maybe McCain was right about the 15 point bounce prognosis.
August 28, 2008 11:40 PM | Reply | Permalink
The Republican are fucked. My neighbor just declared is vote for Obama.
August 28, 2008 11:42 PM | Reply | Permalink
Let that word roll around on the tongued: "fucked."
"The Republicans are ... *fucked*."
:)
*Fucked*
August 28, 2008 11:44 PM | Reply | Permalink
Never count them out. Rove probably has something up his sleeve.
August 28, 2008 11:47 PM | Reply | Permalink
The barackarate master! has known what's up Rove's sleeve, and he has rendered it useless.
HawYah! A slight breeze, a blur of motion, and Rove is rendered impotent!
August 28, 2008 11:53 PM | Reply | Permalink
I don't know barackarate, but I know crazy...
August 29, 2008 1:42 AM | Reply | Permalink
Holy Shit - Not his best delivery ever, but on content, A fucking plus!
August 28, 2008 11:43 PM | Reply | Permalink
KO taking the AP to task. Fuck the AP.
August 28, 2008 11:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
With Murdoch on the AP board of directors - whaddya expect?
August 28, 2008 11:53 PM | Reply | Permalink
Holy crap....did anyone hear Keith Olbermann reading the AP's hack review of the speech? Un-fucking-believable.
August 28, 2008 11:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
I heard it too. Who the hell is Charles Babbington? Fournier's aka?
August 28, 2008 11:48 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm guessing Mark Penn's alias.
August 28, 2008 11:52 PM | Reply | Permalink
If that 15 point bounce happens, it's all over for McCain.
August 28, 2008 11:47 PM | Reply | Permalink
McCain's fucked, ain't he?
August 28, 2008 11:52 PM | Reply | Permalink
Oh yes. He is well and truly fucked.
:)
August 28, 2008 11:56 PM | Reply | Permalink
That sounds so good, I just want to type it again:
McCain. Is. Fucked.
August 28, 2008 11:58 PM | Reply | Permalink
McCain: He's really fucked. Even for a former POW.
August 29, 2008 1:43 AM | Reply | Permalink
I was channel flipping in and out during the run up to the speech. But one thing that really grabbed me was the series of "regular folks" testimonials. I thought those people were fantastic, and I thought putting them in there as near as possible to the obligatory bio flic and then the speech itself was brilliant stagecraft. When the crowd started chanting "Barney! Barney! Barney!" during the Barney Smith one I literally teared up. And that line about an America that's "more for Barney Smith than Smith-Barney" was just a laugh out loud delight. Where's my "Barney!" bumper sticker?
And b.t.w., I actually thought the obligatory biopic was also head and shoulders above any of the others I've seen. Even when I support the candidate they are so artificial as to make me puke in my mouth a little. This one had a totally different feel. The exceedingly well done, understated voice-over had a lot to do with it, also the content, which is a very different story than any I've seen before even though they all try to harp on the "humble beginnings" theme.
August 28, 2008 11:53 PM | Reply | Permalink
I kept thinking how great it was to see 80,000 cheering people with Mile High filled to the brim. And how hard it will be for the GOP to produce anything comparable.
Their bash next week is gonna look like a 3rd grade production of The Wizard of Oz. I hope a lot of attention gets paid to all the GOP incumbents who won't go anywhere near the place for fear of catching a fatal infection.
August 28, 2008 11:55 PM | Reply | Permalink
I want to see a lot of coverage of Bush and Cheney at the convention! I understand they timed their shameful appearances so as to not be televised live. But I want see our failed leaders up there somehow! This is their moment!
Owning failure together!
August 28, 2008 11:59 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm a cynic. My wife more so.
The evening of 9/11, we're in shock. She says, maybe we should buy a flag and hang it up? I say, yeah, but they're going to turn it into their own symbol, use it for war.
And they used it for more war than I expected. To be a patriot you were supposed to pledge allegiance to Bush, his stupid vile war... you know what I'm talking about.
When Obama was done talking, the first thing my wife said: "If that guy's elected I am going to get a flag!"
August 29, 2008 12:03 AM | Reply | Permalink
America: Love It Or Change It.
For far too many years, the Republicans have cowed the Democrats into submission. Even now, our feckless, worthless Speaker of the House and Senate Majority Leader refuse to put up their dukes and fight. But not Obama. He prefers to get along, but if they want a fight, they've got a fight. I was so proud of him tonight.
It's about fucking time. I'm buying a flag too.
August 29, 2008 12:10 AM | Reply | Permalink
I've flown the flag every day of the convention, right beside my Obama banner. It's just as much my goddamn country as it is some chickenhawk republican and I'm taking it and our flag back.
If you do decide to get one, I found a great one made in the USA with a very good spinner pole that has bearings to keep it from getting tangled up. Well worth it.
http://www.united-states-flag.com/amflagandfla.html
August 29, 2008 12:20 AM | Reply | Permalink
Thanks. Will do.
August 29, 2008 10:02 AM | Reply | Permalink
A Democrat who knows how to kick some ass. Will wonders never cease?
August 29, 2008 12:03 AM | Reply | Permalink
"These people love this place, and they want it to get better." Chris Matthews just said this. Yeah, that's what patriotism is.
August 29, 2008 12:06 AM | Reply | Permalink
Tucker Bounds can't speak, he's stammering more than I've ever seen...
August 29, 2008 12:10 AM | Reply | Permalink
I went to a viewing party in my neighborhood in Chicago, hosted by my Alderman. I almost didn't go because I was afraid there would be too many people talking, but I had a new, sparkly Obama T-shirt I wanted to wear. So I went.
The viewing wasn't perfect, but I'm so glad I went. I felt truly connected to people across the country, and probably all over the world, who gathered in houses, bars, and even Time Square in New York to watch Senator Obama accept the nomination.
What an amazing speech. We laughed, we cried, we cheered, clapped and booed. Michelle was luminous. Joe Biden was absolutely beaming. Wow. What a night.
August 29, 2008 12:49 AM | Reply | Permalink
Also went to a gathering (smaller than the one you went to, it sounds like) here in CT to watch it. All with fellow professors and we were all tearful, inspired, and not ashamed to show it.
Payday is tomorrow, and I've already budgeted for my next donation.
August 29, 2008 1:47 AM | Reply | Permalink
And juevosranceros, good for you too. Thank you for sharing what must have been a deeply moving evening for all of you.
August 29, 2008 5:05 AM | Reply | Permalink
Good for you. Great that you did this, got connected, thoroughly enjoyed for all the right reasons.
August 29, 2008 4:58 AM | Reply | Permalink
Good Morning, everyone:
Looks like Pawlenty won't be the GOP VP.
http://www.politico.com/blogs/jonathanmartin/0808/BREAKING_Pawlenty_wont_be_in_Dayton_today_says_was_honored_to_be_considered.html
Looking to be between Romney and Sarah Palin (AK Governor)
http://marcambinder.theatlantic.com/
August 29, 2008 8:14 AM | Reply | Permalink
Barney Smith delivers the best non-Obama line of last night:
"We need a president who puts Barney Smith before Smith-Barney"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IuAVw_v3br8&eurl
August 29, 2008 8:26 AM | Reply | Permalink
Drudge has called it for Palin.
August 29, 2008 8:31 AM | Reply | Permalink
Apparently Romney is out.
It's Palin, folks.
The old man is taking a major gamble.
August 29, 2008 8:38 AM | Reply | Permalink
Good to see David Straithairn, one of my very favorite actors, doing narrative for Obama. But what's this I heard about Robert Duvall doing similar work for McCain? Surprising.
August 29, 2008 9:17 AM | Reply | Permalink
That clip could be your ringtone! (We also have MP3 highlights from the whole speech.
August 29, 2008 11:57 AM | Reply | Permalink