Our delegation was greeted by John Kerry at the morning breakfast. He spoke for about 15 minutes about the need for Maryland to continue to mobilize support for Obama. He laid out the party talking points about why Obama was the right choice for America. He also outlined the problems we’ve faced over the last eight years under the direction of the Bush administration. There were many cameras and reporters in the room. The morning breakfast attendees included the governor, mayors, congressmen, senators, delegates and many other elected officials.
Many people expressed nervousness leading up to Hillary’s speech later on that day. It was thought to be a watershed moment that would either bring the party together, or fracture the party further threatening our chances of winning in the General Election. I personally disagreed with a lot of the tactics Senator Clinton used during her campaign in an attempt to win the nomination. I thought they were divisive, misleading, and in many ways Republican like in nature. Of course, her supporters felt the same way about Obama’s campaign. This derisive campaign certainly caused a great divide between the supporters of the both candidates. With the spoils going to the victor, Obama, many Clinton backers were adamant about not supporting Obama in the general election. I can tell you first hand that after the Primaries were over, there was much animosity in the Maryland Delegation leading up to the convention. Would Hillary’s appearance fan the flames of discontent or help her supporters finally get behind Obama as the nominee?
On all accounts from those present, she did exceedingly well giving the message that the Democratic Party will be united going into the general election against the Republican opponent. She approached the podium with a confident strut and within the first moments declared her support for Obama. She further stated that all who supported her in the primaries should strongly do the same for Obama in the general election. At that moment, I could sense a collective sigh of relief in the auditorium from both Hillary and Obama supporters. I happen to be sitting next to a Hillary supporter who stated, “I can finally clap for Obama with no guilt!” In her speech, Hillary quickly began to layout that she and Obama were in agreement on just about everything and that their view for the direction that America needed to go, was one and the same. She then spoke of the stark difference between Obama and McCain and how America needed to choose Obama. The crowd enthusiastically applauded whenever possible and gave her many standing ovations. I believe she left the stage having done what was needed to unite the party. There was euphoria in room. Until the next, remember that All great minds think for themselves, question what you know, and be the change you want!
1 comment:
I think there was a lot of concern about Hillary was going to say the other night. But as angry as I was at her tactics, I couldn't believe she would turn her back on the party that had given her family so much. Some hard feelings die hard, and it will be hard for many of us to view her in the same way again, but I respect her for her loyalty, and by the way, giving a very good speech--the best of that night.
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