Political Obsession
5:01 pm September 4th, 2008Help! I’ve become totally addicted to pointless, trivial political coverage!
I thought it was bad during the primaries, but now that it’s convention season things have definitely gotten out of hand. It’s not even like I’m taking in new, useful information or perspectives — I’m just spending all day rereading different versions of the same irrelevant talking points. But it’s all so fascinating! There’s choice-based rhetoric from avowedly anti-choice candidates; there’s a well-delivered acceptance speech peppered with grade-school-esque put-downs and not exactly true statements; there’s flip-flopping and hypocrisy!
Palin’s speech last night seemed to indicate a focus on energizing the base rather than on drawing in independents (which either ticket needs to do to win), so as a Democrat I’m a little bit relieved. It seems to be the VP nominee’s role to give more partisan speeches, though, while the presidential candidate claims to have plans that transcend party lines — it will be interesting to see McCain’s response to Obama’s effective combination of inspiring rhetoric and specific policy proposals.
Hopefully I’ll be able to keep my mind on something other than the election for at least five minutes between now and November, but for the moment, I’m gearing up for tonight — drink when you hear “maverick”!
