Mornin’ Politocadoes!
The DNC continues in Chicago. Last night, several speakers of some renown spoke, hoping to keep the spark that the Harris/Walz campaign has lit in Democratic voters. Oprah Winfrey, Josh Shapiro, Bennie Thompson, Bill Clinton, and of course, the man who would be America’s Dad, Tim Walz.
Oprah was fine, why is she here? Is it because she’s mega rich? Has to be. She gave the world John of God and Dr. Phil for chrissakes. In any case, she was fine. Rep Bennie Thompson’s speech was filled with dire warnings that Trump wasn’t done playing dirty. His speech followed a video of the events of January 6th, reminding everyone in attendance what was truly at stake. Gov. Josh Shapiro was good, I guess? People have said that he’s an Obama clone in rhetoric and I see that a bit. He’s ambitious I’ll give him that, but he definitely needs some time to bake.
Bill Clinton’s speech was a stand out. Clinton, who reminded the audience that he’s still technically younger than Trump, was charming and insightful in his speech. He was generous in his thoughts on Kamala and what she brings to the table. Folky and relatable, he somehow managed to make Kamala’s McJob when she was young an appealing part of her resume to be President? Like, how? Clinton might be a sleazebag with the morals of an alley cat, but damn if he isn’t astute and charismatic.
He also proclaimed her the President of Joy. So, naturally, my Weeb-ass brain immediately went here.
Then came Tim Walz’ speech was powerful and energizing. Walz mentioned his time as a teacher and a coach and implored Democrats to the “blocking and tackling” against Trump so that Harris can get the touchdown. While not quite as the off the cuff as usual, he used a teleprompter. he still imbued his speech with his “aw shucks” Midwestern charm. A beautiful moment came when he began talking about his family and their struggle with infertility. With the help of IVF, he and his wife Gwen managed to have the family they always wanted. At the moment, his 17 year old son Gus stood up, tears in his eyes, and cried “That’s my dad!” Not a dry eye in the house.
We need a little more humanity, I think. It’s moments like this that remind me that our politicians are humans. They are driven by normal human emotions, their wants and needs. Sometimes, probably more often than not, we get the base greed and vanity at the forefront. But it needs be reminded that we also get people who care and genuinely just want to make things a little better. Clinton made the point that the job of President has some really dark days, but it’s also the job where you can do something amazing for someone at the same time. That is the perils of power and I’d rather have somebody frustrated by the hard decisions, but at the end of the day cares about people than somebody who just doesn’t.
Welcome to Thursday! Please be excellent to each other in the comments. The Mayor McSquirrel Rule remains in effect. Something to keep in mind! Police are using digital data to prosecute abortion seekers, and Facebook and Google are helping them! Even if they are not legally required to do so, the tech giants will aid them in this since it’s technically against the law. Please be careful when looking for abortion providers or helping someone who is looking for that assistance.
The Covid-19 pandemic continues even if the emergencies end, continue to vaccinate using the latest version of the FDA approved vaccines by Phizer and Moderna. Even if you are vaccinated, please continue to maintain social distancing measures, wear masks in public areas in accordance with CDC guidelines in regard to your own vaccination status.Also, according to recent polls approximately 50% of adults are not planning on getting their Covid-19 boosters. So please get them and older adults should also look to be vaccinated for RSV!