Shalrirorchia
02-10-2004, 02:35
Oct. 1, 2004
Even among John Kerry's supporters there was some degree of concern this week approaching the first presidential debate. The attack ads run by Karl Rove's proxy "Swift Boat Veterans For Truth" (a more apt name would be Swift Boat Veterans For Bush) inflicted major damage on Kerry's reputation, particularly when added to the context of the Republican attack machine's attempts to portray Kerry as a "flip-flopper". Although the basis of these smears have, through exhaustive investigative reporting, been disproved the Bush campaign continues to take advantage of the situation.
No more. Last night John Kerry dispelled these vicious political vapors, demonstrating that he has what it takes to be the next President of the United States. While at times George W. Bush seemed to be grasping for ideas on what to say, Kerry's ideas flowed in a smooth, logical pattern. Candidate Kerry was concise, forceful, and crystal clear. He left little doubt where he stood on the issue of national security. At times the President attempted to take control of the debate, but he could never seem to get traction. This is especially awkward considering that the format of the debates, as well as the topic (his signature issue), were all scripted by his campaign. George Bush should have done a lot better than he did.
At times, Bush's face seemed to betray annoyment or even anger; the President did not seem to feel the urgent need to defend his positions (many of which are indefensible). On the occasions where GWB went on the attack, however, Kerry calmly smiled at his podium and took notes. It was a remarkable study in contrasts and reversals...the challenger looked like a confident incumbent president, and the president looked like a challenger flailing about wildly in an effort to attain intellectual purchase.
Although one debate does not necessarily radically alter the mechanics of the race, it DOES have an important context. John Kerry walked onto a stage set by his opponent to argue a subject that same opponent counts as his greatest strength. And now the consensus is that he beat Bush on his own turf. And Kerry has shown the American people that there is strength in him...he is not quite the flip-flopper his Republican adversary has tried to paint him as.
That's the flying rat for this week. Feel free to tell me what you think!
-Shalrirorchia, Ohio
Even among John Kerry's supporters there was some degree of concern this week approaching the first presidential debate. The attack ads run by Karl Rove's proxy "Swift Boat Veterans For Truth" (a more apt name would be Swift Boat Veterans For Bush) inflicted major damage on Kerry's reputation, particularly when added to the context of the Republican attack machine's attempts to portray Kerry as a "flip-flopper". Although the basis of these smears have, through exhaustive investigative reporting, been disproved the Bush campaign continues to take advantage of the situation.
No more. Last night John Kerry dispelled these vicious political vapors, demonstrating that he has what it takes to be the next President of the United States. While at times George W. Bush seemed to be grasping for ideas on what to say, Kerry's ideas flowed in a smooth, logical pattern. Candidate Kerry was concise, forceful, and crystal clear. He left little doubt where he stood on the issue of national security. At times the President attempted to take control of the debate, but he could never seem to get traction. This is especially awkward considering that the format of the debates, as well as the topic (his signature issue), were all scripted by his campaign. George Bush should have done a lot better than he did.
At times, Bush's face seemed to betray annoyment or even anger; the President did not seem to feel the urgent need to defend his positions (many of which are indefensible). On the occasions where GWB went on the attack, however, Kerry calmly smiled at his podium and took notes. It was a remarkable study in contrasts and reversals...the challenger looked like a confident incumbent president, and the president looked like a challenger flailing about wildly in an effort to attain intellectual purchase.
Although one debate does not necessarily radically alter the mechanics of the race, it DOES have an important context. John Kerry walked onto a stage set by his opponent to argue a subject that same opponent counts as his greatest strength. And now the consensus is that he beat Bush on his own turf. And Kerry has shown the American people that there is strength in him...he is not quite the flip-flopper his Republican adversary has tried to paint him as.
That's the flying rat for this week. Feel free to tell me what you think!
-Shalrirorchia, Ohio