Politics

Yes, yes, I know, it's fashion week and FNO tonight, so why am I writing about politics? (BTW, I am not trying to be cute here - this post really is about politics, so if the word gives you hives stop reading now.)

I am writing about politics because for the last couple of weeks I have been fascinatedly watching the party conventions. First Republican last week, and Democratic this week. It may not come as a surprise, given my Finnish origin, that I am very much a democrat.

Last week I was frustrated and angry listening to the selfishness, hatred and blatant lies of the republican speakers. A first lady candidate, who to me said nothing. Yes, raising your children is an important and tough job, but hardly one that automatically qualifies you to be a first lady, with the enormous responsibility to do something with that position that can change people's lives and influence social issues. She also never really said why her husband should be president. The other speakers were quite unremarkable, except for Clint Eastwood, who was a DISASTER. Paul Ryan repeated lies that have been proven, over and over again about Obamacare and budget numbers, and he has zero charisma. Mitt Romney himself, also not much charisma there, shared hardly any policy positions, and instead focused on NOT apologizing for having been successful in business. Duh! I've been on Wall Street long enough to know what a vulture capitalist is. Romney is a prime example!

Then this week has been the democrats' turn. And boy what a difference! The quality of speakers has been top notch. Michelle Obama delivered a very emotional speech, using words like honesty, humility, gratitude. Here's the best quote of her speech: "because, for Barack, success isn't about how much money you make, it's about the difference you make in other people's lives". Brava!

Julian Castro and Elizabeth Warren also delivered excellent speeches, and I am sure that the transcripts are available by googling the democratic convention 2012 speeches.

But the best really was Bill Clinton. His speech was electrifying. It was the best political speech I have ever heard. I was giddy, during and after, as he was able to articulate so well why I am a democrat, and not republican. His speech was about 50 minutes long (he was allotted 20 mins, but didn't give a shit), and all substance, but it was so good, and so engaging, that it felt like 10 minutes. He tackled every Obama administration policy position and made it understandable to the masses, including the budget, which he quipped is "just arithmetics". He reached deep into the democratic principles. He countered each of the republican attacks, and explained why Obama's position is better. He discussed cooperation, instead of hatred, made the case why Obama should be re-elected, and was really a rockstar democrat. I loved every minute of it!

Tonight we will hear Obama speak. He is the guy with the golden tongue, so his speech should be something. Hopefully he can be compelling enough to get four more years.