CA Republican Convention
For the past day and a half, I've been a fly on the wall at the California Republican Party convention in Anaheim. Above all, being there has given me some up-close-and-personal insights about two figures of potential national importance: Sen. George Allen (R-VA) and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.
As many know, George Allen has been referenced by Washington insiders as a favorite for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008. Based on the speech he delivered, however, there's reason for some concern. He seemed genial enough, but the speech was themeless, wandering, even (to be cruel) somewhat boring. Senator Allen lacked the kind of electricity or charisma that's often associated with winning candidates.
Granted, it's still early. And a lot of Allen's achievements as Governor of Virginia are impressive. But if he's planning on going anywhere in the primaries -- much less a general presidential election -- he's going to need to get a good stump speech and sharpen his delivery skills. Otherwise, nice as he seems, he's dead in the water.
Also had the chance to spend a few minutes with Governor Schwarzenegger not surrounded by the throngs of people that are usually much in evidence in any Schwarzenegger appearance. Unlike Senator Allen, he's got charisma in spades -- plus a disarming, self-deprecating sense of humor. It's absolutely clear that he's determined to win all the initiatives he's endorsed for the special election, that he's playing for keeps, and that he's got a firm grasp on the problems that confront "Collyforneea." I liked him -- a lot. (But he needs to do something about his hair).
As many know, George Allen has been referenced by Washington insiders as a favorite for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008. Based on the speech he delivered, however, there's reason for some concern. He seemed genial enough, but the speech was themeless, wandering, even (to be cruel) somewhat boring. Senator Allen lacked the kind of electricity or charisma that's often associated with winning candidates.
Granted, it's still early. And a lot of Allen's achievements as Governor of Virginia are impressive. But if he's planning on going anywhere in the primaries -- much less a general presidential election -- he's going to need to get a good stump speech and sharpen his delivery skills. Otherwise, nice as he seems, he's dead in the water.
Also had the chance to spend a few minutes with Governor Schwarzenegger not surrounded by the throngs of people that are usually much in evidence in any Schwarzenegger appearance. Unlike Senator Allen, he's got charisma in spades -- plus a disarming, self-deprecating sense of humor. It's absolutely clear that he's determined to win all the initiatives he's endorsed for the special election, that he's playing for keeps, and that he's got a firm grasp on the problems that confront "Collyforneea." I liked him -- a lot. (But he needs to do something about his hair).
posted by LadybugUSA at 9:20 AM
2 Comments:
Gee, I just love reading your insightful posts, Carol! I too think that George Allen needs to punch up his performance on the stump. His dad, the former head coach of the NFL Washington Redskins, was renowned for his motivational speeches.
I'd also like to take this opportunity to say you're a fine writer, Carol, with outstanding skills of discernment (in my humble opinion). Your posts read like comments and observations from a trusted friend.
Take care
Peter
p.s. Gee, being a Republican in California is somewhat akin to my situation of being a Republican here in Illinois.
Carol--
What do you suggest he do with his hair?
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