Students and scholars of public speaking have been abuzz on the airwaves this morning about Senator Clinton’s speech at the Democratic National Convention last night. In my opinion, it was one of her best public speaking appearances, and the energy, strong message, and sharp delivery of her carefully chosen words was fantastic to watch.
There were strong calls for unity:
Whether you voted for me, or voted for Barack, the time is now to unite as a single party with a single purpose. We are on the same team, and none of us can sit on the sidelines.
Poignant hits at the opposition:
John McCain says the economy is fundamentally sound. John McCain doesn’t think that 47 million people without health insurance is a crisis. John McCain wants to privatize Social Security. And in 2008, he still thinks it’s okay when women don’t earn equal pay for equal work.
With an agenda like that, it makes sense that George Bush and John McCain will be together next week in the Twin Cities. Because these days they’re awfully hard to tell apart.
Uplifting sentiments:
We need leaders once again who can tap into that special blend of American confidence and optimism that has enabled generations before us to meet our toughest challenges. Leaders who can help us show ourselves and the world that with our ingenuity, creativity, and innovative spirit, there are no limits to what is possible in America.
And moments of humor:
To my supporters, my champions — my sisterhood of the traveling pantsuits – from the bottom of my heart: Thank you.
I highly recommend watching it.
It was an excellent speech; I found myself very very impressed. I’d also recommend checking out Bob Casey’s speech (“that’s not a maverick, that’s a sidekick” … classic) and Montana governor Brian Schweitzer’s speech as well. A great second day of the convention!