Packed
A friend in town asked me what I was doing tonight and convinced me to hop in a convertible and drive with his partner and a friend up north an hour and a half to Springfield, Ohio to hear Kerry and Edwards helm a midnight rally.
Weather was perfect for my first political outing. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a president or presidential hopeful speak. I now know why it costs so much to keep the political machine greased. Men on top of buildings with walkie talkies. Cops at every intersection and on-ramp from the highway. Lights, PAs, cherry pickers. Lots of heavy duty event planning here.
The line to get within the boundaries of the event stretched beyond a mile in my best estimation. The longest line I’ve witnessed, and easily, a line I knew I would not stand in.
We got a great view behind the police tape and barricades, back by the Bush protesters. The protesters who, when not chanting four more years, would boo.
“We need healthcare for every American!” Kerry said.
“Booooooooooo” said the Bush folks.
“People want jobs in this country, and we need to create them!” Kerry said.
“Booooooooooo” said the Bush supporters.
If only they’d listen to what they were booing for. Getting people to listen is one thing. Getting them to think, for themselves, something else entirely.
I’m more than a bit sad about politics, but I suppose it reflects who we are. I’m sad we don’t have passionate, inspiring leaders. I’m sad that the candidates don’t linger on solutions outside of war. Hell, I’m sad about a lot of things.
But for a moment there in the not so big town of Springfield Ohio last night, I felt patriotism swell a little bit inside myself. Barring the very small number of loud protesters in the back region, there was a most excellent vibe.
I’m voting for Kerry at this point. And I get real upset when I see Bush signs and supporters. I just want ONE, just one Bush backer, to come up to me and have a frank, intelligent discussion about why they will vote for him.
I want to listen.
And I don’t want regurgitation from the TV, I want a personal viewpoint. I want to know why the country is better off if we give him four more years.
Until that point in time, I’ll vote for any sort of change I can.
