The Republicans at the convention loved her. Her speech also managed to upset me with, what I thought, were unfair characterizations of Obama. That’s the sign of a good convention speech.
What’s interesting though, is the the independents on the Detroit Free News voter panel were much, much tougher on her speech than the Democrats.
Comments
Well, I guess you could say that. In this day and age, though, it's impossible to know how much she had to do with that speech besides the delivery. (Speaking of which - is it just me, or is her voice really REALLY grating? That's a non-partisan opinion. I'd think the same of her if she passed me on the sidewalk having a conversation.)
Back to the point, though... Having seen or heard some of her speeches in other venues, and knowing the delicacy and importance of her big stage appearance at this convention, I'd be shocked if she were allowed to write her own speech. Don't forget Rove: He's managing McCain's campaign, and he may be a bastard but he's a meticulous bastard and he wouldn't risk the campaign on such an unknown.
Posted by: Thinman | September 4, 2008 9:46 PM
She had 37 million viewers...just short of Obama's 38 million.
Posted by: Flick | September 4, 2008 11:55 PM
Yes, her voice is somewhat grating. She's no Lynne Thigpen, but it's not that bad.
While I agree that she probably didn't write her speech, she still had to perform it -- something that Bush has never quite mastered. On the biggest stage imaginable, she never wavered, appeared nervous or stumbled. That's what I was referring to as "good."
As in, if she can maintain those qualities over the next two months without them getting old or annoying, she could have a real shot at the nomination in 2012.
Posted by: hellx | September 5, 2008 10:47 AM
Updated Nielsen numbers:
McCain 38.9
Palin 37.2
Obama 38.3
Biden 24
Olympic Opening Ceremonies 32
American Idol finale 31.7
Posted by: Flick | September 5, 2008 4:29 PM
I was momentarily wishing that we were still a Nielson family and then realized that we don't have television reception so would not have altered those figures at all.
Posted by: plantnerd | September 5, 2008 5:10 PM