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July 6, 2004 I will admit that my moderate Democrat stance meant that I had to bend greatly to find some common ground with Senator John Kerry. Originally, if only because of his energy and vitality, I was a Howard Dean man. I followed his internet campaign, listened to his speeches, and identified with a few facets of his New Progressivism. But, as the bumper sticker motto goes, “Dated Dean, Married Kerry.” I was wired like so many Democrats, anxiously awaiting Kerry’s e-mail revealing who his running mate would be. The New York Post ran a front-page story claiming Gephardt, then retracted it. It was exciting for me – Evan Bayh, our noble U.S. Senator, was being floated as the VP choice in the hours before Kerry’s word. But, mes amis, if I may speak a little Freedom (oh how everyone enjoys bashing the French even though it’s become childish and pointless now), Johnny Edwards est tres bon. Tres bon indeed. John Kerry finally made a decision I don’t have to bend to agree with. The winning formula is there – Edwards, the defender of les petites personnes, a down- home Democrat the GOP can only say is “too young” for office, “too inexperienced” to handle the office. Theodore Roosevelt and John Kennedy are high-fiving at some fundraiser in Heaven. Karl Rove is a smart man. I have respect for anyone who has the abilities that man has. He assessed early on the fact that Little Johnny E would be a threat to moderate swing states like his home South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Ohio and assorted southern areas if he nabbed the nomination for President or the Vice spot. After nearly a month of not advertising heavily, the Bush camp is expected to pour a deluge of cash into covering the “battleground” areas. Expect to see some money poured into “Red” states as well, such as Indiana, where Kerry attended a few events after announcing Edwards as his running mate. The last time the Hoosiers went blue, Lyndon Johnson was in office. Edwards, lack of experience or not, has a Clintonesque charm and charisma with none of the sex scandals, and a slightly Reaganeqsue optimism that may turn a moderate swing over to the Kerry side. Edwards, for his apparent youth, has done well to learn the art of preaching of those sunny days ahead. To the people, the common people – Republican Hoosiers even – Edwards seems like just another one of us. Bush’s own advisers have said they expect Kerry to gain a 15 point lead on Bush by the end of the month. The sound of the Bush Camp printing more $2,000-a-plate fundraiser invitations is growing in the distance. John Kerry, you made a wise choice, and the election is now yours to lose, barring perhaps another terrorist attack. Here’s to you, my friend, and to the Kerry-Edwards ticket coming to fruition in November. I’ll be right there in Boston when both of you state your cause and move on into election day. Good job. ------------ About the author: Max Burns lives in Indianapolis and interns with the Indiana Democratic Party. Visit The Rabid Demoncrat or read the fantasy-fiction novel "Alcardia". He is currently a junior at Lawrence North High School and is active in political clubs and associations. Email: MBurns_NS@hotmail.com Tell a friend about this site! ------------ |
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