The Democratic National Convention begins today in Charlotte, North Carolina as the progressives and President Obama take the big stage to make their case for reelection. At stake, control of a deeply divided American country and population suffering through prolonged economic hardship and enduring relentless political attack advertising funded almost exclusively by unchained Super PACs. Today the Democrats lead off with the hugely popular Michelle Obama and hope to set the tone of what politics should look like.
More popular than her husband
The first lady is important because she represents what the Republicans have squandered away thanks to heartless remarks from the likes of Todd Akin and centuries of sexism, a connection with women. Michelle Obama has focused much of her efforts on fighting obesity and educating families about nutrition, a commendable cause that addresses one of the nation’s biggest (literally) problems. Tonight she will speak about the progress that has been made and her husband’s focus on connecting with everyday middle class Americans who are becoming more socially liberal but who still worry about the economy.
Her biggest asset will be how effortlessly she is liked by women, in stark contrast to Ann Romney’s speech at last weeks RNC where she pleaded with every type of woman — mothers, sisters, daughters — to trust Mitt Romney. Without having to do that, Michelle Obama can focus on her husband’s strengths while not sounding desperate.
Additionally, the Democrats will focus heavily on their social issues, a place where Republicans have been slipping into irrelevancy. Their platform aligns much more with the majority of the American people, and contrasts with the Republicans’ hatred of immigrants, minorities, women, gay people, and the poor. It is almost as if the Democrats don’t even need to come out and say it, the Republicans have done such a good job of distancing themselves from these groups that all that is needed from the Democrats is an understanding nod of the head, and a disappointed sigh.
