By David Terhune

Is it any surprise that Sarah Palin "electrified" the Republican convention with her acceptance speech as John McCain's running mate? Her public speaking skills were surely a major attraction for the Republican ticket, skills honed not only during her years of public service but also as a beauty pageant contestant and local television sportscaster. But beneath the polish and poise are her words, and on those we must focus. For me, two portions of her speech stood out - her belittling of Barack Obama's community organizing experience and her questioningof the Obama family's patriotism.

 

 
 
Governor Palin likened her government experience to Senator Obama's community organizing, except that Palin had "actual responsibilities." Community organizers have been the foundation of many great American movements, not the least of which was the Civil Rights movement. It certainly wasn't local politicians who inspired the brave acts that brought civil rights into the American and world spotlights. Palin's barb demonstrated a troubling lack of knowledge of the value of community organizing in this country.

Palin also pointed out how small town people are "always proud of America," a not-so-subtle reference to Michelle Obama's quote concerning her being proud of America "for the first time" as her husband's candidacy began to blossom. While Ms. Obama no doubt regrets this remark, the fact remains that the African American experience in the United States is markedly different than the white experience. With the record of community service and support the Obamas possess, questioning their patriotism and pride as a political maneuver is nothing short of insulting.

But it sure was a nice speech, wasn't it?

 
 
 
Governor Palin likened her government experience to Senator Obama's community organizing, except that Palin had "actual responsibilities." Community organizers have been the foundation of many great American movements, not the least of which was the Civil Rights movement. It certainly wasn't local politicians who inspired the brave acts that brought civil rights into the American and world spotlights. Palin's barb demonstrated a troubling lack of knowledge of the value of community organizing in this country.

Palin also pointed out how small town people are "always proud of America," a not-so-subtle reference to Michelle Obama's quote concerning her being proud of America "for the first time" as her husband's candidacy began to blossom. While Ms. Obama no doubt regrets this remark, the fact remains that the African American experience in the United States is markedly different than the white experience. With the record of community service and support the Obamas possess, questioning their patriotism and pride as a political maneuver is nothing short of insulting.

But it sure was a nice speech, wasn't it?