| This morning's Master of Ceremonies is First Gentleman Dan Mulhern.
The first speaker is Gov. Phil Bredesen (D-TN). He drew comparisons between Michigan and Tennessee: our auto industry, our workers, our problems and our mutual concerns about get Democrats elected this November.
National Committeewoman Debbie Dingell wore her GM hat as she spoke to the crowd. Have you noticed all the convention's green vehicles around town proudly provided by GM? Our auto workers still build the best cars, have the greatest commitment and the make the greatest contribution.
Our Lion of the U.S House, John Dingell of Dearborn, spoke of returning the government of the people to the people. Too many things have been neglected by this administration.
George W. Bush only did two things for health care as President, both of them were vetos. Health care for all Americans must be a priority. It's imperative to level the playing field for the automotive industry. Toyota has $6000 per vehicle because of currency manipulations.
He ended with a thought from his father about the upcoming election
Don't send me to DC alone because I can't do anything by myself.
Gov. Duval Patrick of Massachusetts was next in the line up. He spoke of reviving the American dream and providing opportunities so people can lead better lives. We need to be on the ground and make it personal - have conversations with people. Americans need hope.
Congresswoman Carolyn Cheeks-Kilpatrick of Detroit spoke about our need for a single focus. She implored everyone to put their differences aside -- white, black, Detroit, out state, congressional district, female, male, who we supported for President, whatever --- please don't get distracted, or let anyone divide us over other issues. Rise up and make sure we have "One Michigan."
Next, we were all pleasantly surprised by the arrival of National Democratic Chair Gov. Howard Dean. He characterized Hillary Clinton's actions yesterday as courageous and said she put country above her personal ambitions.
Chairman Dean had two points of emphasis.
The first was health care for all Americans. In his opinion as a physician Barack Obama's plan is excellent. Providing health care for Michiganders is not only important to level the playing field for the Big Three, but also for small businesses. Michigan has a changing economy and we need to do things for small businesses because health care for owners and employees is one of the biggest obstacles.
Next, he answered the question "How will we win in Michigan?" The answer is grass roots politics. We must pay attention to all areas of our state including the rural ones and expand our base. For the first time in a long time voters are now willing to speak up and identify as Democrats.
He challenged everyone to knock on 25 doors three times between now and the election - neighbors talking to neighbors, building personal relationships. We must also lock up the vote early by encouraging early voting - at least two to three weeks before election day.
Congressman Barney Frank of Massachusetts was both energizing and humorous. He has such an interesting turn of phrase. When talking about the failed GOP plan "that the rising tides will lift all boats." His reply"
Rising tides will lift all boats but if you're standing in the water on your tip toes because you can't afford a boat then the water will go up your nose.
He talked about how 95% of Americans have lost purchasing power since 2001 - a statistic provided by the Bush administration, by the way. Frank warned about judicial appointments by the next administration and how frightfully close we are to a life time dominance in the courts by neo-conservatives.
Finally, he addressed concerns being floated that Hillary supporters would vote for McCain.
How could you consider voting for someone who stands against everything that HRC has worked for her entire life?
All in all, another great session with outstanding speakers and an energized crowd.
Note: We'll have pictures a little later.
The breakfast laster longer than usual and so did the daily press briefing. With the enormous crowds expected this evening we need to head out to Invesco Field now.
I'll offer some commentary via blackberry if possible, but in-depth analysis and the inside blow-by-blow will need to wait until we get back to our hotel room.
Wish luck and good weather. |
Good Morning and welcome back to BFM's continuing coverage of the 2008 Democratic National Convention.
