10.23.2008

RNC Rally Today

Okay, as a registered Republican, I'm a little disturbed by today's events.

Hobart Arena, here in Troy, hosted a Republican rally today, with guest speaker Sarah Palin.

The business we own is right on the main drag between Interstate 75 and Hobart Arena.

Naturally, the whole street was shut down for the half hour before Palin's arrival. Since there wasn't much going in or out of our store, I left my delivery driver inside and went out to await the caravan of police, Palin, and assorted press-groupies.

Funny, Troy police cars flying up and down the street, lights flashing. Nothing apparently wrong, maybe they just wanted to blow off some steam, too.

Anyway, here comes the line-up. State Police truck in the front, then Palin's gold-colored Suburban. There's probably no more than 20 people out waiting. But Palin flys by, eyes firmly on her lap (or maybe her speech notes, let's give the girl a little cred). Barricades go up, and it's business as usual.

Fast forward 2 hours, the street gets quiet again. Not much notice this time, but I'm back out at the curb, waiting. The State Police go by, then Palin's truck. Of course, I'm waving like a goofball. But Palin's eyes are again firmly planted into her lap. No speech notes excuse this time.

My question is, with the McCain/Palin approval rating being where it is, and being smack in the middle of Bush country, why wasn't she trying just a little harder to connect with the people who so obviously would have been grateful for just a hint of acknowledgement? It would have gone a long way towards making a few people happy, people who cared enough to be standing outside in less-than-balmy weather, just to catch a glimpse of her and be inspired anew.

I'm just left feeling disappointed.

I'm voting Republican this primary. Obama is pro-choice, and as a person I can't side with that. But I'm left to wonder, if both Obama and McCain stood on the same side of that issue, would I still vote Republican?

3 comments:

  1. You bring up some great points in this post. I am surprised she wasn't being a little more friendly and reaching out more.

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  2. Dear Emily,
    I came across your blog when I was searching for something else on Google. I was feeling a little bit similarly yesterday AT the rally when I was not satisfied with my seats. But you know what- I had to remind myself that there is more at stake in this election than my hurt feelings and disappointments that can't be pinned on any one person. The importance of this election is so much bigger than myself and the people at the forefront of this literally have the weight of the world on their shoulders. Don't be discouraged! Pray for them! Then we can be in the trenches with them as supporters and a line of help!

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  3. Laura, I completely agree. This election is so much bigger than my feelings, or one person's (lack of) reaction to the public.

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