[I don’t think I’m very good at this; feels like ‘taking minutes’ at a meeting, which I always hated.]
Affirmative Action. Kerry is taking a strong stance here, we have not come far enough. Bush says we ought to have "an aggressive effort" to be sure people are educated. Talks about small business support. The "ownership society."
To Bush on faith. "I pray a lot." But says "I’m mindful that in a free society, you are free to worship, or not." He seems to mean this. He says faith "sustains me." Again, he seems sincere. "Armies of compassion." [ouch] "I believe God wants everyone to be free."
Kerry expresses respect for the President’s faith, and refers to his own. Now he brings up education: separate and unequal education system in this country.
Kerry compliments Bush on his speech after 9/11, bringing us all together as Americans. But says Bush subsequently became a divider. Promises to find the common ground. Says he will work with John McCain to clean up campaign financing.
Bush says Washington is a tough town. Points out that we’ve been in a divided time for a long time. Points out that McCain supports him for president.
Bush has a great response to question "What have you learned from the strong women around you?" — "To listen to them." Really great response.
For the first time tonight, I see the Bush that some people love and trust — sincere, emotional, principled. He is doing much much better this time.
Kerry makes a self-deprecating comment about marrying up. Wow, almost tops Bush by quoting his mother: Integrity. Integrity. Integrity.
***************************************************
Kerry gives a presidential closing statement; Bush does a low-key, more personal statement, but seems to trail off a bit at the end.
Leave a Reply