Reply #5: I know how you feel

[Fla Dem]

In the circles I move in, there are very few instances when any mention is made of the election and/or the candidates. I'm not sure this is much different from other years. I think there was a lot of general discussion during the Clinton elections because his escapades (real or RW conspiracy) were all over the news. I also think the RW talk programs have had a profound effect in making any reasonable discussion of issues impossible. Most commited Repugs spout chapter and verse what they have been brain washed to believe by Rush, Hannity, Boortz, O'Reilly etc. They are not open to accepting any other viewpoint and just want to yell their scripted venom at you. I know I will not discuss any political subject with anyone with whom I do not know their political standing. One, I do not want to get into a shouting match, and two, probably not going to change their minds. Most of my discussions are with family and friends.

You are right about the DNC Convention. For the most part preaching to the choir. But I think the introduction of Elizabeth Edwards, Teresa Heinz Kerry, and the Kerry family was a first step toward people getting to know them. I also think Kerry's speech was an important first introduction to people who haven't paid all that much attention to the primaries. Not everyone is so focused on politics like us.

There are very few voters who have not already made up their minds. There may be a few Dems who are scared about the war on terror and think it's best to stay the course. Those you may be able to convince that Kerry will do a better job or at least as well. And there may be a few moderate Repugs who think Bush has gone way over the top with his religiosity influencing his decisions, his poor fiscal management, his handling of the war. If Kerry can impress them they might come over to the light. Then there are only about 10% of registered voters (this election a very low percent)who feel no strong alliance to either party, but look at elections like a buffet. They pick and choose either by issues or personalities or a combination of both. Whoever gets the most check marks on their list they'll vote for.

C-span is always your best bet for getting comprehensive campaign coverage. I actually like to watch an event as if I'm there and not have some 2-bit self proclaimed analyst telling me what I should think.

Also, don't forget the debates are coming up. IMHO this is when most undecideds and fence sitters make their decisions. Nixon lost to Kennedy in the debates, Regan beat Carter in the debates, Clinton beat GHWB and Dole in the debates, and GWB exceeded expectations in the debates, which if he hadn't, the election would never have been close. So I'm waiting for the debates. That's when the rubber will meet the road.