Reply #19: I saw more of Dean last night

[neebob]

First I watched the debate with Dean and DK, thought they both looked great in that. At last, Dennis gets equal time. I thought Dean screwed up when he said he had people looking at an important issue that I can't recall now (early senior moment) and he couldn't figure it out. He should have said he hadn't figured it out yet.

Then I watched Dean's speech. Yeah, he seems angry at times, or maybe he's just super assertive. It doesn't bother me, but I suppose it would bother someone who likes Bush. What bothered me was his closing, where he said the power to change isn't in his hands but in yours (the audience's). Then he shouted, "You have the power!" about six times. It was as if he suddenly became enraged and turned on the audience. It felt disconnected from the rest of the speech.

I think you're right about Clark dumbing down. Still, he seems thoughtful, sincere, and relaxed. I really like the General, and that's something considering my usual distaste for militarism and regimentation and my tendency to agree with Kucinich on Iraq. I believe what Clark says, whereas I don't always believe Dean or Kerry, and I'm willing to set some things aside and give him a go. I think he's the one to beat Bush.

Edwards seems nice - maybe too nice - and believable, but not necessarily real to me. He seems self-conscious. Maybe it's the hand gestures, particularly the fist with the thumb extended. I need to spend more time listening to his message before I decide about him.