I just met AL GORE!

[StellaBlue]

Just got back from Al Gore's first US book tour talk in Houston, Texas, which was sold out at the Hobby Center. Saw the global warming slideshow (excellent). Enjoyed his delivery style (earnest yet sarcastic). Especially enjoyed the several standing ovations and the couple of times people yelled out ("Run, Al, run!" and "We need you!" from the upper seats).

When asked if he was going to run, during the staged Q&A (all questions asked by the host, off index cards), he said he was a recovering politician and he 'is not planning on running.' That was it. The program talks about his book, his background, then goes into a four-line reminder of the Clinton years ("presided over the longest period of economic growth in US history, managed the budget down to a zero deficit", etc.). My feeling? He's totally running.

When asked about Iraq, he said:

"This was the single worst strategic mistake in the nation's history."

and

"We need to get the troops home as soon as possible."

He also gave the corporations and lobbyists hell. Strong words about the auto and petroleum industries. That's the only thing that made me think maybe he isn't running. He went mildly Nader on us (which, IMHO, is a GOOD thing!). Overall, it was a tone of hope, as he emphasized that these changes present an OPPORTUNITY.

The best part was staying afterward to get our books signed. We saw Tipper, talking to some people (very friendly, approachable), but we didn't want to lose our spot in line. She was gone over to a small table where she was talking quietly with friends by the time our books were signed, so we didn't meet her (didn't want to interrupt).

So when we finally got to meet Al, we were line 30th from the end - and they sold all 1,000 copies of the book they had, I couldn't resist. He signed the book, then looked up and right at me, smiling, and I said, "We would really like the chance to re-elect you in 2008, I just have to say it." He put his hand over his heart and smiled (like he no doubt had the previous 970 times he'd heard that tonight) and said, "Thank you, thank you." I got a quick, blurred photo taken by my friend (not posed, just me shaking his hand - very reminiscent of JFK/Clinton, I told her! hahahahaha!), and that was that.

It was electric. I am so excited.

I am going to bed now, but I will be back midday tomorrow to answer any questions anyone who's curious might have, and to post the photo!!!

Love Al Gore. Love him.