I know I am simply asking for it in writing this blog, but I have to let off steam. Why did I start and finish my day yesterday defending Jennifer Ganholm’s speech the night before? She hit a home run, giving a passionate, spirited, dead-on speech that energized the convention hall. Had she been a … Continue Reading →
Like tens of thousands of other people, I will leave Charlotte this week feeling inspired. This has been an incredible opportunity for an honest, full discussion about the forces that have been hollowing out America’s middle class for a generation. Now that inspiration must translate into action. Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan truly believe there … Continue Reading →
Since June 2009, Michigan has added more than 32,000 auto industry jobs, and the Center for Automotive Research estimates that the industry will add a total of 15,000 jobs in Michigan in 2012. This remarkable resurgence was a result of bold political policy and unprecedented collective bargaining partnerships. I am glad that this incredible victory … Continue Reading →
First Lady Michelle Obama’s inspiring convention speech last night was more than just personal story of the American Dream as experience by one family; it laid out a vision for what we owe each other as American citizens.
Wow, what a night! I get nervous for any political spouse when they are front and center. It is a difficult place to be: you love your spouse, you want to help them, and people don’t really know what they want you to be. Someone like Michelle has had her own career, knows and understands … Continue Reading →
Mayor Cory Booker gave the first big speech and he brought down the house with this line: “Being asked to pay your fair share in taxes is not class warfare. It’s patriotism.” The crowd burst into applause and then repeatedly chanted, “U-S-A! U-S-A!” before Booker could speak again. Mayor Booker was referring to the Democratic … Continue Reading →
Watching the DNC on C-SPAN. I’m clearly biased but wow, what a different vibe at this convention. Joy and enthusiasm instead of anger and fear. And the choice could not be made clearer than it is here tonight. The city of Charlotte produced a promo for the DNC that made an important point: A video … Continue Reading →
Some people dismiss modern political conventions as a waste of time. Why go through the trouble and expense if the presidential nominee has already been decided? Before the television cameras even began rolling at the DNC today, I got my answer. This morning I enjoyed the opportunity to address the Michigan delegates over breakfast. I … Continue Reading →
Although I have been active in politics for most of my adult life, this is the first national convention I’ve attended. I am excited to participate because the choice for working families this election cycle couldn’t be clearer. Watching the Republican National Convention last week, we received a very sharp vision of a past that … Continue Reading →
I arrive in Charlotte in a pensive mood, remembering conventions of past — the energy, the excitement, the passion of being involved in the political process; that feeling you were part of something big; the attitude you could change the world; the view that the future was endless with opportunity and hope. As I said … Continue Reading →