In the end

Political Conventions have changed since my grandfather was a delegate to the 1956 Democratic Convention in Chicago, but in many ways a mid-century delegate might be surprised to see how much things have stayed the same.

In 1956, state delegations caucused at their hotels weighing votes as a group, sending messages back and forth to the convention chair before coming to the hall for official business. 1956 was the last time the vice presidential nomination was thrown to the floor for decision. Running mates were chosen by delegates (actually, by party Pooh-Bahs), not by the candidates. Clearly, the current tickets of both parties would be different if this was still the practice.

Thanks to the magic of the Internet, I was able to view some excellent television footage of the 1956 Democratic Convention in Chicago. (Unfortunately, I never caught a glimpse of the dignified delegate from Michigan.) Needless to say, the made-for-TV moment was in its infancy, but I saw a similarity to the mood and behavior of those in attendance then to those who attended the conventions this year.

The vintage footage shows a festive mood and a few comical moments. At one point, in an attempt to limit access to the floor, convention officers declared only delegates and members of brass bands would be granted access to the hall. Brass bands – and in one case, a square dance troop – were used by delegates and campaigns to whip up the crowd. Soon after the new rule was imposed, many folks who never played a single musical note could be seen carrying brass instruments so they could participate in the fracas on the floor.

Modern conventions may lack the drama of the backroom deals of days past, but they still serve a purpose. Our uniquely American political process depends on a single vital ingredient; we, the people. It was by becoming delegates to political conventions that many women were first able to rise to the national stage. Policy shifts on civil rights, changes in how America engages the world and many other crucial decisions of the times were kindled in the debates, discussions and crafting of party platforms at national conventions. This still happens and, one could argue, should still happen at these gatherings.

There is much fluff at modern conventions, but the gatherings of people from the far corners of our nation are, at times, more than sentimental tradition or a four day advertisement for presidential candidates. It is proof voters still hold the power the founding fathers envisioned.

We the people have squandered these opportunities from time to time, but the thousands who came to Denver and St. Paul demonstrate that power is there for the taking. The question to the millions who watched from afar and to every voter in the country is whether you will assume responsibility for electing people or shirk it by failing to cast a ballot.

Red Meat

Governor Sarah Palin delivered some verbal red meat. She was confident and came onto the national stage swinging. The Republican delegates loved it.

The hall was nearly full last night in anticipation of Palin’s introductory event as the VP nominee. Diligent campaign volunteers passed out hundreds of hand painted signs around the delegations to help set the mood. The signs had a few simple themes. “Palin Power” was the most prevalent message. My personal favorites were the “Hockey Moms 4 Palin” signs being held by men. A strapping guy from Texas and a grey haired delegate from Michigan waved their “hockey mom” signs most enthusiastically.

Republicans are proud to have a woman on the ticket, but I am sure two of the night’s more popular buttons being worn at the convention would make many women’s advocates cringe. One reads “Coldest state. Hottest governor.” Another said “McCain/Palin. I am voting for the hot chick.” I have to agree, I am not sure these help women much.

Last night was a good show - light on substance, high on rhetoric to whip up the base. It is exactly how modern conventions are designed.

A Little Straight Rock

Most of the Republican delegates are viewing today as the first official day of the convention and appear to be in high spirits.

The police and security presence in St. Paul seems equal to Denver, but the attitude is a bit stricter following yesterday’s unruly demonstrators who vandalized cars, broke the Macy’s window and roughed up a delegate or two. I was not in the fray when this happened, which is good for many reasons - had I been there when the police started discharging pepper spray, I probably would have wet myself.

Republican convention goers dress nicer than their Democratic counterparts. My blue blazer and open collar made me one of the better dressed last week. Before I head over tonight, I think I will put on a tie to make sure I better blend in with the GOP.

If you are looking for a lively discussion on the streets of St. Paul, mention Governor Palin’s pregnant daughter. People have strong opinions and are ready to debate. Some are offended the topic is even raised; while others passionately defend the Palin family’s handling of the matter. I have no idea whether delegates find this relevant to deciding whether or not they will vote to approve the Governor’s nomination, but I am sure the Governor’s daughter’s pregnancy (or the Governor’s handling of this personal family matter) is the most discussed topic in the Twin Cities.

I am still searching for the Republican equivalent to last week's Condomvention at the Democratic Convention. I have not found it yet, but tonight Governor Mike Huckabee and the Arkansas delegation are hosting “A Little Straight Rock” Concert. This baffles me. It would have been clever of the Arkansans to hold “A Little Rock Concert” as a play on the name of their capital city, but the word straight throws me. I may stop in. It may turn out to be many things, but I am convinced it won’t be a gay marriage rally.

GOP Rides Out the Storm

The Republican Convention is in a holding pattern as we wait and pray for the hurricane whipped Gulf Coast. The Twin Cities of Minnesota are acting as good hosts for Republicans who find themselves with a little less to do today.

Of course, this downtime leaves political geeks and gawkers ample time to speculate on the impact Mother Nature will have on the election. The 2008 Democratic and Republican Conventions were going to be different in countless ways and many people would have expended much hot air comparing and contrasting the events. (Insert your own joke about how these pontifications would add to global warming) However, the abbreviated GOP convention makes such comparisons even more difficult to make.

Last Thursday, 84,000 people packed a football stadium and some 38 million Americans tuned in to watch Senator Barack Obama give a speech. Even the McCain campaign would admit their numbers would have only been a fraction of this. The size of the viewing audiences may or may not portend anything, but now they are not even going to be considered. We will now, rightfully, look to help our countrymen in and around Louisiana. Much of the punditry agree this lack of contrast is good for McCain.