Demonstrations and Demographics

I was poised with my pen in hand as McCain began his speech. After 10 minutes I was already tired and wanting to go to bed. His speech was not the worst I've heard, but certainly not specific or inspiring. A more interesting part of the night was the protesters that were actually shown on camera. During Palin's speech, at least one Code Pink protester had been escorted out of the Xcel Center, but I didn't find out until my Estonian friend told me about it.

One sign held by a protester stated something like "McCain votes against veterans." That seems to be a bizarre claim since he himself is a veteran. Not to mention the Republicans like to remind of us his service every chance they get. However, the statement may have some substance.

As recent as this spring, McCain opposed an update to the GI bill that helps soldiers attend college and gain other training after their service. The senator said he opposed it because he thinks offering these benefits will encourage people to leave the military. Soldiers on the frontlines serving several extra years just because they have to in order to get their education benefits is sad and disrespectful. What about injured service members that are discharged early? I really don't know how they would be affected by a McCain GI bill.

Increasing funding for the war isn't popular, but most people believe in taking care of injured and sick veterans. McCain has voted against funding for veteran medical care many times. Just to mention one S. Amdt 3642 increased funding for outpatient care and treatment for veterans. Many other actions show McCain's lacking record on veteran's issues.

On a different note, the Republican Delegation had an interesting make up. The party that is supposedly more "in touch" with the American public doesn't show it by the people they invited to St. Paul. Ninety-three percent were white and 51% have a net worth over $500,000. This doesn't seem like an accurate picture of average Americans. According to the U.S. Census, average household income is around $50,000 well below the 1/2 million mark. As far as race, in 2006 74% of American identified as white.

So the Republican Convention is over and now we can really get this election started! This is when the debates start, signs go up in yards/windows and the nerves really kick-in.