Harkin Steak Fry

Gene and I went to the Harkin Steak Fry with my mom and Bob today. It was one of the first political events I have attended since the 2004 causes. We got there early so we could get seats. Six of the eight democratic presidential candidates were there, so it was a great opportunity to hear what they each had to say. As we were walking up, the Obama camp had rented out an entire park to rally before the speeches. It was kind of confusing because the actually steak fry was across the street and over a hill, so it looked like Obama was hosting the steak fry. It was also a bit ostentatious since the event was supposed to be about Harkin and all the candidates - not just Obama.

There were supporters for all six candidates, as well as Dennis Kucinich who was conspicuously not invited to the event. After local democratic officials spoke, Senator Tom Harkin introduced the first speaker.

Senator Barack Obama spoke first and gave a very nice speech. HE was very enthusiastic and energetic, but he didn't really say anything specific. I was kind of disappointed in the fact that all he talked about was that he was a change and that was what was needed. He never said anything about his specific plan - which leads me to believe that he doesn't have one. He is really personable, dynamic, and genuine, but I felt that he was unfocused.

Governor Bill Richardson spoke next, and I was really, really, really impressed with him. He had sensible, concrete plans for it seemed like everything - health care, education, Iraq. I was really impressed with his education reforms. He was the only one to talk about NCLB stating that he'd repeal it! He also said that he'd set a nation wide minimum wage for teachers at $40,000. He had the most positive, realistic plans of any of the candidates. He also has a ton of experience - diplomatic experience. He's been nominated for the friggin' Nobel Peace Prize - four times! He also said that he would announce his cabinet before he was elected, and he would have people who knew what they were doing in the postings - a teacher as head of education, a vet as head of veterans affairs, etc. I would really like to see him win the nomination, but I doubt he will because he doesn't have the name recognition that other candidates do. So, instead, I really hope he gets nominated as the vice presidential candidate.

Senator Hillary Clinton spoke next and just repeated her commercials. I was definitely not impressed with her. Her entire premise was "I'm married to Bill and we had it good as a nation when he was president." The major thing I disliked was her coldness and hypocrisy. She spoke at length about how if she was president then there were would be no "invisible people." But, when she shakes your hand she looks right through you - I felt like I was invisible to her - nothing but a number. That really turned me off - she seemed like just another Washington politician - cold and uncaring. All of her supporters also left right after she spoke which was beyond tacky. The entire crowd was muttering at their rudeness.

Senator Chris Dodd spoke fourth, and I can't really say that much about him. He was great - he wasn't bad. He was just, meh.

Senator John Edwards was fifth, and I thought he really delivered a good message as well. He has the enthusiasm and dynamism of Obama and the plans of Richardson. He was also the only one whose spouse accompanied them to the rally.

This is getting long, so keep it short.

Senator Joe Bidden was last. He was very eloquent, and had some very good points. I think his experience is also in his favor.

So, those are my opinions on the six democratic candidates I saw. I haven't really had time to look up a lot of info on them, but now I know who I favor and who I don't.