Friday, March 10, 2006
SRLC 4:15 P.M. CST
Wrapping up the first session of speakers were Minnesota's Norm Coleman and Louisiana's David Vitter. Senator Coleman first spoke of his leaving the Democratic Party - or, as he put it, the party leaving him. Coleman spent much of his speech attacking the Clinton presidency, stating that President Clinton failed to see the economic reality that was occurring (which led to the dot-com busts and the exporting of American jobs overseas) and then failed to have a foreign policy of substance. The three main issues of our time, according to Coleman, are embracing our exceptional Americanism (basically the accentuation of our greatest character strengths), finding diversity of leadership, and formulating an uncompromising foreign policy.
Where Coleman made waves were in a few tangential remarks. First, he called for Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the United Nations, to resign, which drew a standing ovation from the crowd. Second, he certainly drew a reaction from me with a crack against NASCAR fans. Third, he reiterated that the Democrats are not in a good position heading into the mid-term elections, because, "You can't bean something with nothing." The lack of message coming from the Democrats is certainly a theme in Memphis this weekend.
Senator David Vitter gave a speech that centered on classical conservative ideology. Unfortunately, Senator Vitter was rather wooden in his delivery, resulting in a perceived disconnect with the audience. While I liked his message (especially his introduction, which differentiated between conservatives and Republicans), he just didn't have that spark exhibited by Romney or even Alexander.
I loved his message, though. Vitter showed his Christian views, stating that "there are no anonymous Christians. As Christians, we must all live our faith."
Vitter admitted that he is much like the average delegate at SRLC, searching for the next great President of the United States. In making such a decision, Vitter stated that we need someone who is willing to undertake "conservative reform." By that, he cited smaller government, a more focused government, a pro-life devotion that is aimed at ending the culture of death, immigration reform that rejects amnesty for illegal aliens, judicial constructionists, and standing with the people and not the social class that attempts to unduly influence the political process. Vitter rejected moderation - "selling out" - to win elections. Again, his message was on-point. His delivery, however, was not working this afternoon.
Where Coleman made waves were in a few tangential remarks. First, he called for Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the United Nations, to resign, which drew a standing ovation from the crowd. Second, he certainly drew a reaction from me with a crack against NASCAR fans. Third, he reiterated that the Democrats are not in a good position heading into the mid-term elections, because, "You can't bean something with nothing." The lack of message coming from the Democrats is certainly a theme in Memphis this weekend.
Senator David Vitter gave a speech that centered on classical conservative ideology. Unfortunately, Senator Vitter was rather wooden in his delivery, resulting in a perceived disconnect with the audience. While I liked his message (especially his introduction, which differentiated between conservatives and Republicans), he just didn't have that spark exhibited by Romney or even Alexander.
I loved his message, though. Vitter showed his Christian views, stating that "there are no anonymous Christians. As Christians, we must all live our faith."
Vitter admitted that he is much like the average delegate at SRLC, searching for the next great President of the United States. In making such a decision, Vitter stated that we need someone who is willing to undertake "conservative reform." By that, he cited smaller government, a more focused government, a pro-life devotion that is aimed at ending the culture of death, immigration reform that rejects amnesty for illegal aliens, judicial constructionists, and standing with the people and not the social class that attempts to unduly influence the political process. Vitter rejected moderation - "selling out" - to win elections. Again, his message was on-point. His delivery, however, was not working this afternoon.
Permalink posted by Rob Huddleston @ 5:15 PM 
