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The delegates responded to these other questions:
Can the platform process become more representative?
Is so much media coverage really necessary?
Kemp's "sea change" on immigration and affirmative action
A question from William Theuer of Anchorage, AK
I'd like to comment on Mrs. Dole's super presentation on the convention floor.
I don't expect this kind of presentation to be easily replicated It was truly an exceptional presentation and I don't think the combination of executive experience and personal relationship could possibly be duplicated.
Just enjoy the reality and don't pick it apart under a media microscope. Besides it really had little to do with the platform or policy like the proposed tax cut. The best thing about the presentation was how it touched the human spirit.
(editors' question: Newspaper commentators today called the speech "Liddy's Oprah show," describing it as a talk show format. Conservative Bill Kristol said, "from now on, all politics will be 'Donahue.' Was her folksy, casual performance last night appropriate for a political convention? What was your reaction to her presentation?)
Carl Tritschler - LA
I believe that Mrs. Dole's performance was indeed quite remarkable and was important because it brought forth the personal love that she feels for her husband. I was moved by her comments about Bob Dole's struggles through life and the positive feelings that exist for him among the people whose lives he has touched. It as therefore quite an "appropriate" speech.
Eric Koch - IN
William, I totally agree with you. She is a genuinely classy lady; what a contrast to Hillary! As for format, it was a brilliant idea and she is a natural for that type of interaction. Any critic should remember that Clinton used the "talk-show" format effectively in 1992. Involving the people from Dole's past was also an effective way to convey the "real" Bob Dole.Arthur Bruzzone - CA
Thanks for your comments. You got this right: From here on out, American politics will never be the same. In a few years, an Elizabeth Dole will greet you when you return home from work, and introduce her husband to you the way you would like to know her husband. Internet stacking capability could even create an audience that is most pleasant. The point is that informercials, talk shows, network, PBS broadcasting will allow a closer relationship with candidates and their wives, even through their wives' point of view. Heck, don't you feel you know Bill Clinton? He certainly feels your pain...through high tech polls conducted several times a day.Jason Brinton - UT
Her casual performance was more than appropriate for the circumstances yesterday. Her speech last night was about her husband's personal character, not his credentials or the issues. She is obviously in an excellent position to relate to the party delegates, and to the American people, the principles of her husband. Issues have been discussed all week and will again be discussed tonight. May I say Elizabeth Dole's speech was a breath of fresh air!
Robert MacDonald - VA
It was superb. No one expected that in the litany of scripted, prepared remarks that a speaker would leave the stage and engage the crowd so personally. Even though the presentation props were obviously planned, the ability to deliver her message in such a compelling manner without notes was a stroke of sheer brilliance. I doubt Mrs. Clinton could duplicate such a performance. Since Bob Dole has a rather bland public persona, and is perceived to lack warmth in his legislative style, it was particularly important for Mrs. Dole to introduce the loving and compassionate side of the man who would be President to the American public. I believe she may be remembered for giving the best speech of the convention.Judy Pennycook - CA
Elizabeth Dole is an incredible individual. Words cannot describe her presence, her articulate manner, and the way that she grabs the heart of the people. To see her in person communicate thoughts, actions, sentiments, is awe-inspiring. I had the rare pleasure of being one of the host committee which has her speak with the Salinas Valley agricultural community. She has grace, intelligence, and insight that is uncommon. She touches people physically in her remarks by being able to move freely through the audience. She is both natural and emotive, and rather than comparing her to a canned talk show program, I would prefer to compare her to someone we would all wish to emulate, yet someone with whom we could sit down at the kitchen table and discuss personal issues. I too would hope that the media would choose not to pick apart her presentation, rather that they would revel in it with all of the American people.Joyce Haas - PA
The presentation was the best any could possibly be. Having seen her in the past, this is her normal style. She almost never needs the prompter or notes. As far as the style of walking into the audience, remember the debates in 1992 with Bill Clinton. He walked to the audience in the debate! Liddy is a role model that any mother would be proud to have her daughter follow. She is bright, sincere and honest. She is a successful business woman who has maintained integrity.
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