Kerry in Philadelphia

Just because I lack credentials for the convention up in Boston (unlike my fellow Swat alum Jesse Taylor of Pandagon) doesn't mean I can't do a bit of political blogging.

Earlier this evening, John Kerry spoke on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Much of Kerry's speech focused on American values, and he insisted that actions reflect values far more than words and outlined the actions that he plans on taking if elected. You can read the details of his platform at Kerry's website, but here's a quick rundown of the topics he covered today:

- The war on terror. Kerry vowed to make America stronger at home and more respected in the world. He believes that America should only go to war when it needs to, never when it just wants to. When force is needed, he will not hesitate to use it.

- Loss of jobs overseas. Kerry plans to end tax subsidies to companies who shift their labor forces overseas.

- Healthcare. Kerry wants all families to have healthcare that's just as good as that enjoyed by Washington, D.C. politicians, "the best in the world."

I, for one, would have appreciated a deeper exploration of Kerry's policies, but rallies aren't really the place for that. The principles were on display today, and they were principles I can get behind.

As for the presentation...

John Kerry is no Bill Clinton. But you already knew that. But I was pleasantly surprised at just how effective he was in presenting his message.

Four years ago I saw George W. Bush on the campaign trail in Media. John Kerry came across as far more genuine, at ease, and in touch with the crowd. It's possible (even likely) that the four years of Bush's presidency has colored my memory and cast Kerry in a more favorable light. But I can't imagine Bush responding respectfully (even jovially) to people in the crowd interrupting his speech, as Kerry did today.

The jokes were a bit dopey, but self-consciously so... at one point, in drawing comparisons between himself and John Edwards, Kerry pointed to three similarities: 1) They're both named John. 2) They're both lawyers. 3) People named John Edwards the sexiest politician in America. John Kerry reads People. Sure, you knew a cheesy punchline was coming, but so did John Kerry, which somehow makes it okay.

Kerry barely mentioned Bush. Off the top of my head, I can only recall one definite time that he actually said "Bush," though there were probably at least a few others. In any case, Kerry succeeded in presenting a positive vision for America, not just a critique of Bush's policies. He could have played to the anti-Bush sentiment rife in the crowd. He didn't.

At the beginning of his speech, Kerry admitted that he hadn't run up the Art Museum steps, but that he's going to deliver the knockout punch. If he maintains this tone and message, I think he's right.

On a final note... the rally gets bonus points for reminding me how fantastic "Johnny B. Goode" is.