John Schueler is on the ground in Missouri, where yesterday he reported on the growing numbers of Republicans of Obama . . .
While the balloons dropped at the Republican National Convention, everyday Americans gathered at a VFW hall in Lee’s Summit, Missouri to discuss issues that affect Americans across party lines. What made this particular forum unique was not the setting or the topics discussed, as these types of political gatherings take place every day across the state. It was the attendees themselves that set this a part, because the bulk of them typically consider themselves Republicans.
I was a Republican because I believe in conservative values and I put family first.... Now I want to elect Senator Obama for the sake of my grandsons.
That sentiment was expressed by Bobbie Queen, who supported Bush both times he ran, but is now committed to electing Barack Obama. She expressed her displeasure for the current leadership of the Republican Party.
I resent the fact that they think we're a bunch of whiners because we don't make $4 million a year. I live pay check to pay check and I work hard… I've never felt like anything I could do or say would make a difference. Those people were just too big and too far away to care. It's different with Obama. I just know he cares about people like us.
Also on hand was former Congressman Jim Leach, a Republican from Iowa who recently endorsed Senator Obama and spoke at the Democratic National Convention. He shared his reasons for throwing his support behind Barack and laid out the simple economics for all in attendance.
Barack Obama's policies will reduce taxes on the middle class much more than the policies of Senator McCain. McCain's policies will reduce taxes for the highest income earners and particularly for the oil industry.
The lies and distortions that had filled the airwaves for the past few days didn’t seem to faze or discourage the voters in attendance. If anything it strengthened their resolve. Jim Leach summarized the essential difference between the two candidates, and the reason that so many long time Republicans were embracing a Democrat for the first time. "Barack Obama understands the Midwest."
Comments are closed for this post.
