Barack Obama has proven himself to be a new kind of presidential candidate--one that appeals to people from all walks of life, all colors and creeds. He maintains his own distinctly American story, but shares the small-town values of ordinary, decent Americans.
So where better to open his first field office in Ohio, than in a place called Middletown, at the corner of Main Street and Central Avenue? There may be no place more quintessentially in the middle of middle America, in the heart of the heartland.
But the symbolism was two-fold. Not only does Middletown represent the kind of down-on-its-luck small town that Barack's vision for America would aim to revitalize, it's also the kind of town that hasn't exactly voted for left-leaning candidates... in the past. The fact that the inaugural office opening in Ohio took place in an area like Middletown--where Butler County went for Bush over Kerry by a ratio of 66-34 in 2004--speaks to how broad-reaching Barack's appeal is, and how willing this campaign is to fight for every last vote. To make every one, and everybody, count.
And there were certainly a lot of votes that will count out in force last night. If you are a progressive in Butler county, the event was proof that there's no need to feel lonely anymore--almost 200 people were in attendance. You can read a proper write-up of the night here in the Middletown Journal, but suffice it to say that it's fortunate the office is right next to the Sorg Opera House, which was able to seat the large crowd as they listened to the presentation.
Among those who spoke were Regional Field Director Christen, and community leaders Jim and Glenda. Then, in smaller groups, field organizers talked to the local crowd about what they could do to get involved and make the rhetoric real--make the change desired by so many a reality.
The party continued next door in the office, where area supporter Julie had enlisted the talents of local artists to make some of the most impressive field office artwork ever seen. She had also arranged for the refreshments--deli sandwiches and a delicious salad were the order of the day. Oh, and there was a band too(!).
Such an amazing showing makes you stop and think about just how up for grabs, and down for change, Ohio is this year. 'Cause if it can happen in Middletown.... couldn't it happen anywhere?
Comments are closed for this post.
