Barack Obama's Formal Acceptance Speech at the Democratic Convention

As a piece of political theatre it was spot on, the mammoth Stadium, the huge crowd, the raised stage, the columns, the streamers and fireworks; all were designed for the history books. Though the speech itself, in spite of some powerful moments, was not the soaring rhetoric for which he has become known. Instead, the opportunity was made to lay down some specific policy plans and instigate a defiant attack upon his adversary John McCain. Obama presented McCain as an out of touch, Washington insider who has had his day and wasted it; someone who is firmly linked to President Bush and no adherence to change. Obama, on the other hand, clearly used this opportunity to introduce himself as a man of the future and change.

As for policy, there were some eye-catching policies; such as the 95% tax cut for working families, and ending America’s dependency on oil within 10 years. Along with this were some personal moments. He placed himself clearly in line with the ‘American Dream’. There was hardly any mention of his Kenyan roots and more about the American people he has met along his journey.

Obama could have used this convention to lay down the gauntlet rhetorically towards McCain and he would have won hands down. However, he seemed to pass by the chance of a great speech to respond to two points of criticism he has faced; his lack of policy and flimsy attacks upon McCain. It seems that Obama is not as arrogant as many believe when they assume he has the White House in the bag already.