So I only caught a few snippets of the RNC last night, mainly just Mitt Romney's speech and the numerous shots of the cheering crowd waving their "Country First" and "Prosperity" signs. Based on those signs and Romney's speech blasting any and all government programs that benefit those in need, what I gathered is that the Republican platform (once again) boils down to:
1. Nationalism
2. Greed/Consumerism
3. Screw the poor
I'm sure there's a little more to it than that, but that's the take-home message I came away with.
Labels: politics
I find the RNC and the DNC to be virtually identical on these things. For example, Obama specifically responded to the "country first" slogan, saying he too put country first.
"My definition of putting country first is making sure that we are safe, not hesitating to strike against our enemies. But it also means making our economy strong, because ultimately, if our economy is strong, then our military will be strong, and we will be able to secure our homeland for many years to come."
That sounds like it comes straight from the lips of a Republican.
Ultimately, I find very little difference between what Republicans and Democrats want (economic prosperity, "security," strong military, etc.). The main difference between the two parties is how they plan on doing those things.
And seeing as how I don't want to go to the ultimate destination that either party wants to take us, the route they take to get us there is quite insignificant to me.
At 9/04/2008 11:51:00 AM, 
Helen
I posted some comments about Sarah Palin's speech and my feelings about her as a candidate on my blog.
I thought it was more of a show than a substantive speech.
And let's not forget that being a community organizer is not really work yet being a small town mayor is not a sign of lack of experience, but being a "maverick".
They are being so two-faced with Palin it's nauseating. As an independent, they sure have not swung me over to their side. It's transparently disingenuous.
I had a strange urge to tune in for the festivities last night, but luckily sated it by watching Doctor Who instead.
But I'm right with you: when I see the way they act and talk, all I can think is what a bunch of nationalists they are. And it irks me that they are allowed to co-opt the word "patriotism" for their heinous schemes.