Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Lieberman at Republican Convention: Smart Move

From Politico:

Joseph I. Lieberman is slated to speak to the Republican convention on its opening night next month, according to two Republican sources familiar with the planning.

The Democrat-turned-independent will appear on stage at St. Paul on Monday, the “service” night of the convention.

The news comes as evidence strongly suggests Lieberman is under consideration to be McCain’s running mate. Well-placed sources warned, however, not to overinterpret the night of Lieberman’s address. The vice presidential nominee is to address the convention Wednesday, but, as with the Democratic convention, the speaking slots for the contenders may change depending on who is tapped.

...The Connecticut senator will speak on the same night as President Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney.

I think it's smart to have Lieberman speak on a night when there's likely to be a large audience.

It makes sense. Lieberman is likely to appeal to Independents and moderate Democrats, and they're likely to be watching.

I doubt that Lieberman's appearance will resemble the performance of Zell Miller at the 2004 Republican National Convention.

Lieberman will probably seem like he's under sedation compared to Miller's red-faced delivery.

Still, it's a good move to have Lieberman speak. Giving him a spot at the convention indicates that McCain wants to reach out to all Americans.

Conservatives who are troubled by pro-abortion Lieberman's support for McCain should get a grip.

The fact is some Americans will give their votes to the candidate they see as most qualified to deal with national security, that being the issue that matters most to them. McCain is clearly the best choice.

I think it's a terrible mistake for conservatives to want to completely reject Lieberman and turn him away. He's not going to be McCain's running mate.

However, he can be a big help in getting McCain elected.

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