Here’s to hoping the words and the delivery are up to the potential for the occasion.
Does the choice of person to deliver the Republican response even have to be a member of congress? It is after all not a Constitutionally defined or necessarily anticipated arrangement. Should it be thought of as provision for the response of one party of congress or the opposing party speaking to the American people? I would prefer the latter understanding which certainly does not eliminate a sitting member of congress but opens it up.
Having said that, Ernst is a good choice if her delivery is as good as the words. That has not always been the case. That is true of Chuck Grassley and Terry Branstad as well. Thankfully, after a while the voting public relates to them, their sincerity comes through, the colloquial mannerisms, not always compelling even where they are colloquial, are ignored.
Lincoln, one of the most profound and effective orators of the ages, was of course a Republican. He is said to have had a face for radio and a voice for newspapers so words are important. His gift, in that respect was the content, succinctness, universality and wisdom of his speeches. So words are important. But he knew how to deliver a speech effectively and play to the image that worked when useful. His image also preceded him, back woods rail-splitter and all. Sen. Ernst has achieved an image in Iowa (or arguably effectively denigrated Braley’s with his help) and in that combination won a statewide election.
Joni Ernst’s authenticity was key to getting her elected but that took time to portray. We would not have wanted her or the party judged on her first speech or, even some intermittent and later ones. But tools and time to show her as the person she is will not be available that night. A good crafted speech that indicates that the Republican party will defend the wisdom of the Constitution whose limitations on government are there in order to best provide for the general welfare is more important to me anyway, but a top of her game delivery is going to be very helpful to the transmission of the message nationwide. Lets hope both elements are there tomorrow night. R Mall
Wondering how many will use the occasion to ‘snark’ about her hairdo !
My mistake. I was reminded that Governor Jindal gave the Republican reply I believe after the first Obama SOTU speech. None for me have been memorable (member of Congress or not). They really have a lot of time to write the speech, and practice it (it is not that hard to predict Obama and regardless, we should be advocating the Republican agenda and fulfillment of promise made. I should have said we can try a non-office holder, look for an effective communicator, wherever. Sufficient gravitas comes in many forms and functions.