Guestblogging the AARP Debate

Last night's Dem AARP debate did not get the kind of publicity or coverage that most of the gatherings of top-tier candidates have gotten. It didn't even get all the top-tier candidates (not that I think Obama was greatly missed, Mike Gravel even less so). But some people paid attention to the health care-focused gathering of Edwards, Clinton, Dodd, Biden and Richardson. My father -- a member of both the AARP and the NRA, a former career-track Army officer and Shirley Chisholm voter, Burning Man attendee and currently a visiting professor of actuarial science at the University of Manitoba -- was one of them. Our correspondence below:

From: Sam Cox

To: Cox, Ana Marie

Subject: Dem debate

Sent: Thursday, September 20, 2007 10:05 PM

I loved it. I like all of them, but I think Edwards is my favorite. Like most Americans, in 2008 I will vote for any Democrat versus any Republican. Including John McCain, the only R I would ever consider voting for.

Watched it even tho TAMU was playing Miami, but then the game was not available on Winnipeg TV. The internet version just gives the score, really, and the Aggies are in trouble.

Love,

Sam

From: Cox, Ana Marie

To: Sam Cox

Subject: Dem debate

What was so good? I *totally forgot* about it...

From: Sam Cox

To: Cox, Ana Marie

Subject: Dem debate

Hey, how could you forget? I was thinking you might live blog.

Why I liked it? Lots of good constructive proposals [No wonder the MSM avoided it! -- Ed.] , things the country needs, and good attacks on Bush. So good to hear people cheer when the R s are questioned. Solid AARP support, although not all of us are Dems.

Biden on what to do in Iraq.

Edwards generally on domestic issues [here he is on health care, poverty, and working families]. He is the only one of those who is proud to be pro union, pro people. And he sounds so good. No wonder he made millions as trial lawyer.

Hilary stomped right down the middle of the road.

She is the most conservative of all of them, ironic that the right fears her the most.

Biden said one of the five on stage would be pres in 2009. I agree,

Sam

He also let me know that he left his rifles with my uncle Rick in Texas. Good to know.

UPDATE: He adds that he also liked Clinton and Edwards on health care reform, "Richardson's balanced budget proposal to amend constitution," and "each of them will get us out of Iraq. Some faster than others. I think the people want us out and the politicians are continually under estimating how strongly people feel about this." As far as I know, Sam does not keep a diary over at Kos. These missives from the frozen north serve the same purpose, maybe...