Hillary & Obama: It's On in Selma, AL

I just listened to most of both Obama and Clinton's speeches today in churches in Selma, AL. And wow, they both did a great job. Here, briefly, are my thoughts:

• Obama is a far better speaker, more charismatic, and makes a better point.


• Clinton impressed me in her display of what she's learned from Bill in terms of speaking to your audience - at times, she had a pseudo Southern accent going (from her days as first lady of Arkansas) that sounded about as Southern as Madonna's British accent - but it was enough so that the people were feeling it.


• Clinton also impressed me by possitively commenting on Obama's run for office - in the context of isn't-it-wonderful-that-civil-rights- means-he-and-I-can-both-run. Plus, no attacks from either today.


• Overall, I liked Obama's speech better - his actually had something to say other than isn't-it-great-we're- all-here-today-yay-civil-rights!-but-there's-more-to-do! -and-oh-yeah-the-current- administration-sucks. That was the thrust of his speech - but he took it farther, by encouraging and inspiring everyone listening to make the choice to overcome personal obstacles and help change the world by changing yourself. Yes, he was referencing Dr. King directly, but he was almost as moving. His speech left everyone in motion - moving towards something, something better, in a way Hillary's couldn't touch.