I can't say I watched much of either convention (although I watched much of the final night of the Democratic), but I spent a fair amount of time reading speech transcripts and articles commenting on the speeches.

I was struck by one thing--the Republican themes were very negative, not just about Obama but about the country as a whole. And much of what they were saying didn't fact check. Where the whole thing really fell down was when neither Romney, Ryan or anyone else made any sort of positive policy proposals.

In fact, they seemed to be holding back and not telling their audience about how bad it would be. It wasn't inspiring, but disturbing. I didn't hear any chatter from my right wing co-workers about what a great convention it was, or what great speeches, or what great candidates they have.

The Democrats, on the other hand, gave fiery speeches that that outlined what had been done, what would be done, and acknowledged that there was a lot left to do. It was positive.

And that I think is the difference. Conventions are highly scripted affairs these days, but they are time when both parties have the opportunity to present what they're planning to do; what their ideas are; what needs to be done.

The Republicans failed to do that. They spent all of their time attacking the Democrats and the last few years. Even conservative commentators criticized Romney and Ryan for not laying out any clear policy initiatives. They talked of threats, fear, those evil liberals--but there wasn't any moving speeches about how they would make it better. No path was described. It was strangely flat in the same way the entire campaign has been. Strangely unfocused. Awkward like their leading man.

The Democrats, on the other had were excited and energized and each speaker was somehow better than the last. It was a really good convention.

I think even those elusive independents are coming over now. There's very little to latch on to with the Republicans and what there is is bad.

I think Obama has this one now. But I'm still very worried that we've have a paralyzed legislature filled with crazies and obstructionists.

I decided I wasnt going to vote. The Healthcare debate really did it in for me and my love of Obama. I was a single payer fan. I felt lied to by Obama and as time went on I became more and more disappointed in him. But eventually I looked at the ACA as a pretty good first step. I do like a few provisions like taking away the lifetime cap and doing away with pre-existing conditions.

Anyway I still wasn't going to vote but then I watched the democratic convention. I felt that same feeling I felt when I first started supporting Obama from way back. It really inspired my and spoke to truth compared to the RNC's convention of bald face lies. The more I have watched Romney and Lyin Ryan I have become sickened that our country is so close to voting in these sorry excuses for men. I honestly dont know how anyone with half a brain can vote against thier better interests? I know politicians lie but my god to actually come out and admit you are lying and expect to get away with it?! Sorry for my french but FUCK Romney, Ryan, Rove, the COCK bros, Mitch the turtle neck Mcconnel, Boner, cantor, bachman and all the other band of lunatic nitwit rightwing bastards. I hope they all get buried!

We CANNOT let them win! We must all mobolize, unite and crush them all!

So in closing after watching that inspirational DNC convention I have decided I will do my part and vote straight ticket Dem and hope we can win back the house and keep the Presidency and senate!

FORWARD!

(Long time lurker, new poster)

Yet, to think that even 40-45% will still vote for him? Only he could take the Worst VP Choice Ever Award away from Palin.