RNC/DNC

[Cognoscente]

The caliber of these conventions has been night and day.

The RNC was marked by conspicuous absences from party leaders, a series of bafflingly unqualified D-list speakers, and permeating anger and fear. It was like a Sith convention.

The DNC feels like an embarrassment of riches. Notable speakers giving stirring, uplifting, inspiring talks (any one of which would be the lauded talk if it had been given in the RNC). Chaos and unity, joy, inspiration, emotion, appreciation. Every night, I've wondered how they would top the last, and I haven't been disappointed.

This isn't just a partisan observation. I genuinely wish the Republicans had a good candidate, and that they could articulate a cohesive and worthy platform for the country. But they don't, and they've demonstrated that they can't.

Obama's speech last night, in particular. A bookend to Boston 2004. The Vindication of Hope. What a speech. What a president. How lucky we are to be alive right now.