In some ways it was like other political events I've attended- with the fanfare of campaign signs, flags, and (of course) donation tables. Rudy had an inside VIP discussion and gave speech that was broadcast outside to the large crowd. Discussion points included several items taken from his 12 commitments platform, including smaller government, adoption/abortion, health care, and being on the offense against terrorism. A well-targeted comment that he made was regarding “capitalists” and his belief that the best things that happen in America come from individuals unfettered by government. He suggested that one evaluation of a politician's legacy should be whether it left a smaller government than it inherited, like Ronald Reagans. He also asked for the prayers of the group, who jokingly asked if he meant right now. He then gave a short speech outside, in which he talked about families, especially children, of which there were many.
It was a uniquely relevant event in several distinct ways. The crowd was more family-oriented and lively than I've ever seen at a political event. Maybe it was because of the kids running around on the party slides, trampoline, swings, etc, but there was notable buzz and one-on-one discussion of issues, political and economic. I believe these individual discussions are tremendously relevant, memorable, and powerful. Props to Rick Keorber for bringing together such a group. And I've got to give the Mayor props for the clarity of his platform:
- fighting terrorism
- illegal immigration
- fiscal discipline
- cut taxes
- government accountability
- energy
- health care
- adoption/abortion
- constructionist judges
- emergency preparation
- school choice
- global economy
