McCain: You Gotta Admire His Toughness

Senator John McCain, Republican presidential candidate is one tough guy. I am not talking about his years as a POW in Vietnam, nor his diligence to run again for the GOP nomination after losing to George Bush four years ago or his resiliency to stay the course for this year's pick when he looked like a sure loser a few months ago. I am talking about facing the oldest, strongest and baddest civil rights organization in the nation, The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

Wednesday afternoon in Cincinnati, Senator McCain accepted the Association's challenge/invitation from Julian Bond to face the organization's loyalist at their national convention. The audience--a pro Obama crowd, heavily democrat, and haters of Bush and everything Republican was ready to pounce on the seemingly defenseless Senator McCain. But, in a move that silenced the most loyal Obama supporter McCain had the mass audience listening intensely to every word that uttered from his mouth. When not classroom listening they applauded, laughed, and occasionally stood up voicing their approval. But, what exactly did this old crafty political wizard say?

First, he disarmed the crowd by apologizing in not accepting the Association's invitation last year by broadly explaining the problems he had with his campaign at that time. Secondly, he praised Senator Obama as an "impressive" man who has "inspired a great many Americans, some of whom had wrongly believed that a political campaign could hold no purpose or meaning for them." Thirdly, he promised, if elected, to expand opportunities for African-Americans. Fourthly, spoke passionately about education reforms. And lastly, stated that Obama makes all Americans proud and that we rejoice in his success; but, jokingly added, that he'll "prefer his success not continue as long as he [Obama] hopes."

At this point, he laid out his differences from Senator Obama's plans for the nation. McCain said that there are fundamental disagreements on issues of the economy and the growth of the country. But again, in a brilliant move he stated to the partisan group, even if "I don't get your vote," he needs their "goodwill and counsel."

Many in audience left with a new found impression and respect for Senator McCain. Some stated, "he's open minded and people-oriented." Others remarked, that they will begin to pay more attention to the GOP candidate.

It is a sure bet that the NAACP will not endorse Senator McCain and that the majority of their members will vote for Senator Obama in the general election. But, you must take your hat off to John McCain. He walked into the lion's den and left with his head still attached to his neck. Say what you want--but, McCain is one tough dude.