Stealing His Thunder

Charles Krauthammer's op-ed column in today's Washington Post provides an interesting and plausible explanation for why many Obama supporters detest Sarah Palin; she stole Obama's celebrity status. To summarize, Krauthammer argues that Obama used only his "magical powers" - his speeches, chants, and uplifting rhetoric - to awe America. Nonetheless, the dwindling appeal of Obama's celebrity led to his giving a "deliberately pedestrian" acceptance speech in Denver. Because the campaign was "entirely driven by personality," Obama is now left with an insubstantial platform and a message that no longer energizes his supporters. 

To put it bluntly, Krauthammer's assertion is both extreme and absurd. For proof, talk to a young Obama supporter who admits disenchantment with the candidate's rhetoric, but continues phonebanking and canvassing. Talk to a former Clinton supporter who never liked Obama's personality, but knows that Roe v. Wade is teetering on a 5-4 Supreme Court decision. Or talk to anyone that still believes in Obama's unifying message of change. 

The crowded stadium speeches and artistic "hope" posters may no longer characterize the Obama campaign, but is that a problem? As strong-willed and opinionated government students, have we not all been praying for the candidates' views on issues to overshadow their cults of personality? This is an opportune moment for Obama to exploit the platform differences between himself and McCain. No longer shrouded in his celebrity status, Obama can now bring more substance and less flair to his words.

Perhaps that is a lesson Sarah Palin should learn. As for now, however, she is "pulling an Obama."