Democratic primary

Jaime J. Weinman: The U.S. debate was like Saturday Night Live, while the Canadian debate, appropriately enough, was more like SCTV

August was supposed to be a quiet month for Americans: people would enjoy of the final weeks of sun and surf, watch the Beijing Olympics, and take well-deserved break from presidential politics. Even Barack Obama was going to take a vacation! The month would end with the Democratic National Convention/lovefest in Denver, where Obama would be coronated in a show of unity not seen since the events of 9-11. So far, so good, right? Not so!

The first words uttered by the presumptive nominee of the Democratic Party, Barack Obama, was to thank his grandmother in Hawaii “for making him the man he is.” A poignant moment in what became an outstanding and uplifting speech by the senator. His grandmother, nicknamed Toot, has been throughout his life a steadying influence and his acknowledgement of her goes to the heart of the Barack Obama story. He is an historic figure who defeated an historic figure as well. But once the hype dies down, the American electorate will start looking more at character than at making history. This will be the challenge of Barack Obama in the days and weeks ahead-to reintroduce himself to the American electorate beyond the Democratic Party.

Last week’s results in Kentucky and Oregon failed to produce any real change in the race between Obama and Clinton. Obama is still moving closer to the nomination and is closing in on the magic number of 2026. Mrs. Clinton continues her determined effort to seek the recognition of Florida and Michigan delegations, win the overall popular vote as a result, and make her case to the remaining super delegates. Both Clintons have hinted strongly that they are willing to force a vote on the floor of the convention, scheduled for late August in Denver, Colorado. That such a scenario might take place is creating much concern in Democratic circles.