Don’t think for one minute the accusations of plagiarism against Melania Trump will cause major damage to the show the Republicans put on last night It was the first night of their convention in Cleveland. It was a triumph of the first order. For one of the first times jacksjargon can remember, the Republicans absolutely destroyed Hillary Clinton with truths about what she has done. Mostly as Secretary of State. It was patriotic, highly emotional at times and informative for a TV audience that certainly included more than mere Republicans.
The highlight of the night, and their were several, was the speech from Melania Trump. The writers of her speech, that she helped write, inserted three lines (58 words) that were virtually identical to the speech given by Mrs. Obama during the Democrat convention 2008. Oh one would think, according to the media, all the gold had been stolen from Fort Knox. All three morning network shows showed over and over the sentence by sentence comparison. It is true somebody writing that speech for her should be fired. Unless, of course, it was Campaign manager Paul Manafort. But, Mrs. Trump, courageous as they come, gave a speech about her husband that was a triumph according to Fox News Brit Hume. Chris Wallace echoed the same with the remark “and she was drop dead gorgeous.” Married 18 years to Donald, she speaks five languages, Among her remarks, people know of what she speaks….”Donald gets things done” “Donald never gives up.” “He’ll never let you down.” He’s an amazing leader.” All this from a woman foreign born, never a speech giver, this took enormous courage. Some people are afraid to speak up at a PTA meeting. And, Trump’s entrance to introduce his wife is one for the ages. Darkened entrance, seen only his shadow in a blue lit cloud like sight with the music “We are the champions” blaring. Nothing wrong with a little showbiz fun.
Of note, Hillary Clinton accused, and was correct, Barack Obama plagiarized for one of his speeches….VP Joe Biden was forced to drop out of one of his Presidential runs for President due to plagiarism. Of this you will never here.
But, going against the main stream media’s focus, the first nights speeches were special. The Lone Survivor, Mark Luttrell, the mother of a son lost at Benghazi, Patti Smith, Rudy Giuliana, Sen. Tom Cotton ( a definite prospect for a future Presidency) General Flynn were spot on. To target at Hillary in a way the media and no Republican Presidential candidate has ever done before. “Red Meat” sure, but they spoke the truth the TV audience needed to hear. I urge to go to youtube.com to see a speech or two yourself. Especially Patty Smith and Rudy Giuliani. Among things Rudy referred to…”what happened to “there is no White America…there is no Black America.” And to Islamic terrorists….”we’re coming to get you.” And the sheriff of Milwaukee, David A. Clarke, comes out to speak, says an opening line, and than belts out…”Blue lives matter.” to a roar of approval.
Some other notes….Fox News concentrated too much on panel discussions and missed important speeches. CNN’s coverage was better. Bill O’Reilly blundered by using a phone conversation with Trump and missing Patti Smith’s brief and terribly emotional talk. Gov. John Kasich justifiably criticized for not attending the convention in his home State ignoring the oath he took. Fox New Founder and CEO, Roger Ailes appears to be a goner for sexual harassment not just at Gretchen Carlson, but others coming forth now. Megyn Kelly reportedly confirming his advances.
For those of you discouraged by the horrendous negative coverage of the plagiarism in Mrs. Trump’s speech, don’t be. It was a very good night for Republicans. The news cycle turns over quickly. With Chris Christie Tuesday night and Trump’s children speaking, by Thursday and Trumps speech, Monday will be history. Trump’s, reportedly one hour speech Thursday night, is for “All the marbles. Tuesday may provide more delegates fighting to put Ted Cruz’ name in nomination. It’s fodder for media attention. But meaningless.
As for convention momentum slowed……Momentum? I think of the old grumpy manager of the Baltimore Orioles, Earl Weaver. When bugged by reporters about his team losing momentum, he growled…”Momentum is tomorrow’s starting pitcher. Catch my drift?
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