July 8, 2007
This week their was a notice on Senator Biden’s website that he would be at a house party in a neighboring town. The Senator is one of the candidates I really wanted to see, mainly because I’ve been aware of him pretty much as long as I’ve been aware of politics and politicians. I’ve been a bit hesitant to go to candidate house parties, as I feel a bit awkward showing up someone’s home unknown and unannounced. Also, these events tend to be geared to party faithful, and I often feel I should be wearing a big purple ‘I’ on my chest to indicate that I’m an Independent so as to not mislead anyone. My final hesitation is simply that I’m bit shy and don’t always know what to say. Regardless of my misgivings this was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
My initial concern of going to someone’s home was quickly alleviated as I met the gentleman who owned the home and who was also running for state Senate. He was very kind and welcoming and very nicely introduced me to several people. I filled out a few papers that requested contact information for the local race, the presidential race, or regarding particular issues. I was still a bit nervous evidenced by the fact that I couldn’t remember my home phone number when filling out the paperwork.
Word came that the Senator would arrive soon, and the local candidate gave a talk then introduced Senator Biden as he arrived. Just before the Senator arrived someone stated “He’s here,” and he walked through the door. I have to admit I inhaled suddenly when I saw him in the door. I’ve never been one to follow bands or celebrities, and don’t typically see people as better or worse because they have fame, money, or power. However, the Senator took my breath away a little bit. I think partly because I’ve known of him for so long and partly because I’m a big dork fascinated by politics and history.
The Senator gave a talk then took some questions. What struck me the most is the Senator Biden is clearly a pro. I noticed a couple times the Senator standing in different parts of the room, and realized he did this so he could look each person in the eye. He talked mainly about Iraq, and touched upon a number of the elements of his Iraq plan. He brought up the importance of this election in determining the direction of the country and the world, and the need for a president with experience and knowledge of the issues.
After his talk he shook people’s hands. He started with a lady
next to me and asked her name and to tell him about herself. My nerves
suddenly came back as I started thinking about how I might respond to
that question, as I couldn’t even remember my phone number let
alone anything else about myself. I’ve hesitated to meet candidates
at past events because I’m concerned that in twenty years someone
will asked what I said when I met the future president and I’ll
have to admit that I made a fool of myself. However, I did meet Senator
Biden and fortunately I was able to remember my name.