This article first appeared at betting.betfair.com on 19th August 2020
Convention season is underway, with the Democrats going first in Milwaukee, followed by the Republicans in Charlotte from next Monday.
Naturally, various stars of the Democrat party have dominated early proceedings, with one particularly standing out. Team Biden is able to call upon one of the most popular and revered individuals in America in Michelle Obama. The former First Lady’s gold necklace spelling VOTE went instantly viral.
All highly predictable. If the Obamas weren’t central to the campaign, that would be the story. More significant are the contributions from former Republicans.
Republicans for Biden making headlines
Monday saw former presidential candidate John Kasich address the convention. Yesterday it was military general and former Secretary of State Colin Powell, while Cindy McCain delivered a film detailing Biden’s deep friendship with her late husband, John.
Some grassroots Democrats were uneasy at having representatives from the enemy party speak at their convention. They are wrong. This is brilliant politics, demonstrating the vast anti-Trump coalition behind Biden.
McCain family bound to be prominent
All three are notable. Powell also endorsed Obama so that was predictable, yet still good optics. The McCain family are yet to officially endorse but I expect they will and are timing the announcement for maximum effect. Astonishingly, Trump continued to slate the 2008 Republican nominee and war hero after his death.
Daughter Meghan has a close relationship with Biden. They have talked publicly about grieving together – Biden is well-known to have suffered terrible personal tragedy. Meghan is a pundit on the popular daily show “The View” and has reach.
Note too her father was the long-term Senator in the pivotal ‘toss-up’ state of Arizona. Win here, as the polls consistently forecast, and Biden will become president.
Why the Kasich endorsement matters
I’m particularly struck by Kasich’s support, as it is coming from a frontline politician. A former Governor of a bellwether state – Ohio. He previously served in the Bush administration. His political homelessness speaks volumes about the extremism of Trump’s GOP.
Kasich is anything but a Trumpite. He called out Trump and his agenda repeatedly during a bitter primary season, impressively staying above the fray when that chaotic contest descended into personal abuse.
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