Posted by
Stefano on Monday, September 01, 2008 3:25:04 PM
I attended the McCain rally in O'Fallon, Missouri yesterday. O'Fallon is in St. Charles county, west of St. Louis, and is a Republican stronghold. The rally was at the minor league baseball park, home of the "Rascals" ball club. The gates opened at 2PM and the line was about a half mile long when I arrived with my wife, son and daughter-in-law. It took a about 45 minutes in near 90 degree heat to get to the main entry way and security screening. Once inside, we made our way to the outfield which had many strategically placed free water stations and a line of concession stands that are most likely the stadium sales outlets for baseball games. A good country band provided music for the crowd at intervals. There was a cheerleader type announcer revving up the attendees. Actual cheerleaders and pom pom kids from local high schools also provided some entertiainment. At about 4 PM a succession of political types spoke including but not limited to former senator Jim Talent, GOP gubernatorial candidate Kenny Hulshoff, and current Missouri governor Matt Blunt. A former Hillary supporter proclaimed her support for McCain-Palin. A fellow Hanoi Hilton alumnus of McCain's voiced his admiration for his leadership abilities, and a recent army enlistee gave his support to the GOP ticket. By this time the infield stands and the infield and outfield were packed with more than 15,000 fans. The newspaper reported today that the security screeners counted 23,000 but the baseball stadium people estimated the crowd at 14.000.
The "Straight Talk Express" bus arrived at about 5PM with much cheering and adulation. The candidates and their entourage made their way to the stage and the speeches started. Huckabee spoke first, then Romney, then McCain and finally Palin. It was nice to see the true unity displayed with Huckabee and Romney being there praising the Republican ticket. All four were received with chanting and applause. The energy of the crowd was strong for both candidates with the biggest cheers being received by Palin. The speeches were well delivered, were basic stump speeches and had some lines I had heard before, but it was great hearing them delivered in person.
Following the program, the candidates stuck around for 45 minutes to an hour to shake hands, sign posters and books, and generally give the voters an up close look. I made my way to what I thought would be the path of the candidates, and I was lucky enough to shake hands with Huckabee, McCain, Cindy McCain, Romney, and Senator Kit Bond in that order. Why all of these people stood in line to shake my hand, I have yet to figure out.
I am waiting for some photos from my son to add to this post and shall do so when received.