I rode the el this morning sitting across from two typical suburban dads. Between 45 and 55, wearing open-necked shirts. One wore jeans and a baseball cap, the other was khaki clad.
First they talked about Kansas City (the Royals, I suspect). Then baseball cap dad said he'd read Hillary Clinton's new book over the weekend. "It wasn't as good as her other one, It Takes a Village," he reported. "I thought I'd get a book for Father's Day, but I didn't," khaki replied. Then they began talking about baseball cap dad's "old school" lawnmower and how he keeps the blades so sharp.
It occurred to me that this was the first time I have ever heard men spontaneously talk about Hillary. What I found heartening was the context. She was an author. Not a female author. Not a woman writer. Her gender was not remotely the issue
I have always been lukewarm toward Mrs. Clinton. I appreciate her, but I don't like her. I understand her intellectually, but I don't trust her. I'll vote for her vs. just about any Republican, but I'd like to see someone run against her.
And if she wins in 2016, I'd like it to be because she's the most powerful candidate, not because she's a woman.
Agree 100% with your views on HRC. There's a pretty serious groundswell on the Democratic side to not do the dynasty thing and instead choose someone who is more progressive and less corporate.
ReplyDeleteI support that groundswell, just as I'd support Clinton if she is the nominee because God help us if Mitt Romney wins the election. We may as well up and move somewhere else pronto.
I saw a fascinating interview with her from BBC. It helped me warm up to her a bit. Because I'm like you--not so swayed by her personality.
ReplyDeleteIt's so interesting to be privy to what "the other half" (of the population) thinks when they're within their own circle. Obviously not representative, but still interesting.
ReplyDeleteI haven't decided about Hillary. She's been portrayed negatively in the media, because we like our women strong, but not Too strong. The next couple of years will tell.
Well said!
ReplyDeleteWell said!
ReplyDeleteThis IS heartening. I hope it speaks a wider truth. I have a great deal of respect for HRC. I just don't know if I would want her as a bestie; then again, that's not what being President is all about, though try telling PR people that, eh? :-)
ReplyDeleteNow if Chelsea were to run....