Livestream info and other details about tonight's Madison WI event

[Divernan]

23. Trying to capture the essence of what makes him such a powerful speaker

God, I have heard so many speeches by political candidates at all levels, for nearly 50 years, but he is different - and better. I think it's that he cares genuinely and passionately about the issues and focuses on sharing and spreading that passion to his listeners. Because he's held the same basic values for decades, he's totally confident and comfortable in talking about them. He's forceful! Says things, like "Let me be blunt!", Or, "I can't say this more clearly!" He projects legitimate and complete belief in his positions - he doesn't equivocate or dodge on any issue. He lays it all out. As John McCain said of him, With Bernie Sanders, what you see is what you get.

He's indifferent to what his audience thinks of him - he doesn't preen, or pose or paste on a fake smile - he doesn't pause for applause, or milk applause. When I taught law students trial advocacy, and they were nervous about arguing to a jury in our mock trials, I told them to stop thinking about themselves, their appearance, how close to stand to the jury box, having eye contact with each juror, etc., but to focus on the fact that they had a story to tell the jury for their client,and this was the only chance to get justice for the client. Be prepared. Know the facts. Know the Law. And then lose yourself in the passion of your argument.

I agreed with all the propositions for change and action which Bernie Sanders made in his speech tonight, but in addition it was really a joy to witness his sincerity and passion.