He’s back

The politician who spoke during the presidential campaign of 2008 with
extraordinary charisma and wisdom returned last night in Tucson, Ariz., after a
long absence. The right probably thought the president had turned soft and could
be ignored as the political force he seemed to be in 2008. Many on the left
thought he’d lost his groove, and that maybe his aura had been exaggerated.

But before 14,000 people in Tucson, and a watching world on television, the old
Obama was back. Like his thoughtful, intelligent speech on race during a low
point in his presidential campaign, when the Rev. Wright tirade jeopardized his
campaign, President Obama spoke about subjects that generate raw feelings — violence,
guns, hate speech, public incivility. And he did so calmly; he reasoned with his
audience; and he articulated a rational perspective about an irrational experience.

He did not offer ephemeral solutions to fundamental problems, as freelance
pundits and lesser politicians did. And last night, the other speakers were
small compared to the president — in their presentation and their appropriate
messages. President Obama had something to say, and he said it with style,
manner and smarts. He is a calming, rational person who uses — when he wants
to, and he surely did last night — the pulpit to raise the level of public
discourse and to skirt shibboleths or formulaic solutions.

I watched him with pride, thrilled to see a national leader leading his people
through a rough, raw period with wisdom, charm and his unique captivating
presentation.

He’s back!