DNC: Obama's send off from Invesco Field at Mile High

Thursday's send off of Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama at Invesco Field at Mile High was a spectacle unlike any other. The Obama faithful were out in full force--more than 70,000 strong. It appears that the four-day long nominating convention out in Denver reached its intended purpose; uniting a party that was divided. The critics have been divided on Obama's performance, however. Venerable Washington Post columnist David Broder published an interesting piece on Obama's speech today. Broder, a long-time Democrat, says he doesn't think Obama's speech reached the caliber of his 2004 appearance in Boston, which made him a national sensation. But, this also begs the question, are the expectations

As many members of the media guessed would be the case, presumed Republican presidential nominee John McCain came out in full force early the next day, naming Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his vice presidential pick. The news of the day overshadowed media coverage of Obama's speech--but the critics and pundits--as is always the case--are, of course, divided over whether or not Palin is a good pick for the McCain camp. Still, the announcement, intended or not, certainly stole Obama's thunder for the day.

Now, with Hurricane Gustav threatening New Orleans, the GOP's response could be very important. Already, events are being cancelled and President George Bush scuttled speaking plans to be in the Big Easy. Will Gustav overshadow the GOP's bash out here in the Twin Cities or will they use it to their advantage in the news cycle? With the McCain camp criticizing Obama as the "biggest celebrity in the world," will a pared down GOP convention resulting from Gustav's assault give Republicans more ammunition to lob against the Democrats?