Say what you like about the man, the leader and the politics but boy the President of the United States can hold a crowd!
Some commentators may have likened it more to a pep rally than a memorial service but there is no doubting that this event, called to honour Rep. Gabby Giffords and other victims of the shooting last Saturday in Tucson, Arizona, moved hearts and, as many will hope, it may have moved minds.
Speaking before a packed crowd of over 14,000 at the University of Arizona in Tucson, Obama passionately declared: “I believe we can be better…Together We Thrive: Tucson and America.”
He went on, placing heavy emphasis on the victims, hoping.. “their deaths help usher in more civility in our public discourse, let’s remember that it is not because a simple lack of civility caused this tragedy, but rather because only a more civil and honest public discourse can help us face up to our challenges as a nation, in a way that would make them proud,”.
He stated that Saturday’s tragedy should not be politicized , noting: “What we can’t do is use this tragedy as one more occasion to turn on one another”. However, some cynics and opponents will doubtless claim that Obama is indeed using this occasion to his and his party’s advantage as he seeks to position himself once again as the inspirational leader and the voice of reason in turbulent times.
Opinion is certain to be divided, Obama as saviour or opportunist but one thing is certain, words have immense power but they need great orators to make them sing. Crucially, they then need great leaders to give them life and real, tangible impact. Can Obama be that man?
You can watch the memorial service here on the official Whitehouse website.
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