I Just Returned

from seeing John Edwards in person at Hug High School. I arrived there a little after 11:30, and I was concerned because few people were there. However, by the time he gave his remarks at a little bit after one (he arrived before schedule), the crowd was several hundred, probably along the lines of Hillary Clinton's town hall on Friday night.

I was right up in front, so I took some good, close pictures of him, and I videotaped his remarks. He talked about Iraq and how we needed to be out of there as soon as possible, about NCLB needing a massive overhaul so that it's not punitive to schools or teachers and to preserve public education, about health care, global warming, corruption in government, and many other issues.

Edwards said Elizabeth was doing great, and she was on the campaign trail in New Hampshire.

I was lucky because I was right in front. When he finished, I was one of the first to get his autograph--the fourth one of his I have--and he signed it on my window sign. I told him I have supported him since 2003 and that I was going to caucus for him. He said, "Bless your heart." He shook my hand twice, and it's a firm shake. It almost hurt my hand! Edwards is just so great, not a bit fake. Few out there have his ability in retail politics. Bill Clinton might be the only one I have met in person who meets or exceeds that ability.

I will post pictures shortly.