The passion and vigor with which Strickland delivered his speech was something that I have never seen from him. His simple, easy-to-understand comparison was biting and effective. He delivered what became one of the most memorable lines of the night as he assailed Romney as an outsourcer, tax shelterer and out-of-touch candidate who does not understand middle class values. The line, paraphrased, said that if Romney were Santa Claus, he would fire the reindeer and outsource the elves.
What I most liked about Strickland’s speech was his relation to what is going on in Ohio. For that, I may be biased, but I see it in my backyard each and every day. Governor Strickland discussed how President Obama bet on the automobile industry and the worker. He highlighted the job gains around the state of Ohio. Whether it is job gains in Toledo or Lordstown, Strickland illustrated exactly what the automotive bailout meant for Ohio.
His speech completely resonated with me as I see job gains at Republic Steel in Lorain — a plant that is at least half and closer to two-thirds tied to the automotive industry. I see Camaco, a manufacturer of automobile seat backing for Ford and Chevrolet models that added a third shift and 75 jobs in Lorain. The automobile industry is not just about the finished product. It is about the supply side and the parts and all those contributing to their production.
Strickland hit a home run and delivered like I have never seen before. It is no wonder he is a national campaign co-chair, and it is no wonder that people in the convention hall are wondering whether Strickland’s political career is not quite finished.
In case you didn't see the speech, which hasn't gotten enough press, it is here:
I could listen to Strickland all day.
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