Date night with Michael Smerconish

Last night I attended "An Evening with Michael Smerconish" at the Paramount Theatre. I had never heard the radio personality speak before, but my boyfriend is an avid fan. He'd purchased two VIP tickets to the event for us to enjoy appetizers and conversation with Michael before the actual presentation. I was very open to going to the event with little expectation. I was vaguely aware of Michael's general political stance and was under the impression that I didn't agree with him on a lot of issue. Nonetheless, I went along with a good attitude and wanted to hear what he had to say. To be entirely honest, I am so thrilled I went. I was blown away by Michael's charisma, humor, and last but certainly not least, his political pitch. I want to bottom line his message and main points because the real reason I'm writing this blog is only partially in regards to his message. He reiterated several times that he believes there is a strong correlation between the polarization of our news and media and the resulting polarization of our country. He champions compromise, unity, and finding similarities rather than focusing on the drama, conflict, and alienation promoted by other entertainers like Rush Limbaugh, Glenn Beck, and Matt Drudge. He is an independent, not a republican nor a democrat. He believes in discussing issues, not labeling and pigeon-holing people based on a platform or party.

The reason I'm writing about this is because Michael answered the final question from an audience member with final comments that stuck with me. I'm going to attempt to paraphrase those remarks since I can't quote him exactly (I didn't record the speech). He pointed out that it is really difficult to get Independents and Moderates, who make up 40% of our voting population, to concern themselves with saving the country from political gridlock. Extremists and political nutcases are the ones passionate enough to show up at the primaries and to fundraise or donate to a polarized party. The vast majority of the American people don't fall in to the extreme right or extreme left and therefore won't step in to do much until IT HURTS ENOUGH. My questions to my fellow Americans: "When is enough enough? At what point are you and your family hurting enough in order to step up to the plate and do your part?" I encourage you to follow debates, research candidates, VOTE, and stay informed. No one person is to blame for the issues facing our country today. Be an adult, take responsibility, and get educated.

One final note. As I left, I shook Michael's hand and told him I'd never listened to his show before but I definitely will now. (In fact, I'm listening to a recording as I write this.) He replied, "Awesome, you'll be good for my demographics!" I'd strongly encourage you other 20-something females out there to give his show a listen. You are the future of voting... with your vote and the way in which you raise children to view politics... and thus, the future of our government. Take your role seriously.