Oh I agree - here’s what I posted on the live thread:
I’m not as negative on it as you are. I have to remind myself he was talking to ALL Americans tonight and not just those who spend time on politics and news. Reminded me of when I was a kid and hated the news but still stopped when Nixon/Carter/Reagan got on a special broadcast. I didn’t know exactly what everything was going on, but I knew it was important and my parents would pay attention.
This wasn’t for us - who spend time these issues - this was for all those many many others who just don’t spend time on it. His speech was more toned down, simple and to the point. Couple key points I heard were 1) the heart tugs, 2) blacks/hispanics hurt most by wage/job issues, and 3) rich people build walls to protect those they love.
The dam (meant to spell Dem, but either way works) response was a loser - they tried to demagogue something that wasn’t there to demagogue.
And he kept the message short so they would be more likely to remember those points. Neither Senator engaged in a meaningfull rebuttal. They just whined about the Government being Shut down like most people really care that the poor IRS is not able to more effectively assess their taxes!