An arrow-straight and arrow-sharp critique of Barack Obama's political speaking style has been given by Willie Brown, Democrat, former Mayor of San Francisco and very longtime California State Speaker of the House. I would say that Willie Brown proved himself to be the most powerful black politician in America, that is until Barack Obama arrived on the scene, attracting crowds, raising money, and getting closer to the White House all the time.
Willie Brown, now after his long public service career, runs a political consulting business among other interests, and writes a column, "Willie's World" in the San Francisco Chronicle.
Through his column he gives presidential HOPE-full Obama some sage (and free) advice. The critique of Obama is short but VERY to the point...
http://www.sfgate.com/...
"Barack Obama's European trip was fine, but if Obama really wants to score points, he should take up John McCain's challenge for a series of town hall meetings.
Right now, Obama still appears overscripted. Too perfect.
I know it's a risk. When Obama gets off the teleprompter, he is as dull as Gavin Newsom.
But right now, Obama is way too focused on being precise in his presentation. Everything has to appear well thought out. It makes him unexciting and uninteresting.
Remember, the public never really trusts a politician until you make a mistake.
They don't want "perfect" - they want human.
Besides, Obama can't be any duller than McCain."
I only recently became aware of Obama's skill at reading the teleprompter. It was before his giant crowd in Germany speech. Perhaps it was the outdoor light conditions or the difficulty in gauging pauses timed to such a huge crowd's reactions, but it was obvious he was reading, something that didn't seem obvious in other speeches, not even the 2004 Dem Convention speech.
I agree with Willie Brown. And add that the sooner Obama lets the public get to know his extemporaneous speaking style also, the better. It shouldn't be a surprise at the inevitable presidential debate.