Support First Things by turning your adblocker off or by making a  donation. Thanks!

They say different things, is what they do.  The knowing say Ryan failed us with facts and policy and no showmanship.  They say Biden was all showmanship, but that’s what counts.  The hoi polloi say Ryan was marvelous, controlled and respectful, as he battled two opponents, not just one: the commentator and the VP playing the Joker with a little more charm.

I am glad there are many more voters among the hoi polloi.  Yes, I know people do not really vote for the VP candidate, but for the front-runner.  But the choice of VP counts as a matter of the presidential candidate’s judgment.  People like the patient young guy who says things like, if we do nothing but what we have been doing, we are going to be stuck.  Logos, ethos, pathos: Ryan won two out of three and that ain’t bad.

Dear Reader,

While I have you, can I ask you something? I’ll be quick.

Twenty-five thousand people subscribe to First Things. Why can’t that be fifty thousand? Three million people read First Things online like you are right now. Why can’t that be four million?

Let’s stop saying “can’t.” Because it can. And your year-end gift of just $50, $100, or even $250 or more will make it possible.

How much would you give to introduce just one new person to First Things? What about ten people, or even a hundred? That’s the power of your charitable support.

Make your year-end gift now using this secure link or the button below.
GIVE NOW

Comments are visible to subscribers only. Log in or subscribe to join the conversation.

Tags

Loading...

Filter First Thoughts Posts

Related Articles