Speeches make me nervous. There are the writers, editors, elocution coaches, teleprompter operators and 'advisors' who are all party to the speech. I'm never sure when it's the real thing or one great stage show. Senator Obama is an excellent orator, but so are several other senators, members of the House, and 20% of the Scree Actors Guild. The best orator may not be the most skillful leader.

It takes more than a well-staged speech to get my vote, regardless of which of the three members of the Select 100 is holding the microphone at the moment. A lot more substance of what one plans to do - in detail - with the why's and how's and when would be nice. Otherwise, it's a beauty contest akin to Miss America.