Over the last couple of days, Democrats have heard a lot of speeches that made them proud. But even though a National Convention takes place in front of party loyalists, an awful lot of Americans with no particular party allegiance tune in to the proceedings. While he may not have spoken to the heart of the delegates in Philadelphia last night, Michael Bloomberg gave one of the most important speeches of the week. That’s because he reached beyond those who are already inclined to vote for Hillary Clinton to those who still might have some doubts. To the extent that they heard what he had to say, he made a powerful case.
Now, I’m not here as a member of any party, or to endorse any party platform. I am here for one reason, and one reason only: to explain why I believe it is my imperative that we elect Hillary Clinton as the next president of the United States. And to ask you to join with me in supporting her this November…
There are times when I disagree with Hillary. But whatever our disagreements may be, I’ve come here to say: We must put them aside for the good of our country. And we must united around the candidate who can defeat a dangerous demagogue…
Throughout his career, Trump has left behind a well-documented record of bankruptcies, thousands of lawsuits, angry shareholders, and contractors who feel cheated, and disillusioned customers who feel ripped off. Trump says he wants to run the nation like he’s run his business. God help us….
The bottom line is: Trump is a risky, reckless, and radical choice. And we can’t afford to make that choice.
Now, I know Hillary Clinton is not flawless; no candidate is. But she is the right choice — and the responsible choice — in this election. No matter what you may think about her politics or her record, Hillary Clinton understands that this is not reality television; this is reality. She understands the job of president. It involves finding solutions, not pointing fingers, and offering hope, not stoking fear…
To me, this election is not a choice between a Democrat and a Republican. It’s a choice about who is better to lead our country right now: better for our economy, better for our security, better for our freedom, and better for our future.
There is no doubt in my mind that Hillary Clinton is the right choice this November. So tonight, as an independent, I am asking you to join with me — not out of party loyalty but out of love of country. And together, let’s elect Hillary Clinton as the next president of the greatest country in the world, the United States of America.
It is not normal for a party to provide a platform at a national convention to a politician who is not a member of their party. But this is not a normal election. Perhaps, like me, you’ve heard from friends/family/co-workers that they cannot support Donald Trump – but as a result of 30 years of lies told about Hillary Clinton – they’re not sure they can trust her either. Michael Bloomberg’s speech last night was designed to address those concerns for Independents, business people and Republicans who are repulsed by the narcissistic bully. Providing some space for that message at the convention was a very smart move on the part of the Clinton campaign and Democrats.
