Meanwhile, in New Hampshire

Wyoming resident and NKU prof Cady Short-Thompson continues her blogging from the Next Big One.

Some highlights:

The event began with an Iraq War Veteran leading the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by Senator McCain’s authentic, meaningful recognition of the veterans in the room. Many political candidates recognize the vets at such events but when McCain does so, there is a real admiration and reciprocal respect that surfaces in the room.

When NH voters talk about McCain, they often note his military service and heroic record. After his speech, audience members praised McCain’s thorough responses to audience questions, his tremendous wit, and his speaking skills. I did, overhear several audience members quietly inquire about the age of the candidate. Like anyone, McCain does look older than in 2000.

McCain impressed and amused the crowd, receiving four standing ovations, multiple applause points, and much laughter. The affable candidate joked and smirked in ways that delighted the New Hampshire voters.

Rhetorically speaking, Senator McCain utilizes a number of strategies to appeal to voters on an emotional level. Humorous, passionate, peer tone (saying “my friends” 18 times and often saying we instead of I), full of personality and patriotic appeals, McCain led his audience to feel. Emotional appeals can be very powerful and persuasive in campaigns.

Read the full dispatch here