Yesterday, U.S. president Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama attended a “Together We Thrive: Tucson and America” memorial service in Tucson, AZ to remember the 6 people killed, and 14 wounded during a Jan. 8 shooting spree by a crazed gunman on Saturday.
During his speech, Obama paused at the podium fifty three times to soak up the audience’s enthusiastic applause and cheering.
“Gabby opened her eyes for the first time,” Obama announced to thunderous applause. Obama was referring to Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, 40, who was shot in the head during an assassination attempt.
“What we can’t do is use this tragedy as one more occasion to turn on one another,” said Obama.
But, apparently, the occasion can be used as an unofficial pep rally for Obama’s upcoming re-election bid.
“Is it just me, or is this event starting to look more and more like a political rally?,” wrote one political blogger who noted that concession stands were open and Obama t-shirts were on sale.
“Do the people there know they are supposed to be gathered in solemn remembrance of the dead – not cheering like yahoos at a football game?,” he asked.
I have to agree. I mean, come on, cheering and souvenir t-shirt sales at a memorial service? Why am I the only black person who sees the hypocrisy in that?
Photos: Reuters, AP
