We live in this odd fishbowl world. The political conventions have become somewhat like the Olympics where analysts will rate a performance on technical merit and style points.

Most of the speeches I have heard have been high on the passion and the throwing of red meat to the audience. There has been lots of charisma, lots of rhetoric and snappy phrases but devoid of content and substance.

I am proud of Mark Warner. He gave a thoughtful, honest to him and his beliefs keynote speech. It talked about real things. He talked about broadband connections for everyone; internet time; and the need to act on things NOW. He mentioned how China is winning gold medals in the economy not just swimming and gymnastics. He talked about the importance of math and science. He talked about management and execution not just about leadership. He talked about real world economics; revenue generation; and the power of education.

He looked to the future and stopped the name calling aimed at the past.

Mark was perhaps the best Governor in Virginia’s history save for Thomas Jefferson. He had our state humming. It was ranked best-managed state in the union for three years running.

Mark Warner is a centrist not a flame thrower. He is a thinker not a talker. He is a man of integrity and a man who understands the importance of technology in our lives. He is of our generation.

I am proud of Mark and I am proud that he gave a speech that was authentic and true to him. He was a great Governor. He will be a great Senator and hopefully – one day – his aspirations will be even higher.