On Romney and authenticity

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Having been promised that Romney would speak at 10 p.m. last Thursday, I tuned in at the prescribed time only to find Mr. Eastwood delivering the most noted performance of the convention. I saw part of Rubio's speech, didn't make it to Romney's, but no worries. The full text is readily available.


 Here's something you will not read in that text:

In 1998, Ann was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Those dark days were full of trepidation and uncertainty, but we were fortunate enough to have Ann's boundless strength as well as considerable means. Now look how beautifully she's emerged. (APPLAUSE)

Every tragedy is dotted with points of light. After Ann's ordeal, I knew no one should have to face the difficulties of a debilitating disease compounded by the fear of not having access to healthcare. And when I became Governor of Massachusettes, I vowed to myself to find a way to make public healthcare available via private means. (APPLAUSE)

In 2006, that vow came to fruition. (APPLAUSE)

I really believe Romney's heart is in that imaginary script. I really believe that his wife's battle with MS was part of what drove him to enact the Massachusettes Health Care Reform. That would have been a personal and powerful campaign touchstone. It shimmers with truth. Unfortunately for Romney, the GOP has told him in no uncertain terms that he is not allowed to have any part of it.

Authenticity does not come in a jar. You cannot fake it or buy it. The GOP has essentially stolen its candidate's authenticity.

Ann is another terrible tragedy. The truth would have illuminated her in ways all the sentimental stories cannot. Now every American--insured and uninsured--who has struggled with health care costs sees a rich healthy woman who never had to worry about the bills.

Whether or not Romney's forced loss of authenticity will cost him the election is anybody's guess, but his vast swings on pro-choice/pro-life and gun control/gun rights compounded with his refusal to disclose his taxes do not help his case.

Authenticity, Governor Romney, is a terrible thing to waste.

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