Martin O'Malley's Political Language
By TJ Gosse

The speech mentioned below can be found on Martin O’Malley’s website at http://martinomalley.com/2014/06/11/iowa-democratic-party-2014-state-convention/


On June 21, 2014, Martin O’Malley gave a speech at the Iowa Democratic Party State Convention in Des Moines. There were several values that he drew on in this speech. In each section, O’Malley tried to inspire the Democratic Party to believe, to act, and to continue to grow the middle class, and remember what made America one of the great world powers. He also has the “never stop fighting” mentality. This is the same mindset he had while in office in Maryland. One common theme that he continues to elude to is the American dream. At one point in the speech, he begins to talk about the Democratic Party as a prizefighter. Right now, he describes them as getting beat up in the ring. They are losing the fight. But he reminds them to remember who they are. Remember the founding fathers who stood for courage, freedom, and the people. We need to fight back and remember the things that once made America great.

Like I mentioned earlier, Martin O’Malley puts a strong emphasis on strengthening the middle class. Throughout the speech he continues to several examples to inspire the audience and show all of upsides that go along with uniting as one and continue to take action. This also coincides with O’Malley as a person. During his time as governor of Maryland, he took initiative in making a lot of changes like gun control that looked bleak when he entered office. In this particular speech, he also directly gives some options to begin to take steps in the right direction by raising the minimum wage. I think this will be successful because he is consistent. Lately his speeches have consisted of similar stories, so everyone is getting the same message.

By reading and listening to his speeches, it is obvious that O’Malley is an authentic guy. He talks about real issues that mean something to him. He also sees that America needs to get back on track. O’Malley is quoted in this speech saying:

“There is a big difference today between the America that we carry in our hearts and the America that we are seeing in our headlines. The America in our hearts is the land where those who work hard, who play by the rules, who get up early in the morning can make a better future for themselves and their children.”

Another issue that he stressed the lack of education. O’Malley has always put a lot of stress on schools, our children, and our grandchildren. In almost every speech he mentions his wife, Katie, and their two boys and two girls. This demonstrates the value that he is a family man who has faced the same problems that others are facing. This makes him a lot more relatable and credible than other politicians running in this presidential race. He continues to preach that the American value of hard work will bring success. During his conclusion he states that:

“Progress is a choice. We do not move forward by chance. Hope drives belief. Belief drives action. And action achieves results”