johnpwise's Blog

My handsome boss Jim asked me recently if I'd be interested in going to Denver and Minneapolis later this summer to cover the political conventions.  

I didn't really need to think about it. I've never been a politics writer, but that's not an opportunity you turn down.

I come from more of a sports background, but this is a great chance to cover the grandest race of them all, the Kentucky Derby of politics, perhaps the Final Four of a most important election year.

Covering politics should be more fun than covering sports. Sure, I enjoy watching sporting events involving my favorite teams more than I like watching politicians speak from behind podiums or address town-hall gatherings. But there's one major difference -- politics is real life. Sports are merely games whose results should have no real impact on our lives.

But a presidential election has real consequences. So I'm going to have to really know my stuff.

My get-smart-quick process started a month ago when I began reading Barack Obama's "The Audacity Of Hope." When I finish it, I plan to read John McCain's "Faith Of My Fathers." I hope to have both of them read before the conventions.

I'm also visiting blogs and watching more news programs at home. But I'll take any tips from you if you have sources that you recommend.

So today is kind of like syllabus day. No real lesson or rant scheduled; I just wanted to introduce myself and let you know that I'll always welcome your comments.

I'm a left-leaning employee of FOX -- how'd that happen? -- so I expect plenty of, shall we say, interesting conversation. I don't ask that you agree with me. I've always preferred a peaceful exchange, so my only requirement is that when you do express any contrarian views, do so respectfully, and treat this space like your mother's living room; let's keep it clean.