Biden Is Winning Me Over

   Sen. Joe Biden, who I was fairly disappointed had been tapped as Barack Obama's running mate, is winning me over.

   My initial beef with the pick was that I had a hard time reconciling Obama's campaign for change with a 6-term senator. I still think that is a bit of a concern.

   However, Biden's longevity in the Senate, and what he has accomplished while there taken together with his compelling life story, are turning into positives for the Democrats' campaign.

   He knows and claims to be longtime friends with John McCain. This allows him to honestly compliment McCain on his service to the country and his personal honor and then turn around and explain, in no uncertain terms, why he should not be elected president.

   Biden is well known for having lots to say (too much, some would say) and clearly does not mince words. This came across clearly in his acceptance speech tonight where he said "hell" (something I would not expect in a sanitized convention setting) casually and brutally condemned the Bush administration and McCain's record of voting with the administration 95% (or thereabouts).

   I am big on people that tell it like it is even if it means they're a bit abrasive. In fact, I've already praised Biden for this trait.

   I am eager to see what else he says once McCain names his VP candidate and the Obama campaign lets Biden fully loose!