The NPR Politics Podcast Obama's Speechwriter On The Power Of Presidential Rhetoric
Sep 15, 2022
Cody Keenan, former chief speechwriter for President Barack Obama and author of "Grace: President Obama and Ten Days in the Battle for America," shares insights on the art of presidential rhetoric. He discusses the emotional weight of crafting a eulogy after the Charleston shooting, contrasting Obama’s compassion with Trump’s confrontational style. The conversation also touches on the importance of effective communication in addressing political polarization and energizing younger voters, highlighting hope in the American narrative.
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Obama Sings "Amazing Grace"
- Obama sang "Amazing Grace" after his eulogy for the Charleston shooting victims.
- This surprised many, as only a few people knew he might sing.
The Pause
- Cody Keenan asked Obama about the long pause before he sang.
- Obama explained he needed to start low to avoid his voice cracking.
Eulogy Debate
- There was debate within the White House about Obama giving the eulogy.
- He'd given many after mass shootings and felt they led to inaction.
