I just wanted to take a moment to post that my husband, mother-in-law and I attended Lou's speech and book signing in Little Rock last night. His show was taped immediately beforehand, but noone was allowed to attend. Lou was outstanding, and one of my more shallow observations has to do with his physical appearance. He looks quite a bit younger in person, and is a very attractive, elegant and classy man. He also has tremendous charisma.

He covered topics ranging from the Iraq war to free trade and illegal immigration. The presentation was originally booked for the Clinton School of Public Service next to the Clinton Library, but the demand for tickets necessitated moving the event to a nearby convention center. The place was packed, and there was a very lively Q&A after his speech. He clearly loves to talk, and the host actually had to cut him off so they could move on to the book signing. The crowd was very diverse and very receptive to him, and there was much clapping and cheering, along with a few standing ovations. During the Q&A he was asked by several audience members if he plans to enter the Presidential race. He said he was flattered that people were expressing support and interest, but that he has no intention of running for office, that he's doing what he loves, and providing a voice for Americans that he thinks is needed. He also said that he fully expects an independent candidate to step forward " within the next ninety days". He didn't elaborate further, but I, and others I talked with later, had the distinct impression that he knows more than he's telling, as he said something about believing this with some certainty before his voice trailed off. I told a woman in line at the book signing that I hope he isn't referring to Bloomberg, because that would be a huge disappointment.

Near the end of his presentation he said he is begging Americans to switch to independent status, that this is absolutely critical in teaching our political parties a lesson, and wresting control from a totally corrupt system. He did acknowledge that this will be a difficult fight. He was very forceful at times, but also showed a delightful sense of humor.

My husband purchased both books and had him sign them. My mother-in-law took a photo of the two of them, which I will have framed for him.

On a side note, my beloved cat died at my side suddenly yesterday while I was working, and I told my husband that nothing else could've gotten me out of the house under those circumstances except a Lou appearance. It was well worth attending, and if you get a chance to see him, do go. He's a riveting speaker.