Today’s Hot Topic: Where Were Sasha And Malia Last Night?

AP Photo/Pool, Rick Wilking

Last night’s presidential debate was eye-opening for so many reasons. Most Democratic supporters didn’t expect such a strong showing from Romney. Heck, I don’t think most Republicans expected their recently gaffe-prone nominee to hit the stage, guns blazing, ready to pepper the president with facts and figures about his four years in office. But the moment that surprised me most was at the very end of the debate, when the political families joined the candidates on stage.

Romney was greeted by his wife, Ann, a few of his sons and their significant others, and some grandchildren–totaling seven supporters. We all know that the former governor has a big family and he made a big show of it. Meanwhile, at the other end of the stage, Obama was congratulated by Michelle. Just Michelle. Seven versus one? Not a balanced ratio, not even close.

While the big family farewell at the end of the night isn’t nearly as important as what was discussed during the debate, I can’t help but wonder why the Obama girls weren’t there to take the stage with their parents. Why didn’t Barack and Michelle have their daughters tag along for the educational experience? Sure, a Wednesday night at the University of Denver would mean a sluggish and difficult Thursday at school back on the East Coast, but wouldn’t it be worth it? After all, Dad hadn’t debated in years and this was one of his most important nights during the election. I think that Sasha and Malia could have learned from seeing their pop in action–and I think that Obama could have benefited from having the support of his three best girls.

Whitney C. Harris is Deputy Editor of New York Family. She can be reached at [email protected]

 

Relevant Directory Listings

See More

BAMkids

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">BAMkids presents adventurous art and ideas for young audiences, igniting the imaginations of creative kids ages 3—11 with a fun and engaging lineup of workshops, movie matinees, and live performances from around the world.</span></p>

Advantage QuickStart Tennis

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">A proven teaching method, customized by age and ability for ages 3 and up. Special kid-sized racquets and playing area, plus slower-bouncing balls, make it fun from day one!</span></p>

Super Soccer Stars

<p>Soccer Stars is New York’s most popular youth educational soccer program! With 24 years of experience under our cleats, we have positively impacted over one million kids in our local community by putting the FUN in FUNdamentals in our weekly classes and camps.</p> <p>At Soccer Stars, we use the soccer ball as a vehicle to help children not only improve their soccer skills, but develop self-confidence and physical literacy, improve gross motor skills, build teamwork, and hone socialization skills. Our highly trained coaches and early childhood experts lead an age-specific curriculum with a low kid-to-coach ratio so every child gets individual attention and can grow at their own pace.</p> <p>Kids ages 1-12+ can join our seasonal programs, including Parent & Me, FUNdamentals, Development Training, and Travel Soccer. Join us at one of over 80 locations in neighborhoods across across Westchester County, Connecticut and New York, available 7 days-a-week:</p> <p><strong>Connecticut:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Cos Cob</li> <li>Greenwich</li> <li>Port Chester</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>Westchester:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Briarcliff</li> <li>Eastchester</li> <li>Mt. Kisco</li> <li>New Rochelle</li> <li>Ridgefield</li> <li>Scarsdale</li> <li>White Plains</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>New York City:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Bronx</li> <li>Inwood</li> <li>Upper West Side</li> <li>Upper East Side</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>Can’t find a class or location that fits your schedule? Soccer Stars also offers private classes for small groups or individual training. Let our coaches come to you with a completely customizable program, anytime, anywhere. Birthday parties are also available! </p>