Delegates in Demand

As the "battle" between Obama and McCain intensifies, and the democratic national convention plunges into the pages of history books, much attention has been focused upon the delegates. Interestingly enough, all three newspapers that my college provides free of charge to its students have featured lengthy, if not excessive, biographies and profiles of the delegates in concern.

The obsession with delegates has me concerned.

Yes, delegates certainly are influential and dedicated people, who will, in fact, help determine the next President of these United States. But why do we need to know personal information about each delegate? I understand that the political opinions and views of such people are valuable to understand... but is it necessary that I also know the age, religion, and preferred soft drink of each delegate as well?

It is important to consider the importance of knowing all about a delegate, versus knowing what is relevant about this delegate to the current election, and how their opinions relate to current political issues. For example, it is good to learn which delegates are passionate about education, which delegates support the war in Iraq, or even how delegates have voted on past issues. Knowing the name of delegate Bob's purebred pet poodle, perhaps, is not as crucial to retain.