Presidential Teleprompter Makes Debut In India’s Parliament
Even among those who disagree with his policies, President Obama is universally recognized for his powerful rhetorical skills. Yet both the mainstream media and the blogosphere have noted his virtual total dependence on the teleprompter for speechmaking regardless of audience size. When Obama makes his speech before the parliament in India on Monday, it will also mark the first time that such a device has ever been used in that historic chamber.
DNAIndia.com explains:
Parliament authorities said this will be the first time that such a facility will be arranged in the Central Hall.
Obama’s reliance on the teleprompter is unusual–not only because he is famous for his oratory, but because no other president has used one so consistently and at so many events, large and small.
The Hindustan Times has more:
Indian politicians are known for making impromptu long speeches and perhaps that is why some parliament officials, who did not wish to be named, sounded rather surprised with the idea of a teleprompter for Obama.
“We thought Obama is a trained orator and skilled in the art of mass address with his continuous eye contact,” an official, who did not wish to be identified because of security restrictions, said.
Obama’s speech is expected to last 20 minutes.
