On Saturday the 24^th of April, Tyler, Texas played host to one of the leading voices in the contemporary American media. Glenn Beck is now widely considered one of the leaders of the new conservative surge in America. He is a radio and television host who champions traditional values, and opposes the march of progressive socialism in American government. While talk radio has become a game changer in American politics, Glenn’s show is less likely to appeal to policy wonks and political junkies. He generally has a larger more philosophical approach to the nation’s problems. The event was sponsored by Glen’s local radio affiliate KTBB AM 600.

Overall, the Oil Palace in Tyler is not a great venue. The chairs were too tightly packed together and a local musician played what sounded like the same song three times over but I can’t be sure, due to the fact that the sound system was in and out initially. The audio problems were eventually fixed before the proceedings were seriously underway however. The first thirty minutes or so consisted of patriotic music, and short introductions. State Rep. Leo Berman spoke first, stoking the crowd’s patriotic fires when he promised to work toward state legislation similar to that of Arizona, requiring any presidential candidate to demonstrate that he (or she), is constitutionally eligible to hold the office. Congressman, Louis Gomert, talked about his opposition to the stimulus and health care bills, and Governor Rick Perry spoke passionately about state’s rights and politically resisting the overreaching power of the Federal government. Mr. Beck’s relaxed almost subdued presentation contrasted sharply with the more electric stump speech given by the governor.

Despite the presence of the area glitterati, what happened at Tyler’s Oil Palace last night was not a campaign rally, or a meeting of activists. It was more like a lecture, of the kind that ought to be taking place on our college campuses. Mr. Beck, his tone passionate but thoughtful, took the audience on a walk through America’s providential history. He emphasized the difference between American individualism or individual liberty, and European group think, or socialization. As a semi-regular listener to Glenn’s show even I was surprised by his tone and content. Mr. Beck is not the fire-brand propagandist that his opponents claim. He is a thoughtful well read man, more concerned with principles than political issues.

The evening’s tone was nearly religious in the best sense of the word. Speaker after speaker emphasized the country’s need to restore its religious foundation. Glenn stated repeatedly that America was in need of revival. Even with the religious tenor, there was no hint of sectarian differences, or any trace of discrimination of any kind, just a group of Texans and Americans with the desire to remember who they were and to try to become that again.

Events like Mr. Beck’s visit, (or Sean Hannity’s last summer for that matter), are good for East Texas. They bring dollars and attention to our region. But beyond that they are good for traditional, conservative Americans who want to contribute to the nation’s restoration. Having guests like these men helps to connect Tylerites to national events. I for one am very grateful to KTBB for sponsoring these kinds of local programs. For more information on AM 600, go to www.ktbb.com. Readers can also search this site for the title “National Politics and Local Coverage.” To find out more about Glen Beck visit his site first at www.glennbeck.com.