NASCAR Nation: One journalist's journey of discovery

National Review, Nov 10, 2003 by John Derbyshire

I am going to leave it to professional analysts to decide whether NASCAR Dads will be decisive in the 2004 elections, and just register the following impression that I brought away from Talladega with me: Whoever comes into stock-car racing, whether as driver, or owner, or fan, or political pollster, or just inquisitive outsider, will find a sport in which physical courage is admired, family bonds are treasured, the nation's flag is honored, and the proper point of balance between courteous restraint and necessary aggression is constantly debated.

I greatly enjoyed my day at the races. If NASCAR fans really do form a voting bloc, I would much rather they were on my side than on the other. I am glad to have made the acquaintance of a thrilling, noisy, colorful, commercial, very American sport.