Bring out the generals, now

[timezoned]

I think it's time for the Kerry campaign to focus on only one thing. Here's why.

Reason one:

Recent polls show over and over that Kerry wins already on economy, jobs, health care, even the war in Iraq. Everything except "terrorism". In other words the message from the voters is "we're scared sh*&*less". And no wonder, of course with what everyone's been fed.


Reason two:

This is a clip from Jay Nordlinger, conservative managing editor of the National Review, in a much-quoted piece in that magazine after the first debate:


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"I thought Kerry did very, very well; and I thought Bush did poorly —much worse than he is capable of doing. If I were just a normal, fairly conservative, war-supporting guy: I would vote for Kerry. On the basis of that debate."

"Kerry was smart to mention all those military bigwigs who support him ...this support for Kerry will be news to many Americans."

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This means that there is simply no sense in focusing on anything except reassuring voters on that issue. And this means bringing out Wesley Clark, bringing out the military support that Kerry mentioned in that first debate, having them stand on stage with him, appearing in every ad- everything. Focus on that.

WE of course care about other topics, but we're convinced already. Most people are convinced already, one way or the other. The ones who aren't are largely scared. The normal rules don't apply, otherwise this economy and all the rest would have sunk GWB to 30% in the polls already. People are scared, reassure them. Myself, I'm reassured by having a sane person in charge. Others need something more traditional.

Let's give it to them.

Comments?

[wishlist]

1. I agree - people need reassurance that Kerry can be war commander

Kerry absolutely needs to highlight the support he has from many high ranking past military leaders, not just mentioning their names but getting Wes Clark to marshall them together and start appearing with him more at campaign events and on TV shows.

[texasmom]

2. Completely agree.

One of the most powerful commercials was of the general who voted for Bush in 2000 but Kerry gets his vote this year.

Get them out there, front and center.