Hello, I am a 26 year old engineer residing in the Queen City, Burlington Vermont. My politics are of a fiscal conservative, social libertarian and pro-regulation (especially environmental law). I am an undecided voter in this Democratic primary simply because I see great qualities in all the candidates. I do have a soft spot for Dr. Howard Dean, M.D., since he the internet took him under its wing and brought him to the forefront. Still, I am an avowed Anybody But Bush (ABB), and will cheer on whoever is standing toe-to-toe with GWB on the debating podium this fall. Anyway, here's what I wanted to say regarding the Iowa Caucuses and the results thereof...
As Dr. Dean's concession speech is repeated over and over across the airwaves this morning, my neck is sore from cringing. I hope that a good night's sleep for Trippi, Dean and the rest of the staffers give them the clarity to reshape their image and message.
The anger and fire I heard from that speech was not about empowerment, but something more aggressive. This isn't a good way to get a hold of midddle America, who likes their politicians to smile and kiss babies.
I know that The New Republic isn't this site's favorite political weekly, but I do recommend reading John Cohn's piece this morning here to see how the 'outsiders' of Dean's campaign see him and his message.
Get back to basics, that's what I reccommend. Dean's health care policies are politcal gold, and he should be pressing his case at every opportunity, not egging on his supporters. His people are already on the ground, and probably won't get any larger in number. With the troops assembled, now lead the charge with economic proposals, environmental initiatives and health care for all.