The NYTimes is out with an
article explaining how Bush plans to run against Dean. His campaign for re-election will draw on Reagan's "Morning in America" theme to emphasize that this country is going in the right direction and that the economy is growing and terrorism is being dealt with effectively. The president also plan to introduce a new goal for America that will appeal to everyone and transcend partisan lines: perhaps increasing the life expectancy age or starting a new space program (the 2nd is more likely, I assume.) By running on the theme that America is doing great, the president hopes to paint Dean as whiny pessimist who is exagerating the problems America faces in order to gain partisan political advantage. The theme that Democrats have no vision to offer and are resentful of Mr. Bush's succesful agenda that has made American a better country will be especially emphasized.