One of the most frustrating facets of this campaign is Obama's inability to catch fire with the middle class. Despite the voters' opposition to the war, the economy, the lack of a national health insurance program and Republicans in general, he is trailing in national polls. We are told eventually Americans will buy what Barrack is selling. But will they? Given the success of the Senator's marketing program so far, can we really be willing to trust that the past does not foretell the future. So what is the problem and how can it be fixed?
It was recently mentioned that one of the major players was at a meeting with Senator Obama and asked him for three sentences that reflected his economic policy. It was stated that the Senator was still talking 5 minutes later. As I have mentioned before, the majority of middle class voters want a slogan, not a legal brief. As I listen to Senator Obama explain his answers or policies, I am aware of his very detailed but extensive explanations. He uses 100 words when 10 are adequate for most voters. Can anyone possibly compare Barrack's thoughtful understanding of issues with Shoot from the hip John. But even I can remember McCain's slogans and one liners. I'd rather lose an election than lose a war. I'll go straight to the gates of hell to get bin Laden.
Now how many of those undecided voters are able to name even a single strong message that uniquely defines Obama? It seems his messages get diluted by the words that it takes to describe them. Remember the famous story about the man pursuing his love. He went on and on and on. In the end, her reply was, "You had me at hello." Somehow, many of those same voters who were inclined to Senator Obama have disengaged and have been attracted to the simplicity of McCain's approach. KISS. Keep it simple stupid.
So I ask that readers come up with a short, dramatic and highly memorable slogan that could be used during the final 50 days. Something like "Enough is enough." "John McCain, you broke it, but I'm gonna fix it." "Bush to McCain. Connect the dots."
I'm confidant that collectively the people that feel as strongly as I do about a missing link in the campaign message will be able to offer some insight to what will help. Let's be honest. We've all wanted to hear him say something spot on that will reach the voters. Here's your chance to step up. What could it hurt?