Democrats’ Problems Overblown
Don’t expect John McCain to do the Democratic presidential candidates any favors between now and November. The game is already on for the big prize and there’s no reason to expect any let up until it’s all decided. So the Democrats would do well to just strap themselves in and get ready for another bumpy ride.
It’s not tiddlywinks. Presidential campaigns are vitriolic, partisan affairs which last for months and leave polite contenders in the dust. Every candidate will get roughed up sooner or later. The Democratic slugfest could help Democrats in the long run.
Who can take a punch?
Some people considered George H.W. Bush’s 1988 Willie Horton advertisement racist and unfair. But there’s no law against nasty political ads. In fact, such ads are protected by the First Amendment. Dukakis didn’t handle the attack well and lost the election.
In 2004 John Kerry failed to adequately respond to the Swift Boat ads questioning his patriotism and service in Viet Nam. Voters expect to see candidates defend themselves, forcefully if necessary.
Who can run a marathon?
This election has been in the news for over a year, and it’s still seven months away. Candidates that don’t wear well have no chance. The successful job applicant must maintain a steady course despite the inevitable hazards on the road to the White House.
Who can play the margins?
It wouldn’t matter much if Obama lost a few thousand Clinton voters in California just as it wouldn’t matter if McCain lost a few thousand Huckabee voters in Texas. Turning out the vote in swing states like Missouri, Ohio and Florida makes the difference in close elections. We’re in for another bruising battle.
Democrats, Obama, Clinton, McCain
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