Reply #3: A valuable lesson can be learned from this [View All]

[JoeMemphis]

Demcorats are going to have to highlight issues popular with the public, create a message, and stay on message in order to win. I think there is a parallel between this election and the 2002 midterms in that the Democrats didn't stick to a central message that showed the public that they deserved to be in the Governor's seat. The Dems' message was muddled between conspiracy theories about the recall as a right-wing conspiracy (55% of the CA electorate is not right-wing), Davis's accomplishments (?), and support Davis but if not then support Bustamante as the alternative.

Meanwhile, Arnie stayed on message that he was the best choice to lead California. I don't agree that he was, but the electorate rules in this country and they spoke rather clearly last night.

Democrats need to articulate a positive vision and stay on message if they ever plan to win in 2004. Bashing Bush or worrying about a "right-wing conspiracy" won't win an election. Ideas and vision have to take center stage.

If Dems talk about Bush's poor record on jobs *and* make the solution a central campaign theme, they will win. Bush is vulnerable, but he won't be defeated if Dems offer only criticisms and a muddled message to the electorate.