Reply #24: Out of those two choices, I'd say perception. [View All]

[subterranean]

The Republicants didn't lift a finger to solve the mess they created, but they were able to shape people's perceptions, with help from their friends in the media. That was enough to give them a big win yesterday. I know it's a lot more complicated in reality, but maybe the Democrats can learn something from this.

They need the kind of simple, easy-to-digest message that works so well for the Republicans. For the rest of his term, Obama should focus on doing what's in the best interests of the country and ALL its people, not just the wealthiest. And, perhaps more important, he and the Democrats need to make sure people know that. When the Republicans send him legislation that doesn't meet that standard, I expect him to veto it. Realistically, that's about all he'll be able to accomplish in the next two years.

Most Americans don't pay much attention to policy details. They just want to believe that their representatives have their best interests in mind. If Obama can overcome the right-wing attacks and convince people that he does, he'll win re-election.