Kerry/Edwards need to offer a vision/product.

[gulliver]

According to the front page CBS article currently posted, "The majority of Americans feel that neither party has faithfully articulated a clear plan for the nation's future."

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2004/07/24/opinion/polls/main631632.shtml

Kerry needs to make America an offer, and for that he needs a product. He needs something like the "New Deal" or Wes Clark's "New American Patriotism" only newer and better.

For example, Kerry could offer America "A Renewed America". That would give people something to focus on. Kerry says things like that all the time, but he needs to package his offer for people. That vision (product, offer) would be like a third member of the ticket, IMO.

[Ruby Romaine]

1. I'll settle for a Bush free White House, Thank you!

n/t

[Sparkly]

2. I think they're going with "Stronger at Home, Respected in the World"

but you're right, something directly focused on communities -- domestic issues -- would be nice.

The only other theme I keep seeing seems to be a competition to be the most "Optimistic!" And of course, jobs.

I think they have plenty of good ideas and a great platform, but it's hard to get across that idea of a concise package.

[gulliver]

3. Too specific. Kind of klunky.

You are right, IMO. I've seen that "Stronger at Home, Respected in the World" stuff too, and they do seem to be going with it. I don't think it is very good as a main package name, though. It would make a good subtitle.

The offer has to be, IMO, like Edwards' "Two Americas" vision. It has to be "visionary," and it has to be short. Catchy wouldn't hurt. It needs to be something to make people want to hear specifics, but doesn't need to be specific itself.

I, for one, don't like hearing a politician's "plan." People buy dream homes; they don't by dream home plans.