I just saw this article on Drudge. Seems like the Fred08 campaign is taking a step in the right direction - trying to convince Republicans who fear a loss in 2008 that not only can Thompson defeat Hillary (or other Democratic candidates) in 2008, but his "true conservative values" and "common-sense conservative beliefs" are what the Republican party and the county need. Fred describes those beliefs as the "sanctity of life, lower taxes, less regulation, market economy, free competition, respect for private property rights, free and fair trade." The next step should be to go more in depth about how those beliefs will translate into public policy. He should explain how he will apply the concept of federalism once in office. Now that the campaign has started to define his values, they need to develop a plan. Ideals and beliefs win the base. Vision and a plan win those on the fence. If you're going to be captain of the ship, you had better know which way to sail.
- Kevin Hoggatt
Friday, September 7, 2007
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
4 comments:
I read that article and look at Fred Thompson a little differently. I agree that he has already defined a number of "true conservative values" that sure look nice on paper and (I say this shuddering a bit to myself) I agree with some of them in abstrac theory...but abstract theory is not going to get you the Republican Nomination. Because he has waited so long to officially enter the game, there is going to be a lot of pressure for him to deliver a lot more than simply a clearer more concrete vision. He's going to have to prove he can get votes! I also find it dangerous that there are so many comparisons to him and Ronald Reagan. Just recently, his campaign strategists have said that they welcome those comparisons and are hoping that will get him more votes. I find that a dangerous tactic to take because now you have to live up to not only expectations of the Republican forerunner with all the answers and ability to stop the Democract, but you also have to prove you've got the so-called personality that people remember with Reagan (who, by the way, was only held up as such a phenomenal President years after his administration left the office because of the consistent amounts of positive press coverage he got because he spoke so well in front of the camera.) Those are some giant shoes for Freddie to fill, so I say best of luck. -Briana
I agree completely that the campaign should avoid Reagan comparisons...see my first Thompson post. - Kevin
don't tell me what to do, kevin.
also, i love you. -briana
Post a Comment