Prometheus 6   

By Joan Vennochi, 9/4/2003

LEFT, RIGHT. Left, right. Left, right. Straddle. Reach to the left on health care. Tilt with the polls to the right on issues like reducing welfare and the federal deficit. But above all, be all things to all people whenever possible.

That political calculation worked for Bill Clinton, most notably in 1992 against George Bush, the elder. It worked for Clinton a second time, in 1996, although it really didn't take much in the way of strategy to defeat Bob Dole. Standing next to the aging Republican was sufficient.

Following in Clinton's political footsteps is tempting for Democrats. But it is not the way to beat George W. Bush in 2004

…If Bush stood for something in 2000 -- compassionate conservatism? -- he stands for even more -- or is it less? -- at this point in his presidency. And that is his strength and weakness in 2004. On the weakness side, the people who voted for cardboard in 2000 rather than for Bush, are outraged by the absolute certainty of what Bush now represents. They seek a candidate who can put a face and voice to their outrage.

…The Bill Clinton era is over and someone should explain that to Terry McAuliffe, who heads the Democratic National Committee. No candidate is going to get elected president in 2004 talking about video chips. Three million jobs disappeared during the Bush administration. The United States waged war with Iraq but does not know how to wage peace in that country. Civil rights, affirmative action, and choice are under attack.

There is plenty to be angry about, but anger alone will not win the White House. For the Democrats, passion with purpose is necessary, in the primary season and beyond. Straddling is an exercise in political futility.