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[Jim Allman <jim AT ibang.com>]

On Monday, March 8, 2004, at 01:48  AM, Don Rua wrote:

> My case: Bush including the images and themes of tragedy in his ads make perfect sense, and are entirely appropriate as quick reminders of the situation he led our country through.


Agreed. I think *any* president would run on this experience.

And a sensible opponent would acknowledge Bush's leadership, then respond by reviewing the record (the unclassified stuff, anyway;) and asking pointy questions. *Lots* of pointy questions.

Instead, I think the Democratic response to this has been mostly tactical--trying to make the guy run on his public speaking skills and math ability. But I also think the Bush campaign might try to create a stampede of fear, a crisis mentality that closes our hearts and numbs our brains. Just pull the lever and make the bad stuff go away!

We have several months to get a grip on the fear and hold a democratic discussion, if people would just stay engaged.

Fingers crossed,

=jimA=