For the U.S. Presidential Candidates: Six Strategies for an Enhanced Campaign

Although no one has sought campaign advice from me, I am boldly offering six strategies to each of the Presidential candidates for how to conduct a more positive and enhanced campaign. A quote attributable to Helen Keller says: “I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; And because I cannot do everything I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.”

Yes indeed, I can do something – even three “somethings” when it comes to the topic of the Presidential campaign. First, I can put together my personal wish list relative to the current U.S. Presidential campaign season, thereby inserting my own two cents worth into the campaign equation. Secondly, I can write and publish this article in order to express my opinions. And last but not least, at the end of the campaign process I can and will vote, not having missed voting in an election of any consequence throughout my entire adult life.

My motivation for writing this article

Quite simply put, words matter with me. When a presidential candidate in any way demeans another candidate’s character through manner of speech or the medium of print without backing things up with fact-checked points, I literally cringe. Actually, I do more than cringe – I lose a measure of respect for any individual who chooses to tear someone else down without fact-checking in order to accomplish their own political gain.

That does not mean that candidates do not own their past. They do, and there must be a thorough vetting of the candidates during the campaign process which includes debates and town hall meetings. We need to know how the candidates view issues and how they have handled policies. I just ask that facts be carefully checked, and that the candidates, after saying why they believe someone else has not handled something in the way that they would have done, then go on to inform us about their own way of doing things that would more positively impact the country.

It is difficult to raise differences in a positive way, but I think it can be done if the discussion focuses mainly on issues and solutions.

I firmly believe that as a nation we should demand a high level of integrity, honor and respect for others from our leaders and those aspiring to lead our nation, and also hold an individual’s feet to the fire when we receive anything less than that. Is that just wishful thinking? Perhaps it is, but it is nonetheless sincere thinking on my part.

Issues and solutions

The economy, jobs and foreign policy continue to be the prominent issues leading up to the selection of a president in November, 2012.

Therefore, in my humble opinion each Presidential candidate would run an enhanced campaign if they would consider incorporating some if not all of my following six strategies into their campaigns between now and Election Day 2012:

1) Identify the most serious issues facing our nation and concentrate your campaign on a positive, thoughtful discussion of those serious issues. I believe that anyone currently employing negative tactics should stop drumming incessantly on the character and policy flaws of the other candidates and choose to run a positive campaign on issues. I firmly believe that successful nations require positive leadership.

2) Spell out the existing key policies now in existence that you would strive to change in order to improve the job market, stimulate the economy, and keep America thriving and safe. Define those policies so that we know exactly what you are talking about.

3) Present a clear and concise presidential platform based on what measures you would take to provide concrete solutions to the very real broad-based problems that exist today. I want to know how you would be transparent about your problem-solving efforts. I have many unanswered questions such as: How would each of you specifically address the entitlement program issues, budgetary affairs, illegal immigration and the medical care system, etc. How would you rein in spending and lower the deficit? Would you be for a balanced budget amendment? How do you feel about term limits? Also, how would you work with your opposing party in order to accomplish your objectives?

4) Present your points succinctly and in understandable terms. Include enough details to give all of us confidence in how you would lead the country, and dispense with throwing in a lot of hot air meant to beef up your favorite talking points. Cool it with the talking points! Just speak to “we the people” in a genuine manner directly from the heart. And please limit the use of teleprompters – I think that each of you should be knowledgeable enough to speak off the cuff by the time you become a Presidential candidate and not need to read from a script.

5) We live in a global world – as a citizen I need to have confidence in your understanding of foreign policy. Let me know upfront the specific ways that a vote for you will lead to an improved standing for America around the world and serve to keep our country safe in the months and years ahead. I would like to know such things as: What will you do in those foreign countries where we are involved in peace-keeping efforts? How will you deal with rogue leaders? How will you handle matters dealing with nuclear weapons? Will you negotiate with terrorists? What is your stance on the Israeli – Palestinian conflict?

6) Be genuine. Posturing is easily recognizable and borders on acting in a childish manner. I personally want to gain a good understanding of just who each candidate really is and will continue to be as he or she leads our country beginning in 2013. I cannot afford to be fooled by anyone’s rhetoric whether that rhetoric comes from the left or the right. Speak words that are true, and then be true to your words.

The next election is shaping up to be one of the most critical ever in the course of American history. I am hopeful that any and all Presidential candidates who are employing negative campaign strategies will take action to keep things on a positive note moving forward. I would like to see each candidate work diligently at conducting their individual campaign in an informative, respectful and genuine manner. Tell citizens what we need to know about you as a person, what you have accomplished in the past pertinent to the job of being President, and what you will accomplish in the future if you are elected to that high office. And always, keep it all real.

This Presidential campaign should have two main components – issues and solutions. I’m personally listening carefully to what each of you is saying. I may only be one, but I am one! And I faithfully vote.

Source: Personal opinion


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