WP: Candidates Get Down To Specifics

[kskiska]

As Clock Ticks, Each Hones Favored Message

By David S. Broder and Dan Balz
Sunday, September 5, 2004; Page A01

Democratic presidential challenger John F. Kerry begins the fall campaign on the defensive and faces the urgent necessity to make the race about the economy and other domestic concerns, after President Bush used his convention to say this election is all about keeping the country safe.

Bush rode out of New York after a four-day convention tightly focused on terrorism -- and what Republicans say is the striking contrast between the credentials of the two candidates for commander in chief. Democratic strategists now say it is essential for Kerry to seize back the initiative that was lost during August.

(snip)

Kerry strategist Tad Devine said the campaign is moving to shift the debate from terrorism to health care, jobs and other domestic issues under the theme that "a stronger America begins at home."

"They want to move the electorate toward Bush's perceived strength," he said. "We're trying to meet the voters where they are."

A senior Kerry adviser agreed. "They made a determination that they're going to run strictly on terrorism and commander in chief," he said of the Bush campaign. "We need the voters to make a different decision."

more…
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A62432-2004Sep4.html

[sandraj]

1. "Kerry strategist Tad Devine

said the campaign is moving to shift the debate from terrorism to health care, jobs and other domestic issues under the theme that "a stronger America begins at home."

"They want to move the electorate toward Bush's perceived strength," he said. "We're trying to meet the voters where they are."

I like how the Kerry camp always frame things in terms of how they affect us on an individual level. This is where Kerry and Edwards excel - connecting with people.

[DeepModem Mom]

2. This did not work in 2002, but maybe it's best now -- I'm not a pro n/t