Memo to Kerry: stop using the phrase 'average Americans'

[rumguy]

I remember you using it on Russert's program way back in 2002. On that day you used it several times. I cringed everytime you said it. No one likes to think of themselves as 'average' - and in fact, what is an 'average American'? There really isn't such a thing.

I haven't heard you use the phrase for a long time. Today on CBS Evening News I heard it again...

Stop it!

[Insider]

1. he should re-claim "the american people"

strong message when bush admin uses it, codeword for SUV-driving, NASCAR dads.

we need to take it back to mean ALL the american people, including libs, dems, etc

we ARE the american people.

[JI7]

2. he means the non rich/powerful

[Radical Activist]

3. Wasn't that a line on an episode of West Wing?

the response was that most people consider themselves to be average and don't think its a bad thing.
I'd rather he use the phrase "fellow workers" but I don't think that would go over too well.

[eileen from OH]

4. And thanks to Nixon

"my fellow Americans" is out.

eileen from OH

[boxster]

5. Well, if you're going to criticize it, at least provide an alternative!

If you're going to complain about "average Americans" (which, frankly, I don't think is a problem), the least you could do is suggest an alternative.

[gulliver]

6. True. It's like Lake Wobegon ...

"where all the women are strong, the men are good looking, and all the children are above average." Everyone thinks of themselves as above average. I like "regular people" or "mainstream Americans."