One of the saddest realities of politics is hubris, a trait that often shows itself nonverbally--as opposed to its more uplifting cousin, humility--the commitment to which is all too common in a candidate’s campaign ads.
These two opposites are especially pronounced in this year's governor's race. Republican nominee Rick Snyder's advocacy of his business background and his promise to create jobs rings a bit hollow when he refuses to articulate his plan in a debate with his opponent, Lansing Mayor Virg Bernaro. Why? The smugness created by his double digit lead in the polls and his fear of making a gaffe. Does this sound like a good approach to you?
I say no way. If Snyder wants to lead this state, he has to be prepared for uncomfortable situations. He has to be skilled at addressing hostile audiences. Not to mention the right of the electorate to face the media, and each other, side by side in an honest debate.
So how about it Rick? You only have ONE chance.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Monday, September 6, 2010
It's Still the Economy, Stupid
Right at this moment, Bill Rinney has taken up occupancy on the roof of the Washnenaw County building in Ann Arbor to protest continued high unemployment, both here in Michigan and across the nation.
Extreme measures like this are only prompted by extreme circumstances. Despite the power of the hot button social issues to motivate voters along both fronts in the "culture war," economic distress never loses its ability to trump all other issues. In THIS world, without economic security, nothing else matters.
Small, incremental improvements have occured of late. The Obama administration points out that private sector employment patterns have resulted in a net increase in the numbver of jobs for the past six months--due in part to the positive effects of the stimulus bill. Recently Michigan lost its infamous distinction of having the worst unemployment rate in the country. Nevada's been kind enough to take it off our hands.
The recession began long before Barack Obama took office, but the memory of the American voter is short. Times are still desperate, and the accompanying emotions errodes people's patience.
But the question still demands a clear head--WHO can best create policies and programs to create jobs and restore confidence?
Extreme measures like this are only prompted by extreme circumstances. Despite the power of the hot button social issues to motivate voters along both fronts in the "culture war," economic distress never loses its ability to trump all other issues. In THIS world, without economic security, nothing else matters.
Small, incremental improvements have occured of late. The Obama administration points out that private sector employment patterns have resulted in a net increase in the numbver of jobs for the past six months--due in part to the positive effects of the stimulus bill. Recently Michigan lost its infamous distinction of having the worst unemployment rate in the country. Nevada's been kind enough to take it off our hands.
The recession began long before Barack Obama took office, but the memory of the American voter is short. Times are still desperate, and the accompanying emotions errodes people's patience.
But the question still demands a clear head--WHO can best create policies and programs to create jobs and restore confidence?
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