Gary R'Nel: Romney And His Etch-A-Sketch
4/8/12 - by Gary R'nel -
According to a recent Rasmussen Presidential Tracking Poll 23% of the nation's voters strongly approve of the way that Barack Obama is performing his role as president. Forty percent (40%) strongly disapprove, giving Obama a Presidential Approval index rating of -17. This normally would not bode well for the incumbent. But the Republican field for 2012 is doing everything in its power to reassure Democrats that Mr. Obama will be reelected.
The inevitable nominee, Mitt Romney is so on message that there is no message beyond his standard well rehearsed campaign pronouncements (anti women, anti immigration, repeal Obamacare, less taxes, smaller government). Mitts' wife Ann is quoted as saying that she needs to "Unzip Mitt" revealing the lovable, warm and affable candidate. This could be dangerous advice further contributing to the public's perception of a candidate already suffering from an identity crisis.
Now that Mitt clearly will be the nominee it would strengthen his campaign to shake that Etch a Sketch and work from a blueprint that will not change with the breeze. He needs to strengthen his appeal to moderates, independents, Latinos and women. It is too late for damage control among women. Obama has a healthy double digit lead among females under 50. His hard core pronouncements on immigration will make it difficult to persuade Hispanics to jump on board. Romney's only hope for salvation is among moderates and independents. Stop the proselytizing on social issues and concentrate on jobs, health care reform and government debt.
A recent USA/Today Gallup poll shows President Obama opening up a big lead in 12 key swing states. This is not time for the flip flop. The playing to a particular crowd needs to cease and desist now that he has secured the nomination. Mr. Romney, your local theatre production is about to go on a national tour. The dress rehearsal is over. Define your message and practice your lines. Then deliver them.
