Democrats Must Run on Obamacare in November

[DonViejo]

Robert Shrum

In light of their loss in Florida’s special election, Democrats need to adopt a new political approach and emphasize the popular provisions of the Affordable Care Act.

In the wake of Democrat Alex Sink's narrow loss in the special congressional election in Florida, POLITICO, which swiftly and often clearly crystallizes the conventional wisdom, described a "public split" among Democrats in "how to talk about Obamacare." A few think candidates should stake out more progressive ground, presumably chastising the party and the president for not passing something like single-payer. Others are cravenly ready to run against the Affordable Care Act. And still others will seek shelter in the strategy that was tried and failed for Sink-- the law shouldn't be repealed, but fixed.
All three reactions are tempting, simple, easy –- too much or not enough, and too often just plain wrong.

To begin with, Sink didn't lose because of Obamacare. She had a spending advantage, but a demographic disadvantage. Barack Obama barely carried the district in 2012 during a presidential year with high turnout. In the March special, the electorate was depressed, and its composition was decidedly more Republican. Moreover, Sink was not a stellar candidate, even against an opponent who was, of all things, a lobbyist and could have run on the slogan: "Remove the Middleman."

Nor was her core message likely to move Democrats and motivate turnout. Instead it was a pale carbon copy of Obama's 2008 pledge to reach across the aisle, an echo of a moment now long past in politics and in time. "Bringing Republicans and Democrats together" was her hallmark phrase.” The phrase may scored well in a poll-- who will say they don't favor it? But bringing the two sides together is by now a clichéd appeal that doesn't turn out voters.

As Karl Rove warned Republicans afterwards, it's dangerous to over – interpret a special election as a harbinger of midterm elections. He's right, and I don't generally write that. Even more, it's profoundly dangerous for Democrats to draw the conclusion that their only safe choices are to flee left or right on Obamacare – or just stay stuck in the middle.

more
http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2014/03/17/democrats-shouldn-t-run-from-obamacare-in-november.html

[flpoljunkie]

1. Kick!

[Beartracks]

2. Another kick! n/t

[flamingdem]

3. I am very grateful for ACA

doubt I'm the only one! Got a medical bill today and stressed out over it only to find out it was very affordable, yessss!

[Cha]

4. Brawaaaa.. "Bringing Republicans and Democrats together" She may as well have promised..

Unicorns! The teabaggers and the Dems aren't ever going to come together.. nor should they.. lookin' at you jane hamsher.

Sounds like Alex Sink bought in the gopropaganda machine. not a good thing.

thanks DV