Reply #21: The numbers of perception: [View All]

[Donna Zen]

Most voters make up their minds near the end of campaigns based on perceptions rather than policy. Thus the "soft on defense" meme goes on and on while Democrats vote for huge military budgets and IWRs.

The image of a generation taking the reigns united by the healing power of two opposing Vietnam viewpoints melding is a message that would sell; it would also be the truth. Clark was part of the officer's corp., his best friend at West Point had just been killed in Vietnam, and he was threatened by a protester in England with a knife for defending the US in Vietnam. While Clark could have remained in Oxford, he chose to go....

You need an additional 6 to 10% of the military vote and you can even move "Red" states, never mind the swing states. Of all of the possible VP options, only, only, only Wes Clark can do that for Kerry.

I am personally ambivalent about this. Knowing Clark can seal the deal is great for us and our country, knowing that Wes and Gert have served and don't deserve having mud slung at them from both the right and the left makes me want to see that unique couple go stompin' off around the world doing anything they damn well please. I really have come to like them very much.

6 to 10% additional...the military vote that doesn't cross the street for a regular Dem, but would come if they knew that a General who won a war without losing an American life was about to save their friends and family.