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Sunday, September 12, 2010

The You Tube President.

I just came back from shopping and in the store, I bumped into a stranger who was wearing an "Obama Sucks" tee shirt. I fully realize that this is free expression and is guaranted by our first amendment, but I was angry. I said nothing. The guy was much bigger than me and a bit menacing to look at, but as I left the store, I asked myself why someone is so angry at the President that they would wear such a slogan on their chest? Isn't he working hard at the job? Doesn't he really care about our country? Isn't he doing what we elected him to do? Yes to all three questions. It must be something else. Perhaps the message? President Obama is the darling of high tech. He understands the internet, used it to fuel his minions in 2008 and carries a blackberry. His presidency has been referred to as the You Tube Presidency. So why is he lagging in the polls, unable to connect? It seems counter-intutive. In wondering how to help him, I was thinking about FDR. During his presidency there was no cable, no universal ownership of TV, no internet, no instantaneous reporting of every bowel movement or tie selection and yet, FDR was able to reach America through his Fireside Chats. So, Mr. President, it is time to use your knowledge of today's technology and convert it to Fireside Chats, 2010 style. Don't hide. We need to see and hear more of you. Use this power of technology to fine tune your message in a simple and connectible way. Do not leave it to your advisors. They are running scared and giving you very bad advice. In addition, more prime time press conferences. You aren't afraid of the media. Remember, America hates them more than it does you. Tell us while we are watching about saving us from financial meltdown, about instituting the start of universal health care, about ending combat operations of the Iraq war, about how hard it still will be for us to fully recover but inspire us to again remember our greatness and our spirit. We will listen. The reporters will be inspired too. After all, we are all Americans. Remember, FDR did it without the Internet. You can do it too. I don't want to see any more of those tee shirts. Where are you Americans for reason and truth?

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