The Democrats are in a mess of their own making. By maintaining for years that President Biden is not only fine but he's at the top of his game, they're less than four months from an election with no clear path to victory. Post-debate, the game was all but over. Even some strong supporters are calling Biden to resign. Some want him to run because he has the primary delegate ballots and the funds to compete. Others are already supporting Kamala Harris because she could have access to Biden's campaign funds. Unfortunately, she's black, a woman, but not competent or popular. When she competed with other Democrat candidates in 2020, she could only secure 3% of the Democrat vote. To win against Donald Trump seems to be a pipe dream. But with the Republican Convention starting next week, it's time to make Democratic chances even worse.
With the disarray in the Democratic Party, it would be easy for former President Trump to feel overconfident. He has done a good job of letting Biden's problems take the media focus. After all, sometimes silence is the best response. But next week in Milwaukee, Trump will headline the Republican National Convention. He has already had an impact on the Republican platform. He will most likely announce his Vice-Presidential choice from a very strong bench of possible candidates. But there is still danger if he gives the "Hate Trumpers" ammunition. The Democrats drove the "hate Trump" message to victory in 2020. Republicans can't let that work again.
Forget focusing on attacking Biden. Democrats want Trump to attack. Demonizing Trump is all they have. With the media turning on Biden and throwing bomb after bomb at his attempt to stay in the race. With even the New York Times calling for him to step down, Trump need not join the chorus.
Every time Trump speaks now and during the convention he should drive one message-what he will you do as President. Stress how he will take away the pain Americans are facing every time they go to the market, fuel up their car, or draw from their ever-decreasing savings. Voters want answers, not attacks. Trump has the solutions they need-open up an all-of-the-above energy plan, secure the border, keep your tax cuts in place, support school choice, limit small business regulations, support law and order, and start cutting the size of government by requiring zero-based budgeting. Trump has a powerful platform that gives people a reason to vote. Let them know that is why you are returning to office.
Call for the votes from all Americans, not just your loyal fans. Let them know that you want to be President for all Americans. Voters have had four years of Trump and nearly four years of Biden. Keep asking, were you better off when I was President or since Biden has taken office. They have said Trump will be a dictator! Was he before? They say that he will never leave office, if elected! Did he leave office last time? Trump must let voters know he is coming back to Washington with a little more humility, an awareness of the need to bring in the right people into his administration, and a commitment to attack less and focus on delivering all he has promised from day one.
Often, a Presidential choice for Vice President seems to matter little, but this year it could be different. Trump has great choices to choose from. There are two candidates who give voters a candidate who could easily step in as President if called to and would solidify Trump's gains in reaching out to minority Americans. In short, both Senators Tim Scott and Senator Marco Rubio would be ideal picks. Both have campaigned for President, are younger, and are well respected.
Trump's message should be simple and communicated at every opportunity: "I will be your President-President for ALL of you. I know many of you are having a hard time making ends meet. I have specific policy changes that will impact your pocket book every time you go to the market or fill up your car. Give me control of the Senate and the House, and we will make a difference as soon as we take office. With Biden, you have had four years of Democrat overreach. Are you better off? I trust you are ready to help me Make America Great Again! I am asking for your vote. Give us the chance, and you will not be disappointed!"
When your opponent is down, keep him down. When he is on the ropes, take advantage and give him your best shot. This is not the time for complacency, but a time to increase one's lead by promoting a platform that truly could make America great for years to come. May it be so!
Terry Paulson is PhD psychologist, author, and professional speaker on Earned Optimism, Making Change Work, Claiming Your American Dream, and Becoming a Conservative Values Voter. Contact him at terry@terrypaulson.com.