President Obama: Celebrate Your Success, Avoid Negative Ads

As President Barack Obama prepares to accept your party's nomination at this week's Democratic National Convention, let me offer him three key points you need to make to heighten your probability of getting re-elected on Nov. 6:

1. Clearly define how America IS better off than it was four years ago. Continue to acknowledge that there's much work to be done, but promote the programs and policies you've pushed through Congress to help get the country back on better financial footing. You need to highlight how every state has benefited from the stimulus package - yes, even all those Red State politicians who are now blaming that you need to get the "government" out of their lives.  Point out how ironic that some of these Republicans who have accused you of being bad for business are contributing heavily to Gov. Mitt Romney's campaign - and benefited from your bailout money.
2. Assert the need for quality, affordable health care as important to this country as its military.  Remind America how important it is to ensure that healthy citizens mean lower costs and taxes for everybody in the short - and long run. Push your opponents to explain what they will do for the millions of uninsured, the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions.
3. Remind America - and the world - how you do have a bold vision for America.  Your message of "hope and change" in 2008 helped elevate the mood of a country that was mired in depression and burdened by debt and war.  Accentuate all that you have done to celebrate America's diversity, a true asset to the country, and provide opportunities for so many. Remind Americans what you've done to invest in education, promote excellence and intellectualism.

The task is tall, Mr. President. The days are short between now and Election Day. The president has to focus on the future and stay away from gutter politics. He needs to have his surrogates quickly respond to the lies and half-truths that will be perpetuated by his opponents everyday. 

Let's hope Americans get inspired to particpate in this election, which is dragging on and avoiding serious talk about critical issues facing this country.