Back in 2008, political commentators and voters extolled then-candidate Barack Obama communications skills. From “A More Perfect Union” at Philadelphia’s National Constitution Center, to his election night victory speech in Chicago’s Grant Park, then-Senator Obama riveted the American people with his oratory.
Political speeches and campaign rhetoric are worlds apart from selling actual policy to the American people. From the Affordable Care Act to his recent debate with Republican nominee Mitt Romney, critics have charged that President Obama just can’t get his message across without a teleprompter.
Editor-in-chief of the Washington Monthly Paul Glastris was once a speechwriter for President Bill Clinton. He explains President Obama’s messaging problem, and how the President should prepare for tonight’s debate.