Karl Rove Gives Obama Six Pointers to Recover and Win

By Jeralyn, Section Elections 2008
Posted on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:01:27 PM EST
Tags: Barack Obama, 2008 (all tags)

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Karl Rove, writing in Newsweek, says Obama needs to recover from his recent fumbles. He offers six tips:

Get a new stump speech, the message in his current one has become old and tired.
When you're on the defense, as with Rev. Wright, choose one explanation and stick to it.
Get back to the Senate and do some work there. His legislative record is thin and needs bolstering. He says, pick an issue and own it.
Get back to the Senate, part II: Also, he hasn't shown he has the unifying ability he claims in his red states, blue states unity pitch. He should introduce bipartisan bills that Republicans can get behind. Also, name some specific Republicans he'd put in his Administration.

[More...]

Stop the partisan attacks. Don't do what you criticize. He's supposed to be above partisan politics and should act like it.
Offer up more substantive policy proposals. No more bluffing.

And don't think those position papers written by academics and posted on the Web do the job. They have a check-the-box quality to them. Americans want to see your passion and commitment to things they care about, in ways that give them confidence you're up to the job. They can smell when something is poll-tested and focus-grouped, not from the heart.

So, will Obama take Rove's advice? I doubt he'll go back to the Senate, he can't afford to lose time on the campaign trail. He probably won't retool his policies because that would require a lot of time learning the details of the new plans and he's going to be in defensive mode at least through May 6.

As to picking one story and sticking to it, if Obama picks up any more baggage like Wright and Rezko, it may not matter what story he tells. As to Wright and Rezko, it's too late. Although, Rezko is but a blip compared to the media sensation Wright is causing.

So, what advice does Rove have for Hillary?

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Karl Rove Gives Obama Six Pointers to Recover and Win | 102 comments (102 topical)

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Who cares what Rove thinks? (5.00 / 2) (#1)
by BDB on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:06:13 PM EST

Stop being partisan? Rove was telling him a few months ago to go on the attack. I'm with Glenn Greenwald on this. None of these guys are friends to either candidate.

I have some free advice for Obama (5.00 / 3) (#2)
by dianem on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:06:27 PM EST

Do not, under any circumstances, pay any attention to Karl Rove.

I have some free advice for Obama (5.00 / 2) (#4)
by delacarpa on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:11:00 PM EST

because we sure don't want Hillary to be the nominee because she will knock our socks off. He is a Hoot.


Don't worry, he will not take Rove's advice (5.00 / 2) (#23)
by angie on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:37:32 PM EST

it all seems really boring.


Depends How Desperate He Becomes... (none / 0) (#77)
by PssttCmere08 on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:23:02 PM EST

They are dissing him over at Orange.


: I wonder if that will surprise him..snicker.nt (none / 0) (#82)
by FlaDemFem on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:28:43 PM EST

backhanded compliments... (5.00 / 2) (#5)
by white n az on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:13:30 PM EST

Perhaps Obama can hire him

Karl Rove to Obama (5.00 / 3) (#6)
by Left of center on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:14:10 PM EST

Keep up the good work buddy, I couldn't stop her without you.

beware of (5.00 / 4) (#7)
by sarany on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:18:02 PM EST

Rove bearing gifts

You think Wright's performance hasn't (none / 0) (#25)
by inclusiveheart on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:37:42 PM EST

made Obama the "perfect" opponent for the Republican Party? More desireable than Clinton now? Of course, Rove is going to try to assist Obama out of this hole - temporarily.


: the key word (none / 0) (#36)
by sarany on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:54:38 PM EST

is "temporarily," as you note!!
Obama has been the golden boy until the media smelled blood. We are darned lucky this is happening and Hillary is still in.
Thank you Hillary, for having the grit and intelligence to hang in.

Newsweek must be worried-they (5.00 / 1) (#8)
by kenosharick on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:18:22 PM EST

along with Time have been blatantly pushing his candidacy.

Media supporting Obama (none / 0) (#67)
by SueBonnetSue on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:07:16 PM EST

Is there any written media, or cable, that doesn't support Obama? I've yet to read a column, or listen to a talking head, like Chris Mathews, or Keith Olberman, that wasn't fawning all over Obama. He's their 'love child', complete with the tingling legs and girlish giggles. Blech.


: Geez Sue, You made me throw up...lol (none / 0) (#78)
by PssttCmere08 on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:24:09 PM EST

Karl's Attack Plan is Hidden in the Advice... (5.00 / 6) (#9)
by mcdtracy on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:21:09 PM EST

Tired Message
Failing about on attacks
Inexperienced
Not a unifier (talk is cheap)
Won't fight back... wimp
No real policies

Hmmm... look familiar?

Advise to Chimpy? (none / 0) (#14)
by pie on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:23:43 PM EST

aka Worst President Ever?


: Darn. Advice. (none / 0) (#16)
by pie on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:24:05 PM EST

: Terms of Service clarification? (none / 0) (#100)
by andyt on Tue Apr 29, 2008 at 12:50:07 AM EST

I'm trying to find the language in the Comments Policy that explains how calling Mr. Obama "Barry" is prohibited, but calling the sitting President of the United States "Chimpy" is O.K.
By the way, can you guys implement a password recovery system that accepts e-mail addresses rather than nicknames as input? Occasional commenters can't always remember their nicknames.

this is good! (none / 0) (#55)
by bjorn on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:49:10 PM EST

I thought Rove's advice was worthless overall, but looking at it this way it does give Obama some insight into how they will go at him. You are good!


All those points will resonate with voters (none / 0) (#61)
by Prabhata on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:59:13 PM EST

who are borderline or cement their dislike for BO. They sure resonate with me. My reaction to those points is: yes, yes, yes, yes, yes and yes


ROVE: I hate that big headed freak, (5.00 / 2) (#18)
by Mrwirez on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:27:27 PM EST

but he knows the pol's. Also, that would have been better advice the first time Rev Wright showed up..... How can he do all that now? I would take KR with a grain of salt. He is helping BO (wink wink) because he knows Hillary would be a stronger candidate.

I must say I really like Hillary, but even I wince at the crap Obama has been getting.....I hate seeing Dems getting whacked..... I guess that is why he is the politician and I the electrician....

no name calling (none / 0) (#26)
by Jeralyn on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:39:00 PM EST

please. on anyone.


lol (none / 0) (#27)
by squeaky on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:40:54 PM EST

Oh, snap! (none / 0) (#31)
by angie on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:46:40 PM EST

how do you come up with such witty responses? "LOL" -- I never would have thought of that. lol


Sorry (none / 0) (#33)
by squeaky on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:50:19 PM EST

I am not being sarcastic I was enjoying Jeralyn's response and was lol, and still am.


well, if you weren't being sarcastic (none / 0) (#39)
by angie on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:02:52 PM EST

then I am sorry, because I thought you were.


No (none / 0) (#41)
by squeaky on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:05:25 PM EST

I was being literal.


Ok, got it! (none / 0) (#44)
by angie on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:13:23 PM EST

don't make me regret my apology. Sheesh.


Huh? (none / 0) (#46)
by squeaky on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:18:47 PM EST

He means "quit while you're ahead" ... (none / 0) (#62)
by cymro on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:59:52 PM EST

... I think.


: Hey, I'm a she, not a he1 :-) (none / 0) (#63)
by angie on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:00:54 PM EST

Sorry angie -- SHE, not he. (none / 0) (#64)
by cymro on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:01:24 PM EST

I should quit now, before I dig too deep a hole!


No Prob.... BUT (none / 0) (#105)
by Mrwirez on Tue Apr 29, 2008 at 03:53:48 PM EST

even Rove?? ;-]


Lost in all this, I lol'd at this line (none / 0) (#45)
by Cream City on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:17:55 PM EST

"he is the politician and I the electrician...."


Rove isn't a partisan anymore (none / 0) (#58)
by litigatormom on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:55:35 PM EST

He's a political commentator on Fox News and a columnist for Time. Or Newsweek. Whatever. He's a respectable member of the MSM now.

So we can trust him, right?


Suuuuuuuuuuure! Can I sell you a bridge? (none / 0) (#65)
by cymro on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:05:24 PM EST

Oh great! (none / 0) (#70)
by litigatormom on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:12:00 PM EST

I already own the Brooklyn Bridge. Do you have another one?

;-)


: How about the Bridge to Nowhere ... (none / 0) (#73)
by cymro on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:18:23 PM EST

... in Alaska? That would be just the ticket, right? And you've already made a down payment.

Obama is their dream candidate (none / 0) (#68)
by SueBonnetSue on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:09:16 PM EST

Republicans are loving Obama, almost as much as Chris Mathews, although probably not quite as much as Keith Olberman. Keith would marry Obama, and bear his children, if Obama would have him.


My Advise To Senator Obama (5.00 / 8) (#24)
by MO Blue on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:37:34 PM EST

Do not under any circumstance go back to the Senate and introduce a Republican bill. The only bills the Republicans get behind are those that advance their agenda.

Start talking like a Democrat and stop praising Republicans. You have already done too much to rehabilitate the Republican Party as it is. Please do not do anymore damage.

Spend more time criticizing Republicans and explaining how their conservative agenda has been harmful to the American people.

Stop all divisive talk about how Clinton and her supporters are racists, calls for Hillary to drop out and the threats about what will happen if "Clinton Steals The Election." Get your supporters under control.

Quit distorting the facts about the Clinton economy. People need to be reminded that they were better off financially during a Democratic president. You will need that economy if you are the nominee.

Quit distorting the facts about the Clinton Health Care Plan. You are losing any credibility on Health Care.

Do not throw anymore Democratic core issues under the bus.

I agree with Rove on no more bluffing. Senator Obama,, you know those policy positions on your website. Please take some time and learn the details of those policies. You sound like you don't know what you are talking about.

And about the use of surrogates (5.00 / 6) (#47)
by Cream City on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:20:30 PM EST

like Clyburn? A word of advice: Witness, with the Reverend Wright, that surrogates are seen as just that -- speaking for you. So the mudslinging of constant charges of racism just come back and dirty you, Obama. And you can't just flick that dirt off your shoulder.


Seems like Wright stole the spotlight (5.00 / 1) (#49)
by nycstray on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:24:28 PM EST

from Clyburn. Haven't heard boo about it on our local news. Or even the national overnight news.

Is the 'Clintons are racists' still playing currently? Is anybody listening?


I would not underestimate (5.00 / 1) (#57)
by bjorn on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:53:11 PM EST

how this might be spreading in the AA community. I don't think the Clintons can do anything but what they have been doing, but I think they have taken a beating that will take real repair work if she manages to get the nomination. And even if they don't! I am not saying they earned, but I think that is the reality.


: The AA Community Is Smarter Than Obama (5.00 / 1) (#80)
by PssttCmere08 on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:27:47 PM EST

gives them credit for. They can put two and two together. And you know some will equate Hillary with Bill in regards to the 8 years of a better life under his administration.

Obama can only use a trick (5.00 / 2) (#50)
by Virginian on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:24:47 PM EST

so many times...I actually really think the race card was played to early, too fast and too much by Obama and team...

This was a trick that really should have had its potency save for the GE...where it could have had George Allen like effects for the Republican party...all the way down the ticket (for possibly many election cycles)...it was misplayed...

With that said...I think using the race issue early in the primary campaign was also the only way Obama could have rocketed to the front runner status...it was/is a deep wound to the Clinton campaign, and has fortified the AA support firmly against her...


Coins have two sides (5.00 / 1) (#74)
by Prabhata on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:20:02 PM EST

Rarely one wins with either. BO used the race card, and cemented his position with the AA, but in the process alienated many who saw the game. I for one was so disgusted, I promised myself to never vote for him. When Wright erupted and race became an issue he gave "the speech" and tried to fix the problem, but it was too late. The race baiting and then Wright united to give him the image of the "Black candidate", but unlike J.Jackson, who I really liked during his campaign because he emphasized a "rainbow coalition", BO is just divisive. I see him as a phony playing the race card subliminally while talking about unity. All hat and no cattle. If he had chosen to leave race as an issue and stopped the race baiting in SC, I would have admired him and supported him for VP. I even thought he might make a good candidate for the Supreme Court. Now I just want him to go back to the Senate for good. If he gets elected as a senator, good for him, but I would be happy if I never see his face as a candidate for anything ever again.


Exactly.. I was chatting with my (5.00 / 1) (#86)
by FlaDemFem on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:47:47 PM EST

friend Margaret about this today. She said that the Wright controversy is giving AAs who wanted to vote for Hillary, but were torn because of the chance of having the first AA president, the opportunity to do so. Now they can go vote for Hillary without feeling guilty about it. The AA community does love the Clintons. I think also we may see a big dip in the AA vote for Obama in NC. He has shot himself in the foot for the last time. What she said was telling, she said he has embarrassed the black community by exposing Wright's racism. And apparently it is considered extreme, even in the activist AA community. Rage against the white establishment is not considered a bad thing, racism of the sort that Wright espouses is considered a bad thing. There is a difference, and the AA community, for the most part, is aware of it and does not condone Wright's views.


Using the race card (none / 0) (#88)
by wasabi on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 11:14:20 PM EST

I have many friends who accept the idea that the Clinton's are fully responsible for all the race-baiting in this campaign. It's not just in the AA community. That racist charge really affronts democrats to the core. My friends who don't pay close attention to the race are appalled by what they perceive is the mud slinging by Hillary's team. And there are many, many people who are not political junkies who just tune in on the periphery. The media drives the narrative.


: How Many Is Many? (none / 0) (#92)
by PssttCmere08 on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 11:52:40 PM EST

One correction (none / 0) (#103)
by Virginian on Tue Apr 29, 2008 at 07:37:50 AM EST

When Wright erupted and race became an issue he gave "the speech" and tried to fix the problem, but it was too late.

Obama and campaign made Wright about race; the issue raised by Wrights rhetoric were not substantially about race, but rather about patriotism/nationalism...Wright was saying uncouth things about the country not white people...Obama's speach was a slight-of-hand, not truly an addressing of Rev. Wright...therefore I would argue that Obama was using race to distract from Wright, playing the race card again...


Surrogate Wright (none / 0) (#69)
by SueBonnetSue on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:11:00 PM EST

How does Obama stop Wright from being his surrogate? It's too late to disavow Wright.


: Not when he said that Wright was like an uncle (none / 0) (#75)
by Prabhata on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:20:38 PM EST

And by all means (5.00 / 1) (#54)
by cal1942 on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:42:20 PM EST

name those Republicans you'd want in an administration.

If nominated and elected it's what we believe you'd do anyway. Unity and all that.

Do go back to the Senate and stay there until your term expires.


Guess Rove Wasn't Listening When Obama (none / 0) (#84)
by MO Blue on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:36:27 PM EST

mentioned Hagel for Sec. Of Defense and Luger for Sec. Of State.


actually (none / 0) (#94)
by Jeralyn on Tue Apr 29, 2008 at 12:15:50 AM EST

Rove had another part to that I didn't quote, it was that he should not only name the Republicans he would appoint but get them to agree to it. I don't know that Hagel or Luger have said they'd accept.


: Well I Think This Is A Very Bad Idea (5.00 / 2) (#101)
by MO Blue on Tue Apr 29, 2008 at 01:06:35 AM EST

If I wanted Republicans at Defense and State, I would vote Republican. To me this sends a message that the Republicans are better at foreign affairs than Democrats. Just reinforces one of the Republican's major attacks against the Dems of being weak on defense. This is another strike against Obama IMO.

MO Blue, (5.00 / 1) (#97)
by cpinva on Tue Apr 29, 2008 at 12:43:35 AM EST

good suggestions. only one eensie weensie, itty bitty, teeny weeny problem i see with them:

were sen. obama to act on them, he'd have a difficult time justifying his candidacy, as they all pretty much confirm that sen. clinton is the one who clearly should be the dem. nominee.

the reason he's having such a difficult time of it now is because, well, he really had no business running in the first place. following those suggestions would be a total capitulation to sen. clinton.

i wish he would get out now, before he becomes irretrievably damaged goods, like a rookie QB in the nfl, tossed to the wolves way before he's ready, and an entire investment wasted.


My advice to Obama. Drop out now. (5.00 / 2) (#29)
by Angel on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:44:29 PM EST

Exactly mine as well. (none / 0) (#71)
by alexei on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:17:42 PM EST

that's not fair (none / 0) (#95)
by Jeralyn on Tue Apr 29, 2008 at 12:16:35 AM EST

any more than it's fair to call on Hillary to drop out. They both have every right to stay in.


: certainly they do jeralyn. (none / 0) (#98)
by cpinva on Tue Apr 29, 2008 at 12:49:35 AM EST

whether it's a good idea to do so is an entirely different matter. everyone conveniently glosses over that.
if, by continuing, sen. obama destroys any future chance he may have, then the wisest course would be for him to gracefully bow out. the campaign isn't going to get any easier, and he hasn't even faced the right-wing 527's in full braying mode yet.
he who fights and runs away, lives to fight another day.
to quote the ferengi "rules of acquisition", "never pay more for something than you have to."

Obama would be wise (5.00 / 3) (#32)
by Firefly4625 on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:46:44 PM EST

to heed this one:

"Offer up more substantive policy proposals. No more bluffing."

Seriously, this is why Obama loses debates - no meat - he just sorta orates on and on and on...People want to know - what, specifically, are you going to do? Details. Passion. Substance. Policy. Plans.

Must admit, though, I do find it ironic that Rove suddenly eschews "bluffing" when with Rove's help, his guy, the chimperor, pulled the biggest con job in American history.

He cannot compete with HRC on substance (5.00 / 2) (#81)
by Prabhata on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:27:57 PM EST

He'll really look stupid, like when he said he'd go back to Reagan's tax rate for capital gains. After the debate he said to Wallace that 20 percent, HRC's number was good. He's ignorant on economic issues when "it's economy, stupid" all over again. He thought that he could bluff his way to victory, like he's always done with prior elections. If anyone wants to be impressed with HRC, see her last interview with Jim Cramer. My degree is business administration, and she impressed me, but more importantly, she impressed Cramer as the best candidate with "sophisticated knowledge" about the economy. That's impressive.


: Sum & Substance (none / 0) (#104)
by BackFromOhio on Tue Apr 29, 2008 at 09:42:24 AM EST

I agree that Obama cannot compete with Hillary on policy substance as things stand now. But he is very smart, and if he and the campaign put their minds to it...
but it may be too late.

Obama's sermons (4.00 / 1) (#72)
by SueBonnetSue on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:18:05 PM EST

Up until now, Obama hasn't had to produce anything substantial. People love his inspiring sermons. His sermons make them feel good. But it's now time to tell us exactly who he is and what he intends to do. Change to what? Unify who? Clearly not Blacks and Whites when he supports Black separatism.

I think that's the reason everyone cares about what Wright says. No one really knows what Obama thinks. He has been around long enough to have a record. Is he far left? Or far right? Is he a black separatist? Who the hell is his guy? Being that Obama spent 20 years in Wright's church, and raises his children in that church, it's not a stretch to think that Obama agrees with Wright. If not, why would he have given Wright so much money? Why did he give Wright $27,000, in 2007? Wright is scaring people because no one knows who Obama really is.


: Obama Could Be Just Political Reasons (none / 0) (#85)
by MO Blue on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:39:24 PM EST

Michele sounds more like a true believer.

Rove is no (5.00 / 1) (#34)
by Lil on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:52:21 PM EST

friend to Obama or any other reasonable person.

Axelrod has pen in hand (5.00 / 2) (#35)
by txpolitico67 on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:52:55 PM EST

and is writing these points down as we speak. What would be good offense for the Clinton campaign would be, "wow Senator Obama, I see that you are taking KARL ROVE'S advice..."

Team Hillary 1
Obama/Rove 0

Rove et als is expecting Obama to win (5.00 / 2) (#37)
by Virginian on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:59:02 PM EST

anyway...the advice has no purpose but to set the narrative for the GE.

Rove is "defining" Obama with the "advice." Believe it or not, but Obama is still an undefined commodity, very plastic -- Obama has not been successful and defining himself, and this is what the Republican operatives are taking full advantage of...Rove's advice makes Obama into a Kerry/McGovern (which unfortunately, I agree he probably is...but I'll still vote for him).

Just as Bill Kristol's compliments and defense of HRC is defining the media for the GE; "too easy on BO, and didn't give HRC respect" in order to push the media into being more critical of BO in the GE.

This is all very much like chess...setting up the next move...lets not get caught looking...

My advice to Obama (5.00 / 6) (#38)
by Serene1 on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:02:00 PM EST

You have a v. loyal bunch of supporters. capitalize on it. Give them something anything or at the least a shout out to them. Currently these supporters are confused, if you would just energize them things will be better for you and maybe just maybe you can come out of this Wright mess with their help.

My advice to Hillary
Keep doing whatever you are doing. Its working well. Your supporters believe in you and are willing to go that extra mile for you. And you have not disappointed them instead you have always acknowledged their contribution and have always vowed to fight for them. All the Best!

: You're right (5.00 / 4) (#48)
by Virginian on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:20:39 PM EST

but Obama has painted himself into a corner...his supporters don't really represent what he believes or the platform which he supports...that much I think is very clear...
So throwing his supporters some red meat is tantamount to admitting to hypocrisy...people generally don't like to admit to being hypocrites.

saw this on another blog (5.00 / 0) (#40)
by athyrio on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:05:05 PM EST

Obama has good standing amongst Wright-wing voters!

a good pun....or very punny lol.....

Rove's advice to Hillary is (5.00 / 4) (#42)
by uppity kitty on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:09:25 PM EST

please don't send me to jail Madam President.

Translation (5.00 / 1) (#53)
by daryl herbert on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:37:48 PM EST

* Get back to the Senate and do some work there. His legislative record is thin and needs bolstering. He says, pick an issue and own it.

Pick a policy issue. Come up with a substantive proposal. Draft a bill. Try to ram it through in the next three months. Good luck getting anything done on such a short schedule! Good luck getting anything done with Republicans and Clinton-supporting Dems looking to block you from getting an accomplishment before the convention.

Stop worrying about your campaign and instead get bogged down in a policy issue that you can't possibly resolve in time for the election. Take a specific stand that will anger your voters who don't want it, and then fail to get the bill passed, disappointing your voters who do want it.

* Get back to the Senate, part II: Also, he hasn't shown he has the unifying ability he claims in his red states, blue states unity pitch. He should introduce bipartisan bills that Republicans can get behind.

Help us Republicans get some legislation passed. It's hard here with a lame duck in the Oval Office and minorities in the House and Senate.

* Stop the partisan attacks. Don't do what you criticize. He's supposed to be above partisan politics and should act like it.

Stop criticizing Republicans. Your interview with Chris Wallace--pure gold.

Keep slamming Bill Clinton's economy. That's a very post-partisan way to sell yourself. You can bash Bush without being partisan, you just have to bash Bill Clinton at the same time!

Sincerely, your bestest friend, Karl Rove

Rove doesn't need to advise Hillary (none / 0) (#3)
by stillife on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:08:48 PM EST

she's doing just fine on her own! I have admit that I find Rove's commentary quite interesting. I know he's the devil, but he's a smart devil, and Obama would be well advised to take his tips.

I read an interview last week where Rove was asked who he thought was the better candidate and he wouldn't respond on the record. I have a strong feeling that he said it was Hillary.

I don't like KR's advice for him (5.00 / 2) (#51)
by moll on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:24:51 PM EST

...the basic problem for Obama with the working class as I see it is that he is culturally to the left of them and economically to the right of them.


: What could be worse? (none / 0) (#76)
by SueBonnetSue on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:21:09 PM EST

For getting their votes?
Is it true that the rich liberals love this stuff that Wright and Obama are saying? That's what I am hearing, but I don't know any of the rich elite liberals, the NY types, so I can't really say what they think.

iirc - Obama has missed 40% of Senate votes (none / 0) (#10)
by Josey on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:21:23 PM EST

Why is Karl Rove (none / 0) (#12)
by pie on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:22:10 PM EST

being given a podium, especially to advise a democratic candidate?

Help me here, someone.

Don't worry about it (none / 0) (#15)
by TeresaInSnow2 on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:23:55 PM EST

Just think of him like a train wreck. He's awful, he's ugly, but you can't help watching.


he's earning the fee (none / 0) (#17)
by Jeralyn on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:26:45 PM EST

that Newsweek is paying him. He's allowed to pick his topics, just as his counterpoint, Markos of Daily Kos is. As long as his columns are related to politics and the election, I'm sure Newsweek is fine with it.

BTW, Newsweek also publishes TalkLeft's election related blogposts at its page, The Ruckus. Liberal and conservative blogs are represented equally. The newest posts go at the top.


: Well, that was odd (none / 0) (#59)
by waldenpond on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:56:57 PM EST

AB Stoddard got calling Clinton a name when she didn't think her mic was on. Silly joke. :)

that's Obama alright (none / 0) (#13)
by pluege on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:23:28 PM EST

'get on back to the Senate and pass some republican legislation'...yea, that's the ticket.

got to give unka karl credit, he sure captured Obama.

I hope the "top librul A-list bloggers' are happy - that's their man.

Rove looks like a light bulb (none / 0) (#28)
by angie on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:43:33 PM EST

I hate him too. I also hate any Dem. getting whacked, but really, Obama has kind of brought this on himself -- he knew about his "troubling" associations, and he should have diffused them better. Rezko, Wright & Ayers are all Obama, not Hillary.


: Um, I thought I was posting (none / 0) (#30)
by angie on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:44:45 PM EST

in response to Mrwirez post. sorry.

I think Obama is listening (none / 0) (#19)
by MichaelGale on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:30:24 PM EST

REally. Rove is right on......but

Hmmm... I would say... (none / 0) (#20)
by Jerrymcl89 on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:33:13 PM EST

... that "Pick a story and stick to it" and "Get a new stump speech" are probably legitimately decent advice. The rest are things that Rove has to know aren't viable. It's not like going back to Washington to write legislation that Republicans would support in an election year is even vaguely plausible - is he supposed to get McCain as a co-sponsor?

: Unifier? (none / 0) (#79)
by SueBonnetSue on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:24:27 PM EST

Well...........as long he wants to claim that he is a unifier, shouldn't he do something that demonstrates his ability to unify?
The stump speech is getting old. Yeah, yeah, we all want change, but it's now time for Obama to say what he's going to change to. Specifics baby, specifics.

Are You Kidding? (none / 0) (#21)
by squeaky on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:37:03 PM EST

Rove's advice? He only exists in order to attain permanent Republican rule. That is his olympic ambition.

Some would call his advice that of a concern troll.

There is something to be said for not being in such a rush about deciding who the Dem nominee is. The Republicans will not have a single target, and will have to spend much more money. One thing for sure is that they have the anti-Hillary ads ready to go.

The last person who Obama should listen to: Rove (none / 0) (#22)
by ajain on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 08:37:27 PM EST

I'm no Obama fan, but even consider that Rove has some good intention rooted in his advice is really silly.

I think he is asking him to introduce legislation so that Republicans can get into a full-fledged fight with him and paint him as incompetent and sharply partisan.

I think Rove's advice is sincere... (none / 0) (#43)
by Exeter on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:10:09 PM EST

...it's just that great.

Get a new stump speech? Yeah, Karl most Americans haven't heard his stump speech. Yes, politicos such as Karl and the people here have heard his stump a 30 or 40 times, but most people have not really heard it all.

On the defensive, stick with one story? Yeah, how's that workin out for ya, Karl?

Go back to the Senate? Your not going to be able to change the fact that you have the weakest resume of any major party candidate running for president.

Stop the partisan attacks? Yeah... because the media holds you "accountable" every time you do... oh wait, that's Hillary.

Offer up more substantive policy? OK, not all bad advice -- Obama could be better served by throwing something substantive in his answers.

Advice to Lucy part II (none / 0) (#52)
by Lora on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:31:45 PM EST

Get some fresh air -- you're looking old and tired. Night air, if possible.
When your friends worry about your health, choose one explanation and stick to it. Make sure it has nothing to do with bites or bats.
Get back into your social life - pick one social circle and own it. Preferably one that rubs elbows with foreign Counts.
Reach out to your foreign guests. For example, encourage your circle of friends to see for themselves how charming and what great company a specific Transylvanian Count can be.
Call off Von Helsing. If you give that madman any credence you are not serious about reaching out to someone from a different culture.
Offer to spend more time with Count Dracula. Stop bluffing.

Heh.. (none / 0) (#60)
by Adept Havelock on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 09:58:55 PM EST

Hey Coach Lomabardi! You should listen to Coach Halas in Chicago! I'm sure he has your best interests in mind.

: errr... (none / 0) (#66)
by Adept Havelock on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:05:35 PM EST

Lombardi.

BO loses if he follows and if he does not follow (none / 0) (#83)
by Prabhata on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 10:34:06 PM EST

Rove's advice. If he tries to put substance into his speeches, he'll look defective because he cannot learn what takes years to learn. Believe me, economic issues are complicated and it's easy to say the wrong thing have his words taken apart by people like Krugman. If he does not and continues to play it safe, he looks like a weakling. Heads, he loses; tails, he loses. Quit Obama!

: Let's have the primaries finish (none / 0) (#90)
by felizarte on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 11:35:26 PM EST

We hated it when there were calls for Hillary. We all said to let the primaries finish. So let him run the race to the finish. If both candidates can continue with dignity and concern for the GE, it will benefit the Democratic Party as well as the democratic process we have in the country.

Are you kidding me? (none / 0) (#87)
by Arabiflora on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 11:00:41 PM EST

I'm an Obama supporter but check in here to TalkLeft regularly to see what "the other side" is saying. It's pretty thin gruel on offer if headline posts regurgitate Rove's "helpful" suggestions to Dem candidates.

Perhaps the next post will feature Joe Lieberman's views?

: I'd say its a sad day (none / 0) (#89)
by Marvin42 on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 11:24:22 PM EST

If Carl Rove has to give advice to the supposed front runner of the democratic primary, it says a lot about the strength of our almost-was-nominee.

: If Lieberman's suggestions (none / 0) (#96)
by Jeralyn on Tue Apr 29, 2008 at 12:20:18 AM EST

make the national news, I'll probably write about it. Almost all my blog posts are taken from the news of the day. Doesn't mean I agree with it, it means it's a topic a lot of people are reading about.

: Rove tried to get (none / 0) (#99)
by Salo on Tue Apr 29, 2008 at 12:49:56 AM EST

Fitzgerald off the Rezko case, so maybe Rove is sincerely trying to help here too.
Ah that was like Tball.

I'd listen to Yoko Ono... (none / 0) (#91)
by Marco21 on Mon Apr 28, 2008 at 11:38:44 PM EST

covering Maria Callas before listening to one word of advice from Karl.

Maybe Rove is angling (none / 0) (#102)
by mg7505 on Tue Apr 29, 2008 at 01:38:38 AM EST

to be in the Obama Administration. Now THAT would be hilarious.

But more seriously, I wonder if this will stop Obamaphile's attacks that "Rove is praising/advising Hillary therefore she's evil!" But who knows where the Obama Rules will lead? Tomorrow this will all be Hillary's fault.