5 Things the President Should Say Tonight

...but probably won't.

Tonight is the annual State of the Union speech by the President. It is strange to think this is actually Obama’s third major address to Congress. Things have changed significantly since his last attempt in September to persuade lawmakers-and their constituents watching from home-that the health care bill should be passed. Voters have been sending clear messages ever since.

Here’s what he should say:

1. Admit that health care failed because the people do not want it. Americans are a forgiving people especially of their presidents when they fail if they admit they were wrong. He should vow to start over on health care. This time he should offer a real seat at the table to Republicans and adopt some of their better ideas. If he does, he might save his party from disaster in November.
2. Own up to not keeping the promises he made on the campaign trail about honesty and transparency in government. The backroom deals like the Louisiana Purchase, the Cornhusker Kickback, the deal to exempt unions from the “Cadillac tax,” and negotiating the final bill behind closed doors have put off the American people. He needs to explain why he was willing to tolerate such corruption and promise to come through next time. (And really do it this time.)
3. Focus on jobs and the economy. Obama should support extending (or even better, making permanent) the Bush tax cuts set to expire this year. Anything less will harm the economy, penalize marriage, and amount to a tax increase at the worst possible time. If he were smart he would embrace further tax cuts on businesses who hire in 2010-2011 and capital gains.
4. Focus on housing. It was the fall of the housing market that created this financial mess in the first place. That sector is still very weak. Call out corrupt Democrats who prevented real reforms of Fannie and Freddy. Extend tax credits for home buyers, especially first time.
5. Recognize the threat we face from radical Islamic terrorists. Obama should change course on giving the protections due American citizens to terrorists. He should announce a reversal of his policy on Guantanamo and send the Panty Bomber there immediately. If he chooses not to do these things he should explain why he thinks Miranda rights are vital when combating terrorists. Of course, they are not so he will not broach the subject.

The President will certainly not address any of these issues in the big speech and if he does, it will not be the way I would. Nevertheless, this is his best chance to right his ship. The “blame Bush for everything” rhetoric is starting to feel as if he is on the plank not at the wheel where he belongs. If he can demonstrate leadership then his presidency can still turn out quite successful. But if he clings to his power grabbing ideology the ship carrying his political fortunes will certainly sink.

If you were the President’s speech writer what policy or idea would you insist on adding and why?

Tags: BO, economy, health care, Obama, Tax Cuts