George,

According to the latest CNN poll, as many people now think "the country would be better off if the Republicans controlled Congress" as if the Democrats controlled Congress. And the public has no idea what is in any of the many proposals now being considered in Congress. Thus, they are highly suspicious. Vast majorities think it will increase the deficit and increase taxes.

Once again, the Democrats have blown it on health care reform. Letting it be "made in Congress" is just as bad as "made in a closed room by policy wonks" -- the Hillary method. It takes Presidential leadership and constant explanation to sell reform. Sausage-making in Congress is ugly and impossible to follow. This leaves the Republicans (and other right wing groups) with the upper hand in saying what is in the various bills and what the Democrats are trying to do to the country.

The situation today is no different than in 1993 when explanation of health care proposals was left to Harry and Louise. By trying to avoid the mistakes of Bill and Hillary in 1993, Democratic strategists have essentially made the same mistakes -- letting the opposition define the proposals. President Obama should have made HIS proposals, kept explaining them to the public in simple terms, and shepherded them through Congress.

David RePass (Electronic mail, December 12, 2009)