Cheerleading the nation

The (Jacksonville) Florida Times-Union

If the TV commercials that debuted last week are any indication, Americans can expect George W. Bush to run the most positive, uplifting presidential campaign since Ronald Reagan sought a second term 20 years ago.

In one ad, Bush assures listeners he understands the nation's entrepreneurial spirit, then adds, "Americans are hardworking, decent, generous people. I'm optimistic about America because I believe in the people of America." Another says: "An economy in recession. A stock market decline. A dot-com boom ... gone bust. Then ... a day of tragedy. A test for all Americans. Today, America is turning the corner. Rising to the challenge. Safer, stronger. President Bush. Steady leadership in times of change." ...

Bush may be accused of cheerleading for the nation, but a few cheers are due. The terrorists have been beaten back so decisively that most Americans say national security no longer is one of their primary concerns. The economic slump, which began a year before he took office, has been reversed and expansion is under way.

Bush's commercials stand in stark contrast to John Kerry's relentless attack ads. One, for example, recently insisted Bush had removed 200,000 veterans from health care. No veteran benefits have been ended under Bush. In fact, spending for veterans benefits has increased by 27 percent.