You have been the director of communications at the RNC for last two years and are leaving your position in February, 2010. You are now in search of a job and looking for a horse in the next Presidential contest: 2012. Among the possible contenders are the following (click on titles or names for a more detailed explanation):
• Former Governor Mitt Romney of Massachusetts
Pick one and write a memo to him or her providing strategic advice. The objective is to provide a plan on how your candidate should spend their resources (friends, time, money, media commentary, etc.) over the next 2 years.
Please consult the Almanac of American Politics to read up on your chosen contender. It will be necessary to comment on the candidate's personal background, political history, past statements, among others. Most importantly, you need to discuss what aspects of the candidate's present profile need to be enhanced or diminished to better position their candidacy.
Assume the following:
• Barack Obama won the presidency and will run for re-election.
• The House and Senate remain in Democrat control.
You memo should also address the following key elements in developing any serious campaign plan:
1. The candidate's perceived strengths and weaknesses.
2. Likely primary opponents and their strengths and weaknesses.
3. Lessons of 2008 primary election.
4. The 2012 primary calendar.
5. The issue landscape.
6. The impact of President Obama's first term.
As a speculative analysis, your memo must be a broad outline. This said, as a communications plan, it should comment on all of the necessary communication tactics your candidate should take to prepare for a run for the presidency.
This memo be no less than 1,000 words and include some type of timeline starting in February of 2010 and lasting until March of 2011.