There are too many people who see their vote for Obama as being part of History and are very reluctant to admit it was a mistake. Many of these could and did vote for GOP candidates in 2010 but actually voting against Obama is something most will not do. The fact that Romney’s campaign so far has not provided a compelling reason to vote FOR Romney adds to this voter dilemma. I suspect that unless there is additional egregious economic news that Romney will lose a close election. And given Rass’ comments today, i suspect that if Romney follows the path many here and other sites advise, go very negative on Obama, he will lose decisively. Given the psyche of many less partisan voters, i think they will stick with Obama for reasons of self esteem. Attacking him will IMO solidify that feeling. And yes it’s all about feeling. Rationality will play very little in this election. If it did, Romney would be measuring the drapes as we speak.
I don’t think you have to personally attack to run on ideology. This country considers itself 40% conservative and only 20% liberal. And on economic matters, 46% consider themselves fiscal conservatives, and less than 20% fiscal liberals. It’s a center-right country being governed by a hard leftist.
Not one person in prime time called Obama a liberal at the RNC. Some never even mentioned his name. No ads call Obama a liberal Etc.
They can drive home that he is out of the mainstream of American society, i.e. hard leftist without “attacking” him. IMO.