OPINION: Obama Needs to Take a Stand

Obama had a chance to explain his vision on the economy in an interview with renowned New York Times economic reporter David Leonhardt. Obama began by saying: "My core economic theory is pragmatism, figuring out what works." That's fantastic. But how do you explain this to voters and make them understand what you plan to do?

Obama has to drop this penchant for nuanced answers. For example, he supported renegotiating free-trade agreements like NAFTA during the Democratic primaries. This pleased union leaders, who favor greater protections for the American worker. After the primary ended, he modified his rhetoric to say he supports free and fair trade. He cautiously tried to signal support for free markets. Which is it, Obama?

Luckily, Obama has an easy solution on economic matters. He has to position himself as a fighter for the middle class who will fight for good jobs and lower taxes for them. His life story perfectly illustrates the American dream. He came from a broken home and succeeded in life through education and hard work, not special treatment.

Obama benefited last week from Sen. John McCain's (R., Ariz.) gaffe on not knowing how many homes he owns. Obama has to demonstrate compassion for those facing tough economic times, those facing foreclosure and unemployment. He can then channel that compassion into his passion to fight for the American dream. He can follow the lead of former candidate John Edwards and become a voice for the lower and middle classes.

Obama can hammer President Bush and rival McCain for tax policies that have redistributed the balance of money from the middle class to the rich. Warren Buffet makes for a perfect example of the inequity. The billionaire investor says he pays about half the tax rate of his secretary because he pays capital gains of 15% compared to the 28% his secretary pays on income. Worse, the tax cut for Buffet has racked up budget deficits that our kids and grandkids will pay for years to come.