Edwards NH Visit May be Groundwork for 2008
http://www.newsobserver.com/politics/politicians/edwards/story/2094948p-8473846c.htmlEdwards spoke at a Democratic dinner here in New Hampshire, in what many believe is his initial effort to lay the groundwork for the 2008 presidential campaign.
Edwards delivered a pointed and retooled message to a reeling Democratic Party: That the party is right on the issues and should stick to its core convictions, rather than shifting with the political winds because of the loss in November.
And Edwards dished up partisan red meat to the Democrats,
portraying Bush as a spokesman for privilege, while depicting Democrats as champions of the poor and the struggling middle class. "George Bush likes to talk about an Ownership Society," Edwards told 600 people at the party's annual 100 Club Dinner at a downtown hotel."We already have one: CEOs with jets; power companies that get their way even if the health of children and pregnant women suffer; oil companies who write our energy policy.
George Bush's Ownership Society is a secret society that rewards the wealthiest and shuts out those who work hard every day. "What we want is an Opportunity Society where everyone who works hard and does right has the chance to get ahead," Edwards said. "And you create an Opportunity Society by honoring work." Edwards was circumspect about his own political future, saying his trip was a thank-you to New Hampshire voters. He said he has not made any decision regarding his political future especially with his wife, Elizabeth, being treated for breast cancer. Elizabeth Edwards initially had planned to attend the dinner but decided to rest in Washington instead. Edwards said the doctors are "very pleased with the way her treatment is going and her response and are very optimistic."
Edwards was warmly received by the Democrats, complete with whistles and four standing ovations. He was mobbed by well-wishers. His speech was broadcast across the country by C-SPAN and was recorded by a large turnout of the national press corps, who were there to witness what might be the opening curtain of the 2008 presidential contest. "He made a lot of inroads here speaking about two Americas," said Paul Robitaille, Democratic chairman of Coos County who backed Kerry a year ago. "I get e-mails from some of my people urging him to run. I think he has a great future. He doesn't have to worry about being left out in the cold. He can reach a lot of working-class people that maybe we are losing."
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