Tom Vilsack and the American Dream

Governor Tom Vilsack brought his presidential bid to Sioux City, Iowa. Vilsack is not the most dynamic Democratic hopeful in the field but he hit an interesting note on the American dream. Here's Bret Hayworth of the Sioux City Journal with the story:

Northwest Iowans got a glimpse of a different Tom Vilsack Wednesday.

After coming to know Vilsack during his two terms as Iowa governor -- he still has eight days left as governor -- political junkies turning out to see him at the Elks Lodge in Sioux City heard him talk about fiscal responsibility, aiding education and improving access to health care and health insurance.

(snip)

...Vilsack contended he is the Democrat who can right America's ship after years of failed leadership under George W. Bush.

He said a majority of American youth "do not believe in the American Dream" and that they can achieve it. He said it's becoming more difficult for the middle class to make due in the early 21st century as well.

"We need an economy that works for all of the people," he said, pointing to the need to become energy independent through renewable, homegrown energies, to reduce the 47 million Americans without health insurance and to make tougher federal budget decisions rather than running up the federal debt.

It hits a nerve with me that a majority of young Americans do not much believe they have a future. It also resonates with my knowledge of the history of the 1930s—and that's a bit of a shock. Vilsack should develop that theme more and also the theme that he can bring hope to America's young.

It would not surprise me if other candidates start picking up some of this theme for their own campaigns.