Let’s see. I’ve already talked about religion here, when I talked about how missions prepare Mormon men and women for leadership positions.
So why not talk politics, too?
Actually, I’ve been trying to find both communication and leadership lessons in what’s happening in Washington. Because I’m so disgusted by it all, it’s hard to separate the emotion from the business.
But I think I finally have it. And this is not about whose side of the fence you’re on. This is about both communication and leadership.
I live in Chicago. That immediately makes me an Obama fan. Even if you don’t agree with his politics, when he was elected, all of Chicago was on fire.
It was really fun living here that first year as they talked about where he and Michelle were eating and how they were spending their time when they came home.
We even rode our bikes, one Sunday afternoon, through Hyde Park to see the police surrounding his house, which is now a historical feature.
But what he did last week, for his 50th birthday, is not just astounding, it’s a poor lesson in leadership. And it’s a poor lesson in communication because we all know perception is reality.
Here is what I know:
- Obama is going to run for office again and the election is next year.
- Obama turned 50 and wanted to celebrate in his hometown. One plate at his dinner party was $35,800
- The most any individual can donate to a political party is $35,800.
- Last week marked one of our country’s biggest historical moments when Congress nearly put us into another Depression.
- Last week our credit was downgraded.
So, in order to take the emotion out, I thought about this as if I were his on his communication staff. Let’s even say I’m the first person he turns to, when it comes to communication.
This is the conversation I would have with him:
Mr. President, I love birthdays. You know this because I announce my birthday right after the first of the year and I count down until it happens. I think everyone should celebrate their birthdays in the biggest way possible. BUT. If you have your party in Chicago, no matter the reality of your needing to raise money for your campaign, the perception will be that you’re above what the rest of the country is experiencing with the debt ceiling and the possibility our credit will be downgraded. I know it’s been a long time since you’ve had to pay college loans, but 95 percent of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. Small businesses don’t have cash hoarded. It’s time to step up, be a leader, and show what you’re made of. Show Americans you are willing to sacrifice with them. We can delay your party and have it in a few months, when things settle down.
Maybe that conversation did happen and he chose, instead, to go ahead with his party. Maybe it was too late to cancel the thing, when he realized Congress didn’t yet have a solution. But I know that if I were advising him and he didn’t take this advice, I’d resign.
He has lost his soul, so to speak. We became me, which became removed, and distant from the common man. In essence, the man has succumbed to the game.
Such great advice — and not JUST for the leader of the free world. Sure wish you were the first one he turned to for communication advice. In fact, maybe I’ll forward your name to someone in the White House … assuming you want to take a big pay cut.
@PenPointer And work even more than I do now…which kind of seems impossible but know it’s true.
@geoffliving I know. It makes me sad. Of course, we don’t know what goes on behind closed doors or what kind of advice he’s getting, but I do know perception is reality…and the reality of his party during the week of all of this happening is ill-timed.
I would have suggested to him to donate the money to charity to save face. Having such a lavish party with what is going on in our country makes you look like an egomaniac.
The best way out would be for him to help his hometown. What more gracious act than to donate the whole wad of money to various charities?
I love birthdays too.
PS – My boyfriend and President Obama have the same birthday. Just saying.
@NancyD68 He needs to raise the money for his campaign. I get that. I just think the timing of doing it was really ill-timed. And let’s be real, a bunch of celebrities aren’t going to pay $35,800 to go to a party if it doesn’t help them in some way. If he were to donate the money, they’d just donate it themselves to their own charities.
@ginidietrich It would make him look like a hero to donate at least some of it though. Either that, or cancel the party altogether, and have beer and hot dogs just with the members of his inner circle. He really looks bad for this, and didn’t this also make driving around near impossible for you?
@ginidietrich@geoffliving It is Washington after all and should any of us be surprised? If you recall one of the more famous books from a recent political figure was called Spin Cycle. And Geoff your comment, this post and the party make me think that sooner or later there will be a London situation stateside.
What is clear the world over is that there is the ‘Real world’ where most of us live, and there is the world in which our ‘leaders’ (government/political/corporate) live.
You very rarely get to see inside this ‘other world’ – but when you do – it generally scares the beejeezus out of us….(The Movie ‘Inside Job’ is Halloween/Freddie/Paranormal Activity all rolled into a very scary one…)
When Obama came to office (yes over in Edinburgh I was up watching and cheering) – it felt like the tide had a chance to turn. Sadly, that tide has not turned and continues to get stronger (washing many more of us out the way).
How do we change it???
Stage #1 – go get that gig as Obama’s Press adviser!!!
This might be one of my favorite posts ever. And partly because of the bipartisan nature. If it weren’t Obama, you could interchange the name of just about any politician in there, regardless of party or philosophy.
There are very few politicians who would have heeded your advice, Gini. And that’s what is sad. This is business as usual in DC (and in every state capital, etc), and despite the fact that this happens time and time again, they never seem to heed the lessons of the past.
This WILL happen again. As will the Rep. Anthony Weiner situation. And John Edwards. And so on.
It’s trite to say, but the system is broken. And I fear it is beyond repair. If Spin Sucks, then politics sucks even more. And this is why I would NEVER run for any office of any sort.
@jeffespo@ginidietrich There is no small irony that both Obama AND the Tea Party got elected to change Washington, and instead they have become embroiled in its worst practices.
@geoffliving@ginidietrich Both are polarizing and hopefully it is a wake-up call for BAU Washington where a good group can come in and stay for a term or just to offer an alternative to the broken system that we have.
I agree with the message is really bad. I dealt with this in California as they were sliding into financial oblivion. It was all Arnold’s fault. It still is Arnold’s fault.
1] Arnold get’s elected the state has a $98bil budget and a $14b short fall.
2] Arnold flies to NYC invites the banks that want to float debt for us to meet with him. The cost? $250k a head to sit at the table that went to his re-election fund.
3] The Economist compares debt issues with Illinois and Florida who issued less debt at better rates. Surprised?
1] Arnold says he is rich no one can buy his vote
2] Arnold lets a lobbyist pay for his hotel in Sacramento
3] Arnold allows a friend with major business interests in the state to let him use his jet to commute every day of the week.
4] Arnold claims he was saving california money.
End result? IN 6 years budget ballooned from $98bil to $150bil. Schools can’t afford supplies they have fund raisers begging for money everywhere. Infrastructure is crumbling. State almost went bankrupt a year ago. Special Interests owned Arnold’s 6 years in office.
This is why Fiorina and Whitman lost people are scared of people like Arnold now. And Obama took that whole superstar thing hook line and sinker.
If Obama was smart he would take that money from his birthday and donate it to a children’s charity.
@NancyD68@ginidietrich we need to end money in politics and make all races publicly funded. Tell them here is your pool of cash and good luck. You get no more and you can spend no more. Make them galvanize volunteers who knock on doors.
@ginidietrich ,
Good post!
While I’m not an Obama fan, I can appreciate and respect those that are, and can be objective in approach.
Your conversation words are dead-on, and I too would do the same as you – resign. Regardless of who I supported or what party I belonged to.
I’ve already received my letter that in 2014 my Social Security account will be bankrupt. I paid into that fund, and I continue to pay. I find it offensive that at such a time the President of our country would have a party with the ticket price exactly at the limit of allowable campaign contribution.
My husband is an elected official – locally – in our small Ohio town. I see things that many others don’t.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! I’d consider it a privilege to chat with you on this topic sometime. 🙂
~Keri
They are all behaving like three year olds (I’m quite in tune to that age range) when they play peek a boo or simply close their eyes and truly believe no one can see them. We do in fact see you, Mr. President, and every other elected official who chooses to believe they are either invisible or above the same rules and constraints that the very people they govern have to live within.
As a poli sci junkie and major, I love this post and I also wonder where the heck the communication/PR team is in this mix and if they have in fact offered advice, only to have it so blatantly ignored.
I’ve participated locally in appointed boards and have been asked more than once to run for office. I’ve declined, primarily because I find it more and more difficult to believe (regardless of level of office) that even if you don’t walk in step with the system, eventually, the system will step on you and by default or through the seduction of power, you will succumb. I don’t want to risk that.
@connectyou@ginidietrich Keri, once you either hold office, or are intimately familiar with it as you are, you do see things many others don’t. I have worked on numerous campaigns as the manager and the communications ‘girl’ and am always amazed at what really occurs behind the scenes.
Like you, I find that dollar amount for the party offensive. Well said.
The Tea Party is polarizing because they are finally standing up to what is wrong in Washington. The Beltway insiders don’t like it and all the spin in D.C. is that they are doing us harm. Spin Sucks! Just sayin’. @geoffliving
@KenMueller Sad, but true, Ken. It will happen again. How did we get so off track? The system is indeed broken and while I’d like to think it’s not beyond repair, don’t have a clue how it can be “fixed.”
@EricaAllison Well, in all reality, the solution is…wait for it….”change”. And we tried that last time. And we got…change..: we need new blood in Washington. Not just a little; a lot. And while I’m sure that most political newbies go in with great ideas and a true desire to make change, the system quickly takes hold and political survival hinges on going with the status quo. So you may go in with great ideals, but you get corrupted quickly.
And this is why I would never vote for @ginidietrich if she ever ran for office. If we think she’s unbearable now, just think if she was President! (actually, i like her too much to see her become one of them, but don’t tell her I said that)
@EricaAllison Well, in all reality, the solution is…wait for it….”change”. And we tried that last time. And we got…change..: we need new blood in Washington. Not just a little; a lot. And while I’m sure that most political newbies go in with great ideas and a true desire to make change, the system quickly takes hold and political survival hinges on going with the status quo. So you may go in with great ideals, but you get corrupted quickly.
And this is why I would never vote for @ginidietrich if she ever ran for office. If we think she’s unbearable now, just think if she was President! (actually, i like her too much to see her become one of them, but don’t tell her I said that)
@jgangwish@geofflivingjeff esposito Now, now. I don’t want this to be a political discussion. I want it to be about leadership and communication.
@jgangwish@geofflivingjeff esposito Now, now. I don’t want this to be a political discussion. I want it to be about leadership and communication.
@jgangwish@geofflivingjeff esposito Now, now. I don’t want this to be a political discussion. I want it to be about leadership and communication.
@NancyD68 I agree canceling it and having an intimiate party is exactly what he should have done, from a leadership perspective. And YES! I was so miffed that night because they were letting people get on Lakeshore Drive, but you couldn’t get off. It took me an hour and 40 minutes to drive five miles.
@geofflivingjeff esposito Okay, okay. I will stand down. 🙂 Appreciated your bi-partisan comments!
@Nic_Cartwright It’s easy for me to sit here and watch it all from the outside and know what I would say, if invited to say it. But I’m not sitting in those meetings and I don’t know what the bigger picture is. But what I do know is having a party that lavish the same week we nearly hit the debt ceiling is bad, bad leadership.
@ginidietrich@jgangwish@geofflivingjeff esposito At the end of the day Washington is bad at communications. And if you want us to start lobbying, I will print Gini for Secretary of Communications pins right away. And will deliver one to you next month.
@KenMueller And really, it could fit for any leader. I liken this (and I think I said it in a comment on @geoffliving blog) to my asking everyone on my staff to take a pay cut and then going and buying myself a yacht. What? You don’t have money because I cut your pay? Well, that’s not my problem.
@KenMueller@EricaAllison Don’t worry…I have no political aspirations.
Wait. I take that back. I have political aspirations just so Secret Service has to ride their bike with me and be embarrassed that a girl beat them every day.
@KenMueller@EricaAllison Don’t worry…I have no political aspirations.
Wait. I take that back. I have political aspirations just so Secret Service has to ride their bike with me and be embarrassed that a girl beat them every day.
@jeffespo@jgangwish@geoffliving LOL! Yes, I’d like one next month!
@jeffespo@jgangwish@geoffliving LOL! Yes, I’d like one next month!
@ginidietrich@EricaAllison Do we really want to see burly SS guys in spandex???
@ginidietrich@EricaAllison Do we really want to see burly SS guys in spandex???
@ginidietrich@geoffliving Definitely. I worked at a NYC nonprofit for 13 years where we were on pay freezes for quite a few of those years. But that didn’t happen at the top, because goodness knows, the President of the organization has to be compensated for all the good he is doing! (like…not raising enough money??) He continued purchasing his handmade Italian suits, being driven to work in a limo, etc. .Needless to say, morale in that place was always very low.
Wait. You have a yacht?
@HowieSPM OK. So nancy davis said the same thing. So let me ask you this. If you have a friend running for office and you are rich and you donate to your own charities all the time. If you attend his birthday party, donating money to his re-election campaign and, instead, he turns around and donates that money, how does that make you feel? Because, trust me, he’s coming back to you and asking for another $35,800 later for his campaign. I don’t think that’s the right answer. I think the right answer is canceling the party, making it known that you canceled the party, and inviting the media to shoot photos and videos of you having beer and hot dogs with your close friends and family.
@EricaAllison@KenMueller the problem is congress would have to vote on any reforms to their way of life. the likelihood of that happening is less than zero, even though it’s exactly what they need to do. removing the financial influences of special interests and re-election BS are core to change here, and they’ve actually made it EASIER to contribute now, not harder.
@KenMueller I said “liken.” (no, not yet)
@rustyspeidel@EricaAllison@KenMueller Um, communication and leadership, please (cough, cough).
@ginidietrich@KenMueller as opposed to lichen.
@connectyou My husband, until last year, ran campaigns. So, like you, I see things many people don’t see. And sometimes I will actually say, at a dinner party or fundraiser, “why can’t you do it this way?” Needless to say, I’m not very popular and I don’t tend to go to many of those events. But, let’s take politics out of it. This could be any leader, right?
@rustyspeidel@ginidietrich ah…just like the old phrase: A rolling Gini gathers no lichen
@EricaAllison It’s hard to tell if a) they aren’t smart enough to offer this kind of advice, b) they’re providing it but no one is listening, c) they’re too intimidated to say anything, or d) there is a larger play here that we don’t know about.
I don’t see you as a politician. I’ll give you my view on them sometime…verbally. 🙂
@ginidietrich@KenMueller@EricaAllison I would TOTALLY knock on doors to see that happen.
What would I have advised him to do? Go to a suburban ChuckECheese and found kids who he shared a birthday with. Then play a round of Skee-Ball with ’em. Talk to the gathered reporters about the next generation and/or what life was life in America when he was 10.
I think he feels the show must go on. In his case the campaign is the show and it needs funding. There will always be something, the debt, unemployment, a crazy shooter who kills a bunch of innocent people, homeless people, so when is a good time?
Will things really settle down in a few months?
When was the last time small businesses had cash to throw at 40K plates dinner parties? He isn’t talking to them he is looking at the fat cats he bailed out and saying ‘payback time’.
@ginidietrich@EricaAllison “I’ll give you my view on them sometime…verbally. :)”
Now there is a conversation I would enjoy to be a part of, privately of course! Hah. 🙂
So, this is a topic I need to be careful getting into because it is one of those that can through me into endless rants that result in my throwing stuff across my office…but…
I started my career in politics working in fundraising and communications, so I’ve seen all sides of the spectrum on this one. The issue you bring up here is a common one and really comes full circle as to many of the problems our country is facing. Our politicians and a good deal of their top advisors (and the longer they are in office, the worse it becomes) are not connected with the average citizen. They know the ‘stats’, but those ‘stats’ don’t resonate with them emotionally because they live in a very separate and different world. The average american’s voice is one that is quickly drowned out by the donors voice, especially when they start feeling desperate (which Obama and his staff is probably in that mode at this point) to retain power.
As much as we don’t want to recognize it (because it spits in the face of what a democracy actually is suppose to be) money buys power in Washington and keeping donors happy is far more important to everyone involved than keeping American’s happy.
This is partially their fault and partially ours (as average citizens) neither of us are living up to our side of the deal in a true functioning democracy. American’s are no where near educated enough on the actual state of affairs in the country, most (of course not all) are what I call ‘lazy voters’ whose opinons are made based on media sound bites, ambiguous promises and motivational monologues that give a warm fuzzy feeling and little substance. The average voting public can be swayed by many things and don’t often pay attention to the details. The donor however does….and the donor will spread your message to the masses and fight in your camp (in multiple ways) when the shit hits the fan and it actually ‘counts’, plus the donor will fund your campaign and allow you to suffocate the masses with useless messages that sound nice……thus the focus is and always will be the donor.
And I’ll stop, because I could go on forever…but good article and points.
@hackmanj@ginidietrich You and me both, Joe! 🙂
@ginidietrich@connectyou It could be any leader – and is any leader. Enron, anyone? Bringing it back to lessons in leadership, it applies all over again. Do we insulate our business leaders? Put them on pedestals to the point that they become untouchable or too out of reach to hear the real advice that should be heeded? Or, do we surround them with yes people because, well, those people need a job, too, right?
It’s a sad state of affairs.
@ginidietrich@rustyspeidel@KenMueller Ah yes, the topic! You’ve got your hands full today, Gini!
@ginidietrich@KenMueller@geoffliving EXACTLY!!
@wabbitoid That’s AWESOME!
@wabbitoid
LOL. That would’ve gotten some major media coverage and probably would’ve locked up the 2012 election, especially if he just showed up unannounced and there were a few hours of random tweets and mobile photos from Chuck E Cheese guests and staff. Imagine the media frenzy as the WH press corps tried to figure out where the hell Obama was and why they weren’t notified.
Exit question: Was Obama actually living in the US when he was 10?
I have to agree with John and Laura on this one. This story is less about PR/Communications and heeding good advice and more about the unbelievable amount of money and resources that it takes to win a Presidential election in modern times, truly a reflection of how our democracy has evolved, where the amount of money that a candidate raises often trumps the validity of their platform. Why do you think Trump wanted to run in the first place?
If you ask me, considering the prowess of Dan Pfeiffer and his reputation in the industry, my opinion is that this was thoroughly reviewed, debated and discussed before deciding to move forward. What’s sad is that as John points out, “the campaign is the show and the show must go on.” Modern elections require candidates to start raising money earlier and earlier, and more and more often. If you do not have millions and millions of dollars in the coffers leading into the race, you are sunk and might as well not run. This requires often throwing good sense and judgement to the wind and not following the true parameters of a responsible PR strategy to be the beacon of your actions. In my opinion, the campaign probably weighed into account the fact that most ordinary Americans (Spins Sucks community excluded of course) would probably not know about this fundraiser and the event would not factor into their decisions on who to vote for next year (all the more reason to subscribe to the Spin Sucks blog and become more aware of the reality of life).
I think it’s sad, but truly a reality that should wake us all up to how the political machine is broken and needs to be rebuilt.
@ginidietrich@HowieSPMnancy davis I’m with Gini on this one. Obama raised that money fair and square, he just made a spectacle out of the opulence of it all. Donating that money elsewhere will anger those that chose to donate it to him. It was their money and they made an informed decision on how to donate it. What donating again WON’T do is erase the original problem. Rather, it’ll give the story another spin in the media cycle, albeit with a positive twist. But at that point, it’s lipstick on a pig.
@ginidietrich@HowieSPMnancy davis I’m with Gini on this one. Obama raised that money fair and square, he just made a spectacle out of the opulence of it all. Donating that money elsewhere will anger those that chose to donate it to him. It was their money and they made an informed decision on how to donate it. What donating again WON’T do is erase the original problem. Rather, it’ll give the story another spin in the media cycle, albeit with a positive twist. But at that point, it’s lipstick on a pig.
Gini just tiptoed through a mine field and made it to the other side. Excellent work!
@ginidietrich And presumably you wouldn’t have time to blog, which would totally suck. So forget it … we want to keep you in the private sector.
@PenPointer Oh yeah. That would totally suck. Please keep me here!
@John_Trader1 Very much agree! During my time, I also watched many amazing politicians leave the scene vs. pursuing higher officer or continuing for subsequent terms simply because they were sick of the crap. They actually wanted to get something done in Washington, vs. engage in an everlasting campaign. Sadly the system just doesn’t work that way.
We complain that there is a lack of quality people in office, but we continue to vote and support a system the encourages those same people to remain. I’m sure our TJ, GW, JA and the rest of the crew are rolling in their graves to look at one both the elected and the electors have become!
@John_Trader1 Very much agree! During my time, I also watched many amazing politicians leave the scene vs. pursuing higher officer or continuing for subsequent terms simply because they were sick of the crap. They actually wanted to get something done in Washington, vs. engage in an everlasting campaign. Sadly the system just doesn’t work that way.
We complain that there is a lack of quality people in office, but we continue to vote and support a system the encourages those same people to remain. I’m sure our TJ, GW, JA and the rest of the crew are rolling in their graves to look at one both the elected and the electors have become!
@LauraPetrolino Great point about average citizens not living up to our side of the deal. I know I could do a lot more to keep informed and become active around these issues. I have often thought our leaders can only be as good as the people they lead. Excellent response and thanks @ginidietrich ginidietrich for a thought-provoking article.
@LauraPetrolino Great point about average citizens not living up to our side of the deal. I know I could do a lot more to keep informed and become active around these issues. I have often thought our leaders can only be as good as the people they lead. Excellent response and thanks @ginidietrich ginidietrich for a thought-provoking article.
If you could see my thoughts you would see a picture of me covered in gasoline and dancing in the middle of a huge bonfire trying not to get burned.
In between my two stepping through and around the flames I’d try to calmly explain that it infuriates me how many people do not understand basic civics as well as how many don’t vote.
I’d rant about the shameful way that our politicians behave. I am not talking about morals because frankly I don’t care who they sleep with or who is serviced by whom provided that they get the job done.
But the need to stop working halfway through their term to begin working on the next election is shameful. The need to create a huge war chest so that you have a real chance to win is shameful.
The influence of soft money is shameful.
All that aside the disconnect between the politicians and the people is terrible. It is hard to truly understand/appreciate the challenges that ordinary people face when you don’t face them.
If you aren’t forced to deal with long lines at the security stations at airports you don’t quite get it. If you don’t worry about how to pay for healthcare and private school tuition you don’t really feel the pain.
When you don’t have to worry how to spin the real reason you are moving to your children you don’t get it.
And more importantly when there is no real fear of being punished for your actions you don’t get it. Back in the real world people can’t tell their employers/bosses/customers that they aren’t getting work done because they can’t get along. They don’t do it because they know that they will be fired.
But congress isn’t really worried about being fired. There is no collective fear of the consequences of their actions nor concern about an immediate response to their posturing and pandering.
So we are faced with a much greater challenge in how to not just demand accountability but ensure that it happens.
@EricaAllison@hackmanj I’ll share with you too, Joe!
@wabbitoid I freaking love that! Erik for hire!
@wabbitoid I freaking love that! Erik for hire!
@fitzternet I’m not sure you just made it through the minefield with your exit question! LOL!
@fitzternet I’m not sure you just made it through the minefield with your exit question! LOL!
@John Falchetto I suppose you’re right….and that’s likely the bigger picture I’m missing because I’m so emotional about it all. But the fat cats he bailed out don’t elect him next year. We do. And this whole perception has left a really bad taste in my mouth.
@Collectual@LauraPetrolino Great points on all accounts. Mr. D has worked campaigns for most of his career, so I also see a side most don’t see. And I agree most of us are lazy voters. We vote a party or on emotion. Most don’t even vote on issues. But this isn’t a political discussion. It’s really about leadership. And I think the leadership is wonky.
@John_Trader1 BUT. This is a communication and leadership blog so I want to keep politics out of it and discuss what we would have done differently if we were advising the President, based on what we know (the bullet points I wrote).
@fitzternet Oh the day is only half finished!
@fitzternet Oh the day is only half finished!
@TheJackB I agree, but I really want to keep politics out of this discussion. We can leave that to The Daily Kos and Huffington Post and others. What I really want to talk about is the leadership (or lack thereof) in our country.
@TheJackB I agree, but I really want to keep politics out of this discussion. We can leave that to The Daily Kos and Huffington Post and others. What I really want to talk about is the leadership (or lack thereof) in our country.
@ginidietrich Oh, no. @wabbitoid ‘s post made me curious. If I remember correctly, Obama moved to the US around age 10. Or maybe it was 12. Honest question and I’m honestly too lazy to look it up.
@ginidietrich Finally got un-lazy and looked it up. He was exactly 10. Bingo!
“Obama’s mother remarried a man from Indonesia who worked in the oil industry, and when Obama was six they moved there. The family lived near the capital of Jakarta, where his half-sister Maya was born. At the age of ten, Obama returned to Hawaii and lived with his maternal grandparents; later his mother and sister returned as well.” – NotableBiographies.com
@ginidietrich I was living in Chicago during the time of Obama’s election and it was exciting times. I’m disappointed in the leadership of both the White House and Congress. I’m an Independent but I get a lot of emails from the Democrats asking for contributions. I replied to one email that I was unemployed, but if I was employed I wouldn’t contribute because the email was bashing the Republicans while at the same time asking for money. Furthermore, the email was whiny, unprofessional and unbecoming to the dignity of a President. I’m now a firm believer in term limits for all elected officials and in a compensation policy that is based on merit, not on hot air and grandiosity, The leadership in all three branches of the government are an embarrassment to the American people and a joke to the rest of the world.
@ginidietrich Thanks Gini, and everyone. It may seem that politics is too contentious to talk about in a forum like this, but there is an art to it that should be practiced. I think that our biggest problem is that the art is rarely practiced well anymore – left, right and center. And there’s a lot of PR in there, of course, because we are a Democratic Republic – it always has to come back to the people and how you relate to them.
To diverge into the raw politics of it for a sentence, Obama made two mistakes – he gave in to the Bush Tax Cut Extension too easily, disconnecting him with the Left, and he did not back the Simpson-Bowles framework, ceding the middle ground. Both of those would require communicating his position, first with his base that needs energizing and the second with the general public. They are both PR moves at their heart as much as policy positions.
I think your industry has to be concerned when highly visible PR mis-steps like this have such a big influence on our politics and our economy. People are learning rather capricious relations with the public as a norm at a level that should be the most connected with people. I don’t think businesses can see the value in the kind of leadership necessary when it isn’t practiced well at times it damned well has to be.
“Lack thereof” is about right. It astounds me that the president of the United States would come out on public TV and try to scare senior citizens by saying they wouldn’t get their social security checks when that shouldn’t even be an option on the table. There’s plenty of other crazy things the government spends money on that could be cut. He should be going out there and trying to instill some confidence in the people instead of trying to scare them.
I think that’s the problem with have “professional” politicians. They’re politicians, not leaders. @ginidietrich @TheJackB
@wabbitoid I agree with @EricaAllison Erik, so true! Do the right thing!
When I hear about troops concerned about paychecks not being there for their families while they are deployed. (we all know this is my sore spot) and government employees and seniors worried about not having a paycheck, that’s a concern.
When we our country’s leader is enjoying himself at the expense of not only contributors, but tax payers, that’s a major lacking in responsible leadership and quite frankly, integrity for me. (tax payers pay for his travel, protection, local police etc.)
Or perhaps he thought if he didn’t have the party now, in a few months no one would come 🙂
Kidding aside (was that ‘kidding’ ?) I think your analysis and conclusions are spot on. His problem is that the election is going to be especially tough because of the economy, so what fund-raising method is the right one to use. Clearly no-fund-raising is probably not an option.
It seems to me that the best option would be to find a fund-raising idea that could be linked to raising awareness for the challenges-to and sacrifices-being-made-by individual families and small businesses in these tough times. If you could find a fund-raising idea that actually reinforced Obama’s alignment with those concerns – that would be a real PR coup.
Ah – another tenuously-related idea — security professionals perform audits on systems by staging mock hacking attacks. PR professionals should offer a similar service — showing how they (if they were the opposition) would “spin” what the client is proposing to do 😉
@ginidietrich@HowieSPMnancy davis I like that. Doesn’t solve his election funding problem but I still like it – great photo op.
@ginidietrich@HowieSPMnancy davis I like that. Doesn’t solve his election funding problem but I still like it – great photo op.
The President has to raise at least a billion dollars for his re-elect and his campaign saw his birthday as a good way to help them out with this necessary goal. Honestly, this decision was probably not even his to make, which is hard for people to grasp.
The President has to raise at least a billion dollars for his re-elect and his campaign saw his birthday as a good way to help them out with this necessary goal. Honestly, this decision was probably not even his to make, which is hard for people to grasp.
@EugeneFarber It’s disappointing. Why is it so hard to ask for a LEADER?
@EugeneFarber It’s disappointing. Why is it so hard to ask for a LEADER?
@KenMueller@rustyspeidel@ginidietrich But lots of ‘likes’… unless she’s rolling across a mine field… in spiked heels (oh – irrelevant, sorry. But such an entertaining image.)
@KenMueller@rustyspeidel@ginidietrich But lots of ‘likes’… unless she’s rolling across a mine field… in spiked heels (oh – irrelevant, sorry. But such an entertaining image.)
@AdamMcGinnis Sure, I get that. And that’s likely the reality. But that’s not the perception. The perception is it’s a really poor leadership decision. And, if we aren’t held accountable for the decisions under our regime, as leaders, who is?
@AdamMcGinnis Sure, I get that. And that’s likely the reality. But that’s not the perception. The perception is it’s a really poor leadership decision. And, if we aren’t held accountable for the decisions under our regime, as leaders, who is?
@glenn_ferrell It’s in heels, for sure!
@glenn_ferrell It’s in heels, for sure!
@fitzternet So he likely knows all about Chuck E. Cheese, then!
@glenn_ferrell LOL! You might be right. I want people to come to my party! You know, I really like that idea. I’d like to think they do that, but maybe not. Or, if they do, they certainly aren’t asking the people.
I believe there’s a point when it’s fruitless to attempt to control everyone’s perception. From a re-election standpoint, it was the *perfect* time to hold a 35K a plate dinner. After all, Obama had a still bleeding example of “THIS is what we have to stop in DC.”
I think most folks understand that we’ve turned the presidential race into a 2 year endurance rally (and I think nearly everyone agrees it shouldn’t be so). The only folks I’ve heard complaining about Obama’s dinner are pundits who far, far prefer to cast a negative light on things. It’s not like people believe that 35K goes right into Obama’s birthday fund.
I believe there’s a point when it’s fruitless to attempt to control everyone’s perception. From a re-election standpoint, it was the *perfect* time to hold a 35K a plate dinner. After all, Obama had a still bleeding example of “THIS is what we have to stop in DC.”
I think most folks understand that we’ve turned the presidential race into a 2 year endurance rally (and I think nearly everyone agrees it shouldn’t be so). The only folks I’ve heard complaining about Obama’s dinner are pundits who far, far prefer to cast a negative light on things. It’s not like people believe that 35K goes right into Obama’s birthday fund.
WOW Gini! very very powerful and well written. After reading this I am kind of angry with Obama. I was starting to like him but this made me sick to my stomach.
It’s such a strange world we live in. So much to worry and wonder about. The future leadership scares me. I was a PoliSci major in college and have lost hope in political leaders.
Honestly… think we need to say to hell with Politicians and vote for an Accountant in 2012…whaddaya think about that? cc @ginidietrich
WOW Gini! very very powerful and well written. After reading this I am kind of angry with Obama. I was starting to like him but this made me sick to my stomach.
It’s such a strange world we live in. So much to worry and wonder about. The future leadership scares me. I was a PoliSci major in college and have lost hope in political leaders.
Honestly… think we need to say to hell with Politicians and vote for an Accountant in 2012…whaddaya think about that? cc @ginidietrich
WOW Gini! very very powerful and well written. After reading this I am kind of angry with Obama. I was starting to like him but this made me sick to my stomach.
It’s such a strange world we live in. So much to worry and wonder about. The future leadership scares me. I was a PoliSci major in college and have lost hope in political leaders.
Honestly… think we need to say to hell with Politicians and vote for an Accountant in 2012…whaddaya think about that? cc @ginidietrich
WOW Gini! very very powerful and well written. After reading this I am kind of angry with Obama. I was starting to like him but this made me sick to my stomach.
It’s such a strange world we live in. So much to worry and wonder about. The future leadership scares me. I was a PoliSci major in college and have lost hope in political leaders.
Honestly… think we need to say to hell with Politicians and vote for an Accountant in 2012…whaddaya think about that? cc @ginidietrich
WOW Gini! very very powerful and well written. After reading this I am kind of angry with Obama. I was starting to like him but this made me sick to my stomach.
It’s such a strange world we live in. So much to worry and wonder about. The future leadership scares me. I was a PoliSci major in college and have lost hope in political leaders.
Honestly… think we need to say to hell with Politicians and vote for an Accountant in 2012…whaddaya think about that? cc @ginidietrich
PS if I were president I would have had my birthday at a strip club with hot wings and cold beer…that would have been tops! (sorry Congressman Pedro took over)
Thought-provoking post for me today. I have so many thoughts but I’ll keep them to myself. And no the thoughts have nothing to do with politics or political persuasion. =)
I think the solution really is quite simple…. @ginidietrich for president!! 😉
Im sick to my stomach! I know we – most of us – are guilty of over-indulging these past few years which is one of the reasons everything is going downhill so fast, but as the rest of us tame our spending, why are some of us so above it? Well, on the bright side, if he is so rich then he will end up getting taxed the most 🙂
@c_pappas Do you think it was anymore/less than previous POTUS? I’d be curious to see the numbers
@TheBDHill No clue on that one! I honestly dont follow politics because I hate to hear about things like this.
@TheBDHill No clue on that one! I honestly dont follow politics because I hate to hear about things like this.
@c_pappas Yeah, understood. No hard info yet, but to me it sounds like the stuff around this trip: http://ow.ly/607Cl
@KarenBice I wonder if it’s a rampant thing among leaders, in general? We have BP and News Corp, of late, that showcase the same poor decision making.
@aaron.weber I don’t think the argument is over where the money goes. It’s in the perception of what his constituents (us) feel. This is a leadership issue, not a political issue. Like I said, I get that he has to raise money for his re-election. Doing it, in such a public way, the same week we hit the debt ceiling and our credit was downgraded is in poor form.
@C_Pappas Oh he won’t get the money. I don’t really care about the money (though I can’t fathom spending that much on a dinner). What I care about is the perception of the leader of our country.
@C_Pappas Oh he won’t get the money. I don’t really care about the money (though I can’t fathom spending that much on a dinner). What I care about is the perception of the leader of our country.
@rachaelseda I only want to be President so Secret Service has to ride their bikes with me!
@rachaelseda I only want to be President so Secret Service has to ride their bikes with me!
@joelfortner03 I was just lamenting to @hackmanj and danny brown , during a podcast, that I wish more people debated me in the comments here. Now’s your shot!
@JessicaNorthey Congressman! Are you still trying to get my number?
@JessicaNorthey Or a country music star?
@JessicaNorthey Or a country music star?
@JessicaNorthey Or a country music star?
@ginidietrich Fair point. Personally I thought it was a smart move, as the whole debt debacle should be reason enough we need to re-elect him.
@aaron.weber Totally agree with that…just wonder if he could have waited a month or so, for things to simmer down. Of course, your birthday doesn’t come around a month later.
Here’s an alternative scenario:
“Some people are criticizing the fact that I’m going to have a birthday celebration this week, with all the troubles in our economy. I can see their point. But let me tell you a few things. Whatever the troubles are in our economy, we are the United States of America. We are going to better the situation. We’re going to work together to rebuild the economy and the system. Some people think I shouldn’t have a party because there are people in difficulty. Let me tell you why I’m having this party. I believe that there’s work that needs to be done in the government. Changes need to be made. Naturally, I think I’m the one to make those changes. I look at my colleagues across the floor, and I don’t think they’re the ones to protect Americans and to help bring our economy around. To do that — I need money. The Republican Party will be raising every dollar it can to get me out of office. If I thought we’d do better with a republican in the White House, I’d step aside myself. I could sacrifice this party. I could walk away from it. But I may well be sacrificing what I think is the best opportunity to bring our nation out of its troubles. So I will celebrate my birthday. And I will continue celebrate the good things that America has given me, and given all of you. And once the party is over, I will be back at work, doing what needs to be done, and in a better position to do it.”
Gini,
I’m not mad at all about him having a fancy Birthday Party. Really.
I’m mad at him because it seems that he just doesn’t have any. He needs to grow some. But, it may be too late for that.
Our country is a mess. He’s never out in front of things. He’s always behind things. He doesn’t really make too many decisions. He tells others to figure it out. It’s not working.
The folks on the Right are Wrong. The rich folks they’re protecting need to step up and contribute more in the way of taxes. Not a lot more. Just a little.
And the Pres needs to be laser-focused on jobs. He’s only 2 years late on that.
The best TV news/talk show by far is on from 7Am till 9 Am. @MorningJoe is the best.
I know that Obama and his team watch it. It’s just that they won’t listen to the intelligent suggestions made there every morning. From both sides. The answers are there.
Our President seems to be in way over his head. With everything. The economy. The wars. The Republicans.
He needs to call back Congress right now. They’re on a 30 day vacation? That’s insane with what’s going on.
When he gets them back, he needs to tell them how things are going to be from now on. it’s gotta be his way or the highway. he can do it. After all, lots of them on both sides want to be re-elected…so they can keep their perks..their power.
And I really don’t care if he’s re-elected or not. I just want to be led. By a leader.
My site’s down right now, but I wrote a piece on what’s going on, too. It’s titled “Rudderless.” Maybe you can stop be and read it.
http://thefranchiseking.com/rudderless
The Franchise King®
@bobledrew You know what? If he said that, I’d be perfectly happy with it. THAT is leadership. I think he should hire both of us. We can give him opposing views and let him choose. But he’d come out a leader in both situations.
Great to hear your voice today!
@FranchiseKing So when I said this was about leadership and communication and not politics… 🙂
I want to be led, too. By a leader. Yes, we in fierce agreement on that one.
@FranchiseKing P.S. I’ll stop by as soon as the site is back up!
@ginidietrich I’ve been told that I have the perfect face for radio.
@ginidietrich Bout time we agree on something. 🙂
@ginidietrich And who doesn’t love cake!?
@monsieurjoe Thanks!
@C_Pappas Well, it was to raise money for his re-election. But still.
@FranchiseKing I really prefer to disagree with you.
@bobledrew I’m not sure that’s true, but you do have a great voice!
@aaron.weber Right?!
You’re like the female version of Jerry Maguire, which, I guess, could still be Jerry…or maybe Jerri. Anyway, I think this could have been handled differently. I would have liked to have seen a scenario much like @bobledrew ‘s example. Tell us he’s having the party and why he is having the party. Let the public know that he knows what we all might be thinking and put those concerns to rest. As you and Bob have both stated, that would have shown strong leadership. Maybe he could have made that speech AT his party and finished it by slamming a shot of Patron. Who’s going to question THAT?
The lack of leadership (combined with very poor PR and marketing!) has left me dazed and confused. When times are tough, we want someone to understand our problems and do whatever it takes to help. In the past few weeks alone, I’ve seen multiple opportunities for real leadership, but no one stood up to seize it. All of our politicians are walking a balance beam–and they’re afraid of making a big, bold move because they might not get re-elected. So they all continue to shuffle across slowly, leaving us to wonder if they even comprehend what’s really happening outside their own little world. Tragic.
@KevinVandever SHOW. ME. THE. MONEY!!!
@marianne.worley Guess what? They’re not going to be re-elected anyway. I would not be surprised if our country doesn’t just do a clean sweep of everyone.
@ginidietrich OR we could do the “whole” actor thing again 😉
@ginidietrich he’s such a pervvy pup!! love that little wiener-doodle!
Great discussion here! And once again @ginidietrich great post! I will just say this, I believe Obama’s “leadership” style – or lack thereof – his, “management” style – or lack thereof – has been the strongest factor in creating a completely dysfunctional Congress. President Obama “enables” these maelstroms and because of his style brings out the worst dys-functionality in government. Bill Clinton was hands-on, very hands-on. Obama is not, at.all. This has cost him. No question in my mind, at the end of the day, politics and fundraisers aside, political persuasion aside – election or re-election campaigns aside – leave all that out of it for now and what do you have? A president who can’t manage his team, a leader who is indecisive – show me any entity, company, organization, or corporation, let alone a country, that will succeed with those odds.
@ginidietrich Site’s back Up- http://thefranchiseking.com/rudderless
It’s easy to ask. It’s hard to get one :). All the leaders are staying out of politics and trying to have a real effect on the world.@ginidietrich
Let me clarify….real *positive* effect @ginidietrich
Let me clarify….real *positive* effect @ginidietrich
@debmorello@ginidietrich Deb, I couldn’t disagree with you more. As a politician Barack Obama already beat all other politicians and will stay the #1 politician until a women is elected President and only then does the discussion even start. As a leader he constantly has both edges screaming at him for never ever doing enough. When both fringes are screaming he most likely is governing from the middle. As an achiever he has personally disappointed me with almost every piece of major legislation for not being enough of a liberal. As an objective observer, he is a master. He got HCR passed, 1st brought up by President Truman, I believe. When he gave in to the Bush tax cuts in December and I would have torn out my hair if I had any. Immediately after that bill passed he got SALT through, DADT repealed and 1 other major piece. 1 for 3 while the wolves howl is pretty good. This debt ceiling raise capitulation is a poop sandwich for all. He mentioned SS, Medicare and Medicaid and I rent my garments. In the end, the New Deal stayed intact and defense was cut (small but a start). If the ensuing circle jerk super committee fails to reach a plan (any bets?) the cuts will be deep. But again defense gets nicked and the New Deal remains intact and the Bush tax cuts expire. Check, Checkmate.
I don’t go for this playing chess while all other are playing checkers garbage. Given the current climate, he’s been masterful, evidenced by what he gets and all call him weak.
Sorry for going wonkie on you and posting instead of commenting. Tune in tomorrow when I go after the whores at S & P.
@lizscherer good morning Liz
@lizscherer good morning Liz
@PreppyDude Morning vhub…xo
You just love stepping in the controversial don’t you @ginidietrich 🙂
It’s an amazing point and it’s depressing. Or better yet, take all those donations and put it towards the nations debt. Donate it to many of the programs that got cut. Not towards another horrible election that will just take us farther away from the one thing our nation needs… solutions.
@barryrsilver@ginidietrich
Barry, I will applaud anyone going after the rating agencies. Please tell me you have seen “Inside Job”… with as many times as I have a debate or discussion about the economy – particularly with people who choose to believe that our current state of affairs is because of this administration, that everything crashed the minute Obama stepped into the White House – I refer to the Oscar-winning documentary and I get no response. It seems no one has seen it. Anyone needing an explainer,or a good history lesson in U.S. economic policy history should see this film. The name of the film is appropriate – it aptly explains the chronology of policies, changing of policies, legislation, Supreme Court rulings, deregulation, Federal Reserve Bank decisions … since Reagan. Including, how the rating agencies gave over-inflated ratings to those infamous “mortgage-backed” securities – and when the rating agencies were forced to downgrade the zillions of dollars of ‘crap securities’ so fell the house of cards… hence “inside job” – this was a “bi-partisan” effort for years of unfettered, unchecked, greed (in the name of capitalism) dating back to the Savings + Loans crisis. So, certainly the country and the world, was riding high on the hog. And most everyone in the country believes they were doing “so well” in those times.
Now, as for President Obama’s leadership style … I stand by what I said. I do not believe he is “weak”, but I do not believe his style worked in the debt bill debate, for sure.
I look forward to your S+P rant 😉
@barryrsilver@ginidietrich I don’t know if you have seen Maureen Dowd’s killer Op-Ed it’s spot on and heartbreaking, and sadly expresses exactly where we are: Op-Ed by Maureen Dowd. “Withholder in Chief”- NYTimes.com http://nyti.ms/qQkb5t
@barryrsilver@ginidietrich I don’t know if you have seen Maureen Dowd’s killer Op-Ed it’s spot on and heartbreaking, and sadly expresses exactly where we are: Op-Ed by Maureen Dowd. “Withholder in Chief”- NYTimes.com http://nyti.ms/qQkb5t
@ginidietrich
Timing and Perception Are Everything…You’d Think That *Someone* in His Team Said *Something*…!
@ginidietrich
Timing and Perception Are Everything…You’d Think That *Someone* in His Team Said *Something*…!
I Have to Say That This Was Certainly an ‘Error in Judgement’ (and That’s Certainly Putting It Lightly). I’m Just Disappointed That What Could’ve Been a Celebration Turned Into a Political Affair.
Regardless of Your Party Affiliation, It’s Just Not Smart.
I Was Actually Talking About ‘ROI’ and ‘Perceived ROI’ With a Colleague – You Have to Make Sure That Your Audience’s Perception of Something Great is Tangible and/or Something That They Can Brag About. Otherwise, You’re Just Telling People That What They’re Getting is ‘Great’ or of Value.
That’s Like Being in School Where People Told You What to Think and How. We’re Adults Now and We Have to *Believe* That What We’re Getting is of Value.
@fredcatona hi Fred! Great read, sad state of affairs, huh? @ginidietrich
[…] Leadership Lessons in Washington – Since I just returned from D.C., I thought it only fitting to share Gini Dietrich’s compelling post about President Obama’s choice to have an expensive fundraising dinner for his 50th birthday. I’m not one to talk about politics here, and this post really isn’t about that. Instead, Gini used this post to talk about leadership and communication. It’s great read and the comments are fantastic too. […]
I completely agree @debmorello . When President Obama first took office, a vast majority of Americans truly hoped that he would bring a new tone to Washington (that was his promise). But, beginning with the healthcare bill, he allowed Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid to control the bill. He did not lead the debate. We saw the same thing last week with the debt ceiling debate. Every time there is a big issue he shrinks from leadership role.
@ginidietrich@marianne.worley We definitely need a clean sweep. I don’t understand why we don’t demand term limits. It’s time to end the career politician.
@ginidietrich@marianne.worley We definitely need a clean sweep. I don’t understand why we don’t demand term limits. It’s time to end the career politician.
@barryrsilver@debmorello And here I wanted this to be not about politics, but about leadership and communication.
From a leadership perspective, I lead very hands off. Sometimes it costs me because people need direction. That’s a weakness of mine. But I also would not want to work for someone who was hands-on so I fight trying to stay in the middle.
I don’t know which is the right way…is it, like Barry said, somewhere in the middle so both sides are screaming at you?
@MSchechter I really thought about whether or not to write this and I just couldn’t get it out of my brain. So yeah, I like stepping in the controversial if I believe really strongly in one side of the argument. And, I think the reason it bothers me so much is because we’re so far in debt and had to RAISE the ceiling. Yet money is abundant. Just not in the bottom 99 percent of the U.S.
@MSchechter I really thought about whether or not to write this and I just couldn’t get it out of my brain. So yeah, I like stepping in the controversial if I believe really strongly in one side of the argument. And, I think the reason it bothers me so much is because we’re so far in debt and had to RAISE the ceiling. Yet money is abundant. Just not in the bottom 99 percent of the U.S.
@Narciso17 Because, after all, perception is reality.
@Narciso17 Because, after all, perception is reality.
@ginidietrich@barryrsilver Thanks Gini! Hard to stay away from politics – as hard as I tried 🙂 I would tend to agree with the ‘somewhere in the middle’ however I don’t believe his leadership style has been in the middle. I should clarify, when I say ‘hands on’ I don’t mean micro-managing. I agree with you on that point, I’ve had both micro-managing and very hands off. I have had one excellent manager in 20 plus years. He was a natural – I don’t think instinct can be taught, He was engaged – he communicated well with ‘everyone’ and never micro-managed. His style had a way of inspiring everyone – no matter what their position, or what level. So, yes, he’s managed to get both sides screaming at him… and at each other, as a result it seems (at least to me) it has only brought out the worst of partisanship.
@ginidietrich@debmorello Deb, My apologies last few days been crzy, hoping to get to MD this wknd, not ignoring you.
G- Sorry. I too try to stay away from politics in this arena. I have an open political agenda and try and keep said agenda in the proper forums. As for Obama leadership, it’s hard to evaluate because it’s like a glacier, 90% below the surface (same for all presidents). As for his communications, he’s trying to play the rational middle which is most unappealing. Mr. Rogers also lost his mass appeal past the age of 6. I’m not sure why he Obama doesn’t have Jr. officers doing his heavy lifting. As for you, I don’t think digital media/pr (and the other things you do I don’t know about) can’t be successfully run under tight reins. It happens too quickly. Press 1 wrong button and you wind up resigning from Congress (Politics, sorry). As I’m sure your figured out, you can’t teach people to see completely with your eyes. You must delegate to those whose vision you are willing to accept.
@ginidietrich I actually thought it was fairly measured as far as political posts go. Couldn’t help but tease you about it 🙂
Money is abundant, unfortunately our willingness to take from those who have it in abundance isn’t…
Come on guys – the system is broken. Redistricting at the state level creates a culture that encourages creating ‘safe seats’ which really means you end up with fringe elements controlling both parties via the districts they set up. And since no one really likes controversy what happens when the politician goes home? They hear more of the same instead of a credible, balanced message. Television has only made it worse. What happened to the good old days of Tip O’Neil drinking with Ronald Reagan (I was encouraged to see that Scott Brown is training for a triathlon with John Kerry). Until either voter turn out improves OR we fix the redistricting system we will continue to have this issue.
@Adam Boatsman Cough, leadership lessons, cough.
@ginidietrich Dietrich, cough, can’t expect leadership from a system that isn’t capable of producing leaders, cough. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gerrymandering, cough. I’m sure at some point you told me not to discuss politics, D’oh! Time to settle down w/a nice beer and get my opinions yelled at me by Hannity and Olberman!