The current governor of Massachusetts says Americans “crave a clarity” about the country’s direction.
Governor Deval Patrick, a Democrat, says as President Obama outlines goals for a second term, Obama also needs to tout milestones like the resurrection of the U.S. auto industry and the health care reform law.
“The record is long and it’s impressive and it’s barely told and, frankly, the president needs to talk more about that record,” Patrick says.
Patrick is in Des Moines tonight, serving as the keynote speaker at an Iowa Democratic Party banquet. He will also speak at the Iowa Democratic Party’s state convention on Saturday. During an interview this evening with Radio Iowa, Patrick suggested Americans are willing to be patient with the president.
“I think what we crave as citizens is a clarity about the direction we’re headed in,” Patrick said. “I know campaigns have to talk about the contrast and what’s wrong with the other side and all that stuff, but what’s beautiful about the president and what I think what we’re going to hear more from his own lips is what’s right about us and where we’re going.”
The president needs to talk about the ultimate “destination” for the country in positive terms, according to Patrick.
“You know, we’re a very optimistic nation,” Patrick said. “Fascinating to me how much of our optimism the hard right seems determined to bleach out of the country.”
Patrick declared, “I love Iowa,” during his 10-minute interview with Radio Iowa — but Patrick also said he has no interest in running for president himself. Patrick does not plan to seek a third term as governor of Massachusetts.
“I want to get back in the private sector,” he said, “…and I miss the private sector, especially on pay day.”