Obama Makes Gains Among Workers Hurt By Bush Economics

By Mort Kondracke A new book designed to show Republicans how to win the working-class vote actually makes a strong case that Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) will carry it. Much-discussed and deservedly praised, "Grand New Party" by Ross Douthat and Reihan Salam paints a grim picture of working-class prospects, both economically and socially, under prevailing circumstances. Instead of being a society where anybody can "make it," Douthat and Salam describe the United States as increasingly becoming an "inherited meritocracy" where the wealthy and well-educated get more so and those without education and skills get left behind and face a life of stress and insecurity. They don't say so directly, but I would: What Obama is offering -- and eloquently -- is hope for a better deal, while Republicans are offering more of the same. And,... [read full story]