Framing the Future

Our country is in trouble. All three branches of federal government are controlled by conservative ideologues who would have been considered extremists in any prior decade. As these ideologues have violated our Constitution and revoked, gutted or de-funded bedrock New Deal and Great Society programs, the American Dream has slipped beyond the grasp of millions of our fellow citizens. The good news is that polls consistently show that a plurality of Americans actually prefer progressive positions. George Lakoff and other analysts have argued persuasively that, in order to reclaim America for all Americans, progressives-both Democrat and Republican-must put forth our moral vision, celebrate our values and principles, and shout them out loud. But which values? And how do we communicate them? Consultant and political strategist Bernie Horn argues that the task is easier than it sounds. His book proposes a new philosophy of progressivism that articulates what we really stand for. He offers readers an original, field-tested framework of values-freedom, opportunity, security-that distinguishes progressive positions from their conservative counterparts. And he offers practical suggestions-instructions on how and when to express these values. Progressives need to get on message as a movement. With a clearer understanding of our own philosophy, better message framing, and a whole lot more political organizing, we can win this fight. With some hard work, we can persuade our federal, state, and local governments to represent and defend the interests of all. And the promise of America-our common vision for a nation of peace and justice-will be once again within reach for all.