October 26, 2011
By Jay Townsend

An Example of how One Candidate Set the Agenda.

Herman Cain was not the first of the Presidential crop to float the idea of a flat tax or to suggest a complete overhaul of the tax code. Gingrich and Huntsman have also proposed a flatter tax and tax code reform.

Cain however, was the first to shoot to the top of the polls after he did so, where he has remained for nearly three weeks.
Cain’s gain came at Perry’s expense, who saw his numbers drop from the high 20’s in September to the low teens, according to the Rasmussen poll. It is no surprise therefore, that Governor Rick Perry floated his own flat tax proposal yesterday. It remains to be seen whether Romney will join the flat tax crowd.

Was Perry responding to Cain? Absolutely. He is also chasing an idea that is gaining traction, for that Cain deserves a lot of credit.

This is the way campaigns are supposed to work. Candidates actually debating ideas and substantive policy proposals. Credit Herman for setting the agenda and altering the dialogue.
And a lesson in this for all those who are running for public office. Ideas matter. A good one will alter the terms of the debate. And under the right circumstances, you might find yourself setting the agenda.
http://jaytownsend.com/campaign-and-communication-tips/an-example-of-how-one-candidate-set-the-agenda/