SOMETHING FOR THE OPPOSITION

In the latest issue of the Economist one can read about why they think the Republicans were so successful in the American elections - not just the presidential election but also in the elections for Congress.

Rather than, as many Democrats wants to believe, winning by inducing fear among the citizens, the Republicans won by speaking optimistically about the future - both in America and in the world. When Mr Kerry spoke about saving the bankruptcy bound Social Security system Mr Bush talked about creating a new ownership society. When Mr Kerry talks about getting the troops back home as fast as possible Mr Bush talks about spreading democracy to eradicate the roots of terrorism.

I think the Swedish opposition has a lot to learn from this. Instead of focusing on all the problems with the ever ruling Social Democrats they should start to paint optimistic pictures of how they want to change this country. Instead of talking about percentage adjustments of the tax code they should talk of creating a freer society where it's easier to start a business and where it pays off to work. Mr Reinfeldt, the new Conservative leader, has done a little in this direction, but it's far from enough. The Republican success in the United States shows that it is through optimism and with a mind set on the future that one win elections. Hopefully the Swedish opposition will realise that.

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