The biggest surprise in New Jersey is the Governor’s commitment to honor his campaign commitments to shrink the size of state government, cut spending and taxes, and get the state’s finances back on track. We know that campaigns are only meant to get people elected – in truth, is there such a thing as an honest, authentic politician?

But Governor Christie asserts he is not a politician – his job is to govern, and no one needs to wonder what he thinks – he’ll tell them. If Christie stays the course, he will create a new paradigm of political leadership, accentuating the leader and minimizing the political. So far, he’s standing firm. Perhaps the Governor can transform a state that’s in serious financial trouble.

Take a look at Christie’s response to a liberal reporter in last week’s press conference.

If the product is flawed, what can we say about the leadership that produced it?

When selling a successful idea, the most capable marketers rarely market the facts, says marketing guru Seth Godin. They present stories that match the worldview of the people in their audience. 

Elected officials often take the same approach, using stories and interesting twists to hide the facts, especially when facts are controversial.

Although the majority of Americans are strongly against passing the health care bill, David Axelrod, the President’s closest advisor, said it would be popular once people learned more about it.  Continue reading…