The Hot, Hot, Hot Candidate

Des Moines

Howard Dean is unveiling his early-childhood agenda before a dozen workers in the child-development center at the Des Moines Area Community College. The workers—mostly very sensible-looking older women—sit at tables facing Dean, sporting bright yellow “Child Advocate” stickers and earnestly taking notes. With actor/activist Rob Reiner at his side, Dean touts his “Welcome Baby” and “Dr. Dynasaur” early-childhood initiatives from Vermont, and explains his $ 110 billion plan for federal funding of similar programs. His audience is respectful, but not over-enthused. It’s not until the question-and-answer period that Dean will close the deal, in a fashion utterly typical of his candidacy.

About the Author

Rich Lowry

Rich Lowry is the editor in chief of National Review.

Featured Tags

Manage following

Howard Dean

Presidential Election

Des Moines

Howard Dean is unveiling his early-childhood agenda before a dozen workers in the child-development center at the Des Moines Area Community College. The workers—mostly very sensible-looking older women—sit at tables facing Dean, sporting bright yellow “Child Advocate” stickers and earnestly taking notes. With actor/activist Rob Reiner at his side, Dean touts his “Welcome Baby” and “Dr. Dynasaur” early-childhood initiatives from Vermont, and explains his $ 110 billion plan for federal funding of similar programs. His audience is respectful, but not over-enthused. It’s not until the question-and-answer period that Dean will close the deal, in a fashion utterly typical of his candidacy.