By Douglas Holtz-Eakin
The young drop coverage to avoid higher premiums
The general-election campaign unofficially kicked off Tuesday with Mitt Romney continuing to sharpen his criticism of President Obama, saying a second term for the incumbent would be dangerous because he is not being upfront about the policies he plans to pursue.
The nation's steady-but-modest job growth presents political challenges for both of November's all-but-certain presidential rivals.
Just six months ago, Senate Republicans seemed poised to march to victory in 2012 and easily retake control of the upper chamber of Congress, but some successful Democratic recruiting and some unintentional help from the tea party in recent months have made next year's overall contest more competitive.
"The North Carolina that Sen. [Jesse] Helms ran in was certainly different than today," said Republican campaign strategist Brian Nick, referring to the cantankerous five-term Republican senator.
Brian Nick, a GOP strategist, said the message could help Mr. Romney make inroads with voters who supported Mr. Clinton and then Mr. Obama, only to become disenchanted with Mr. Obama's policies and style of governing.
In campaign twist, Romney camp plays Clinton card against Obama →
