Facing wary swing voters in 2004, Bush’s convention speech acknowledged his flaws and disarmed critics with self-effacing humor.

Follow this authorMarc A. Thiessen's opinions

“In the last four years, you and I have come to know each other,” Bush declared. “Even when we don’t agree, at least you know what I believe and where I stand.”

“You may have noticed I have a few flaws,” he continued. “People sometimes have to correct my English. I knew I had a problem when Arnold Schwarzenegger started doing it. Some folks look at me and see a certain swagger — which in Texas is called ‘walking.’ Now and then I come across as a little too blunt — and for that we can all thank the white-haired lady sitting right up there,” he said, pointing to his mother, former first lady Barbara Bush.

Advertisement

“One thing I have learned about the presidency is that whatever shortcomings you have, people are going to notice them,” he declared, “and whatever strengths you have, you’re going to need them.”

By addressing his perceived shortcomings with humor, he allowed voters to say to themselves: Okay, he gets it. He understands what we don’t like about him. And, in demonstrating that self-awareness, he gave them permission to look past his flaws and vote for him.

Trump needs to do something similar in his convention address in Milwaukee — in his own, inimitable way. We know that he can make jokes about himself — just watch his prepresidential appearances on “Saturday Night Live.” Trump can be charming and disarming when he chooses. He should use those skills to address the concerns of swing voters.

Advertisement

He could go with something like this: “I know I rub some the wrong way. Occasionally, I’m a little rough on people — in New York we call that ‘a Bronx cheer.’ Sometimes, I may exaggerate a tiny a bit — in New York we call that ‘negotiating.’ Perhaps I’ve got a little too much........

© Washington Post