"Stick to the US scene, Howard, your kind of 'socialism' will not work here."

I don't recall Dean ever coming out in support of any kind of socialism.

He may have been the most left-wing serious candidate in the last presidential race but - like most Democrats - on economic issues he's miles to the right of New Labour.

The 'I have a scream' speech which allegedly skewered his campaign (I think it's highly unlikely he could have got the nomination anyway) was heavily promoted - and placed in a particular context - by powerful media outlets who opposed his agenda.

It obviously wasn't political genius but he was a commiserating with supporters after losing a primary vote at the time, not giving the state of the union address.  

We have a go at politicians for not caring, then we have a go at them for showing they care. Can't win, really.

All that said, I very much doubt that New Labour want Dean to tell them how to make speeches or come up with policies - they want him to tell them how to generate loads of support (and cash) through the internet.

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