DAVENPORT, Iowa—
Herman Cain brings his "common sense" philosophy to Davenport on Monday. Beyond the handshakes and smiles at the overflow July meeting for Scott County Republican Women, the country is counting down to another financial crisis. The former CEO for Godfather's Pizza, among several top corporate jobs, knows it hits close to home."To the average citizen, it means uncertainty," Cain said. "It means some chaos in the financial markets. It means some disturbing changes in the stock market."
The debt ceiling does have an impact on the typical citizen. That's why pressure is mounting in Washington to reach a deal.
It's one reason why the political newcomer is running for president. Speaking to more than 100 guests in Davenport, Cain says that the U.S. must solve a debt crisis that never should have happened in the first place.
"We have become a nation of crises," he said. "We have a severe deficiency of leadership in the White House."
Cain portrays himself as a political outsider -- a business leader who's doing this for his grandchildren. That resonates with Republicans.
"We've got to get this economy under control," said Carol Crain, president of Scott County Republican Women. "I think it starts with limiting the debt."
"I think they also understand you have to stand firm in your convictions," added Judy Davidson, Scott County Republicans.
For Herman Cain, that means no tax hike. He calls threats to government programs just scare tactics from Democrats.
"The average citizen, unfortunately, is going to feel the ripple effects of this president not taking leadership a year ago," he concluded.
It's the bottom line from a business leader who wants the country's top job.
