The release of a secret recording of Mitt Romney speaking to a group of donors in Florida last May has affected the presidential race.

In the video, Mr. Romney said that 47 percent of the electorate will vote for President Barack Obama, that they are “dependent upon government,” “believe that they are victims” and feel that “government has a responsibility to care for them” by providing entitlements.

The Republican presidential nominee added that “47 percent of Americans pay no income tax” and that, as a candidate, his role “is not to worry about those people.”

Mr. Romney sought to put the remarks in context the next day, saying that his answer to a question at the May event was “not elegantly stated.” He denied essentially writing off half of the country, saying: “Of course I want to help all Americans. All Americans have a bright and prosperous future.”

Throughout this week, Mr. Romney has developed the theme that his campaign supports “the 100 percent in America.”

At the same time, the Republican’s 47 percent remarks have allowed Mr. Obama to explain that a president must represent and serve all the people.

Democrats have spun the Romney remarks to great advantage, saying that the Republican has written off half the country, that he does not care about working families and the poor.

The Republican candidate must refute those charges. Gov. Romney must show that he does indeed care about all Americans and demonstrate how his policies will help people prosper and better their lives.

The philosophical differences in this election are worth airing. It is disingenuous to argue that Mr. Romney is an uncaring, heartless person with no forethought for the challenges facing that 47 percent of Americans.

But his campaign needs to get busy making the argument for a Romney presidency. He must give people hope that his vision and leadership will make a difference in their lives.

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