I got something nice to say for W, since nobody else does. I sort of liked this article, from a kinder, gentler time.
Bush Says G.O.P. Stresses Wealth at Expense of Tackling Social Ills nytimes.com
And that wasn't supposed to be a complimentary statement, at the time anyway.
But any rebuke to fellow Republicans is usually implicit. Bush's comments on Tuesday was decidedly explicit and veered toward the confrontational. He seemed to challenge fellow Republicans not only to look beyond the bottom line when assessing the state of the nation, but also to devote as much energy to problem-solving as to stern moralizing.
"Too often, on social issues, my party has painted an image of America slouching toward Gomorrah," Bush said.
A few sentences later, in another swipe at Republicans, Bush added, "Too often, my party has confused the need for limited government with a disdain for government itself."
Poor W, reaching for the center before his time, now he's stuck trying to outflank McCain on the right. Now, of course, reaching for the center and appeal to independents is anathema.
I have to give my official endorsement to W. Though I like McCain better personally, I like W ok too, I feel sorry for him being run around in circles by the neoconservative political theologians. A populist conservative Republican with cross-party appeal, generating genuine enthusiasm in a jaded electorate, who wants that running in November? W's the man for me!
Cheers, Dan. |
