Friday, July 30, 2004

I was getting a little punchy towards the end of the speech and I don’t think I was clear enough about my position when I said the following:

I will say this for him. I believe him when he says that he will do what he can to keep Americans safe against terrorism. I believe him when he says he’ll use deadly force and our military if it’s required. My concern is that he’ll be a little behind the 8-ball because he’ll be trying to “restore alliances” that we shouldn’t have to have in order to protect ourselves.

1. I believe him because I have to. The idea that any President wouldn’t do what he needed to do to keep Americans safe is horrifying. So I say that I believe that he will do what he can to keep Americans safe is as much me trying to reassure myself on that fact.

2. Again, I believe that he’ll use the military if it’s required because I need to believe it for my own sanity.

Look, I think that President Clinton proved that a President will try to do what he thinks is the right thing for America. Say what you will about the former President, I do think that he tried. And what it gets down to is the philosophy about America’s defense.

I believe that the next President will need to continue to be proactive on the potential for further terrorist attacks than reactive. And that is the substantial difference between President Bush and Senator Kerry. Bush is proactive, he’s proved it. I believe that a President Kerry will be more reactive - because of his stance on war and the military and his world view.

In addition, I’m a bit isolationist, so I don’t give a flying fig if France and Germany are on board with how we protect ourselves (and them, for that matter). What I care about is that we, America, do what we need to do to keep our citizens safe. Period. Now, if other countries want to join the fight, then they’re welcome. All others need to shut it and go on about their business and don’t come whining for our help when you’re attacked.

So, to be clear - I do not want to see a President Kerry. The thought horrifies me, to be honest. But I think back on the Clinton years and I realize that while he can screw some things up, it’ll be done with what he thinks is the best interest of America in mind. Does that make sense?