Friday, June 10, 2005
Howard's End?
It looks to be a long four years under the erratic guidance of Dr. Dean.
Unsurprisingly, I'm annoyed at Dean's recent remarks. Declaring Tom DeLay guilty before the Hammer is judged by a jury of his peers seems a mite headstrong. It seems worse if one remembers that Dean hasn't always been so keen on prejudging trial outcomes. Back in 2003, he remarked:
As to Dean's remarks about Republicans, well what is there to say? Yes the GOP is dominated by the religious right and the wealthy, but what benefit is there to be had by saying that Republicans have "never made an honest living in their lives"? How does that advance Dean's great project of building a 50 state party? You know, the one he thinks he's discovered.
The role of party chairman bears more financial and ceremonial importance than it does political authority. Nonetheless, Dean will be in a position of visibility for years to come and he would do well to think less about "You go, girl!" moments and more about appealing to people turned off by gross characterizations and partisan mudflinging.
Unsurprisingly, I'm annoyed at Dean's recent remarks. Declaring Tom DeLay guilty before the Hammer is judged by a jury of his peers seems a mite headstrong. It seems worse if one remembers that Dean hasn't always been so keen on prejudging trial outcomes. Back in 2003, he remarked:
I will have this old-fashioned notion that even with people like Osama, who is very likely to be found guilty, we should do our best not to, in positions of executive power, not to prejudge jury trials.Not the sort of thing that plays well in Peoria. One can either hold to the principle or pretend that they're another Nancy Grace. Doing both looks hypocritical.
As to Dean's remarks about Republicans, well what is there to say? Yes the GOP is dominated by the religious right and the wealthy, but what benefit is there to be had by saying that Republicans have "never made an honest living in their lives"? How does that advance Dean's great project of building a 50 state party? You know, the one he thinks he's discovered.
The role of party chairman bears more financial and ceremonial importance than it does political authority. Nonetheless, Dean will be in a position of visibility for years to come and he would do well to think less about "You go, girl!" moments and more about appealing to people turned off by gross characterizations and partisan mudflinging.
