Dick Cheney: Does It Matter What The People Think?

Vice President Cheney graced us with his presence after being in the shadows for so long. So what does the chief architect of the Iraqi war thinks about the fact that a majority of Americans now think that going to war with Iraq was a mistake? Let’s just say he doesn’t care what you think:

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You know if the mere presence of the author of the greatest strategic blunder in the history of American foreign policy gets to you, in all of his cold and cavalier glory, and his utter contempt for the American people just leaves you speechless, do like I do and let this C-Span caller from St. Louis speak vicariously on your behalf:

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Feel better?

HIStory: The Barack Obama Speech on Race

On Tuesday, March 18, 2008 in Philadelphia, PA Barack Obama gave what many are describing as a historic speech on race in America. Although the occassion was born out of an attempt to ward off insecurities and acute criticisms of his association with his former pastor Jeremiah Wright who made remarks many considered to be inflamatory and anti-American, Senator Obama used the opportunity to raise the bigger issue of race relations

Although this speech was made weeks ago, it is by no means last weeks news. While some political pundits were focused on whether or not this will help distance him from the remarks of Pastor Wright enough to make a difference in his chances in winning the Democratic primary election in Pennsylvania, a refreshingly large number did seized the moment to begin a mature dialogue about race relations in our country. That alone is historic.

How historic was this speech? To this day I am still asking two prevailing questions every chance I get: did you see the Barack Obama speech and where were you when Martin Luther King made the “I Have a Dream” speech.

Whether his performance translates into votes is inconsequential. For the first time it seems a prominent politician spoke to Americans as mature adults capable of having a serious conversation about race. He also called Americans higher, charging us to see through the heavy dose of condescending and sensational news clips of race based comments, riots, protests, or bumper sticker style political sound bites.

Where was this type of maturity in politics when Bush and Cheney, two draft dodging war mongers, were selected as the leaders of our nation over a decorated war veteran? Hopefully the day has come when we can talk about these issues with candor and come to some sober resolutions. Also, perhaps we can usher away the era when pandering dumb down politics ruled the day, when slogans like “whether or not you agree with Bush’s policies at least we know where he stands” can no longer win you elections irregardless of a reckless domestic and foreign policy. [sigh]