Democratic Vision

Imagine the year is 2000. Being the political junkie that you are, you decide to browse the official party platforms produced by the Democrats and Republicans. Here are portions of what you find:

Democratic Party Platform in 2000:

Whether terrorism is sponsored by a foreign nation or inspired by a single fanatic individual, such as Osama Bin Laden, Forward Engagement requires trying to disrupt terrorist networks, even before they are ready to attack.

In 2004 we know: The Democrats knew where the threat was coming from.

As President, Al Gore will tolerate no attack against American interests at home or abroad: terrorists must know that if they attack America, we will never forget. We will scour the world to hunt them down and bring them to justice.

In 2004 we know: Al Gore did have a clearly stated plan for dealing with terrorism.

While fighting terrorism, we will protect the civil liberties of all Americans. Our justice system must guarantee fairness with procedures that protect the rights of the accused, even under the unusual circumstances of the investigation of threats to our national security.

In 2004 we know: The Democrats understood the need to protect civil liberties even in a time of conflict.

Republican Party Platform in 2000:

Increasingly, terrorists seem to be motivated by amorphous religious causes or simple hatred of America rather than by specific political aims.

In 2004 we know: Bin Laden perceives our support of the Saudi Arabian and Israeli governments as a direct threat to the Muslim world. Also, the phrase "simple hatred" must be the most idiotic thing I've ever read. There is nothing simple about a hatred that causes a human to give their life, or take the lives of others. To think otherwise is to foolishly underestimate the thought process of any human being.

[W]e will bring individual terrorists to justice. Past and potential terrorists will know that America will never stop hunting them.

In 2004 we know: On March 13, 2002, in regards to Osama Bin Laden, Bush said "I truly am not that concerned about him." Apparently Bush will only hunt down terrorists when it's politically convenient.

Fighting international terrorism requires international collaboration. Once again, allies matter.

In 2004 we know: Pure and simple, this was a promise that the Republicans were unwilling to keep. Though I don't believe it's an outright lie, it most definately exemplifies the lack of adherence to stated principles that plagues those afflicted with the Republican Condition.