Libby

[Ocean_Soul]

There are several new books out on the Clintons. I haven't read the book but have made a point to watching interviews with the authors. The consensus of the authors is that the Clinton do have a genuine believe in the government as a source of service and help to the people.
That isn't to say they aren't political animals, or free from faults. One author criticized Hillary as playing "fast and loose with the truth" to cover up mistakes she had made, being secretive, and unwilling to admit mistakes. In short, they've got a blemish or two.
But they, according to the authors, do believe government should serve the people.
It's consistent with what I know of her record, such as her continuous support of child welfare and education.
I think there is a difference, arguably large or small.
In New York, their new Dem. Governor seems to be a hell on wheels reformer who looks for appointees not in the states political machines, but sometimes by advertizing in the "Want Ad" for any comers.
PS. Nice to hear from you Ocean_Soul
TG

I’d have to agree there, Clinton was probably one of the better US presidents, both domestically and internationally. Again, not to say he was perfect, I can’t remember the details but I believe there was another Libby-like incident where this time someone was allowed to walk so he wouldn’t spill the beans. I forget most of the details oddly enough other than I believe it had something to do with South America.

My interest in US politics is mostly in their international relations so I don’t know much about matters domestic unless they have some synergy with international events. Like the war on terror’s collaboration with America’s apparent war on its own citizens and the innumerable collection of lies (or attempts as I don't know how many are actually buying them all) regarding the Iraq war being spread around.

Also, I think a couple here are aiming a lot of blame at Bush for poor international relations. Remember after 9/11 and America’s call to arms got the support of essentially no-one? The good-will towards the United States by the international community was already pretty dry at that time. There’s something deeper that needs to be addressed and won’t end with Bush and Chaney leaving office.

[TG]

Hi Ocean_Soul,
Great to see someone interested in the political section.

"Like the war on terror’s collaboration with America’s apparent war on its own citizens and the innumerable collection of lies (or attempts as I don't know how many are actually buying them all) regarding the Iraq war being spread around."

Without claiming much accuracy, about 50%-50% of the American public seems very gullible or aware of what's going on. You're right about it being a war on it's own citizens. People just don't get Bush was a demagogue who spouted some clinches at them, and used them for his own political purposes.

It drives me batty.

Gullibility is a psychological problem involving how integrated the personality is. What are you going to do? Send several million people to psychologists for 8yrs., against their will?

"Also, I think a couple here are aiming a lot of blame at Bush for poor international relations. Remember after 9/11 and America’s call to arms got the support of essentially no-one? The good-will towards the United States by the international community was already pretty dry at that time. There’s something deeper that needs to be addressed and won’t end with Bush and Chaney leaving office."[/QUOTE]

I found your last paragraph fascinating and surprising. I didn't realize our good will abroad was so bad before Bush came to office, and I was one of the ones blaming him for our disastrous international standing. I hope you elaborate because you certainly have got my attention.

"There’s something deeper that needs to be addressed and won’t end with Bush and Chaney leaving office."[/QUOTE]

You've got to spell that one out. You can't leave with that tease as your parting comment. Do you mean our naivety and feeling of self-importance? We have no monopoly on that. That's a human condition, that each of us struggles with. Been to France recently? Hell, the better name for that would be "maturation."

Ocean_Soul, what did you do? Open a can of worms?
TG