The American Spectator

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br> -- Gregg Calkins /p> p> BEYOND BLAMING THE 'VICK'TIM br> Re: Jay D. Homnick's I Beg Mr. Vick's Pardon : /p>

I am neither an animal rights, nor a law and order, fanatic (at least, I hope that I am not), but I cannot imagine any circumstances that would justify a presidential pardon in the Michael Vick case. First, Michael Vick's athletic proficiency and unique talents are not mitigating factors for clemency, but arguments for the unflinching application of the law, which must apply to everyone equally, regardless of their station. Michael Vick had prestige, wealth, and a unique place in our culture. He chose to entertain himself by torturing animals for sport, in defiance of both the law and simple human decency. His contrition came after he was caught, and I have no doubt that he is sorry about that, but is there any doubt that, had he not been publicly exposed, he would have continued his activities?

Second, to apply a pardon to such a man in order to pander to African-American voters is absurd. Vick didn't torture dogs because he was black, he did it because he was a sadist, and to free him because he is black is to imply a link between the two. African-American voters will not remember it as an outreach to their community, but as condescension that implies moral equivalence between race and criminality. This is the argument of white liberals, who equate punishing crime with racism.

p>If Republican candidates wish to engage African-American voters, they must get the message out into that community, where it will resonate with those who are receptive. There is a huge black middle class that works, pays taxes, raises their children responsibly, serves honorably in the armed forces and loves their country and despises the gang-bangers and thugs who claim to represent them. We can and must speak to them as respected equals in venues where they will receive the message. br> -- Mike Harris br> MAJ, USA

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