If this be a low blow, make the most of it: I now have had
enough, and I am indeed questioning the patriotism of the House
Democratic leadership. This is something I never have done before.
But in light of
this story from Politico, I think the only conclusion is that
these people actually think national security is a matter for
political gamesmanship. The House has had three full weeks BEYOND
THE EXPIRATION of the FISA bill to get its act together -- the 21
days they themselves demanded, which was an unreasonable delay in
the first place -- after already having six months and 15 days to
get its act together, yet it still refuses to extend this measure
that many Democrats like Jay Rockefeller and Bob Kerrey say is
absolutely necessary for this nation's security. Even worse, if
this is indeed the attitude of the House leadership, is this:
One House member "speaking on the condition of
anonymity" suggested it could be a long time, if ever, before the
bill was brought for a vote.
"A lot of people think the politics of doing
nothing on this issue are very good for both sides of the political
spectrum," they said.
Do these people understand that, according to every key official
in the country, including the utterly nonpartisan director of
national intelligence, this measure could mean life or death for
many many thousands of people? Amazingly, a House majority ALREADY
exists to pass the Senate version of the bill, but the House
leadership will not let it come up for a vote. I wish the Blue Dog
Dems who support it, thus creating the majority, would have enough
courage of their convictions to sign a discharge petition and force
it to a vote. But the House leadership seems to think "the politics
of doing nothing" are good -- so politics trumps national security.
Amazing.
I feel a whole column coming on, but, basically, this could be
the straw that breaks this camel's back in terms of refraining from
questioning the motives of the Demo leaders. On issue after issue
after issue related to defense, they have offered NOT A SINGLE
proposal to actually help the United States succeed in our efforts
at fighting terrorists or at securing the peace in Iraq. Other than
Joe Biden, the leading Dems have all acted as if we are indeed the
"bad guys" in Iraq, as if they are ashamed not just of American
conduct of the war but of American aims and motives. These people
are so besotted with their hatred for President Bush, and with
their guilt about this nation's prominence and wealth, that they
actually seem to hope we lose and that we are embarrassed on the
world stage. And now they refuse even to make it a priority to pass
this key electronic surveillance bill. To reasonable eyes, this
does indeed look unpatriotic.
topics:
Joe Biden, Iraq
