Democratic politics from the center
Archive for July, 2010
Cameron-like concervatism in the U.S.?
Jul 24th
According to Michael Gerson UK conservatism is the biggest threat to democrats and President Obama. His column argues that republicans may regain power by proposing austerity measures in the mold Cameron’s June 22, budget.
It’d be interesting to see if his prediction materialize. This would require — as he acknowledges — the republicans to raise taxes (on the wealthy); a crucial step that they seem unwilling to take. Congress is going to have to vote for tax hikes as well as spending cuts to successfully decrease the deficit. Cuts would not only impact welfare programs but also the defense department, including its off budget items (Iraq and Afghanistan). Are the republicans ready for that?
Palin’s “Peace-seeking muslim” commnent
Jul 19th
Sarah Palin’s twitter profile sent out a two very controversial tweets yesterday.
Here is the first:
Peaceful New Yorkers, pls refute the Ground Zero mosque plan if you believe catastrophic pain caused @ Twin Towers site is too raw, too real
Here is the second (and most controversial):
Peace-seeking Muslims, pls understand, Ground Zero mosque is UNNECESSARY provocation; it stabs hearts. Pls reject it in interest of healing
I’m not very familiar with the underlying issue, but I find these quite disturbing. There is no question that Palin is entitled to her views on the mosque’s construction, but these tweets’ wording is inconsiderate and imprudent. Perhaps Palin’s true intent was lost in the days of 140 character long statements, but she is still responsible for her words. What is the point of adding the words “peace-seeking Muslims” when the tweet could have instead called on New York’s community and those pushing for the new mosque (actually it’s going to be a center) to empathize with those against its construction.
I personally do not see the harm More >