posted on Feb, 10 2004 @ 09:07 AM
Whether you like Dean or not, one thing is certain, the early front-runner has played an integral role in setting the tone of the presidential debate,
motivating new voters and some say (or will say) denying President Bush his imminent reelection...once ordained by God himself. That Bush might lose
is something even Democrats are just now coming to realize as they shift from "blaze of glory" Dean to "electable" Kerry.
What once seemed inevitable, a Bush second term, now seems implausible as Bush stumps from state to state with the same tired themes: Saddam bad,
world better, economy not my fault. Watching Bush's recent efforts, it's easy to imagine that the rumors he is shielded from the press and
dissent alike are certainly true. He just doesn't get it; Never has, never will.
Built up by proponents and opponents alike as the "common man" President, at one time America's cowboy hero could do no wrong. Even the most
laughable of fumbles simply made Bush more endeared to the soccer mom's, bible thumpers and liberal elite haters that considered him the "breath of
fresh air" the conservative movement needed. Bush was, after all, breathing.
Then came Dean, a rally point for angry college students and disenfranchised Democrats alike. Dean set the tone for Bush bashing early. Grown ups that
balanced budgets and owned guns were finally allowed to speak ill of the wartime commander. And the press loves a conflict so it made one: Dean versus
Bush. Over a year until the elections and the press declared Bush the winner. Whoops, the people hadn't spoken yet, and the press had made them
mad.
Dean got them registered and angry, the press said Dean couldn't win, so the people (as we speak) are electing an "electable" candidate. I mean
seriously electable, a veteran of the military and numerous campaigns alike, Kerry has been around. He's certainly been savvy enough to adopt the
heat of Dean, yet in a more civilized demeanor, and rake in those conciliatory votes from people that may really like Dean, Edwards or Clark, but want
to beat Bush more.
And there's your theme: Beat Bush. Not be right on the war, not be an outsider, and certainly not be the most likable or interesting character...just
be electable with the least to criticize. In other words, be breathing. Yes, Kerry and Bush have their similarities as well as differences, though
contrary to many posters suggestions, there's little chance that a Skull & Bones conspiracy is in play here. It's the voters, Stupid.
The bandwagon is passing by Deaniacs. My hat's off to the guy and his supporters for their part in turning 2004 from a "statement year" into a
victorious one for the Democrats, but there's a point of diminished returns where if you're anti-Kerry, you're pro-Bush.
'Tis the way of the world friends. Welcome to the real one. See you at the Kerry/Edwards victory party.