I have never been heavily involved in partisan politics, but these are not normal times. President George W. Bush is endangering the United States and the world's safety while undermining American values. For opposing him, I have been demonized by the Bush campaign.
President Bush ran in 2000 on a platform promising a "humble" foreign policy. If re-elected, the Bush doctrine of preemptive action - and the invasion of Iraq - will be endorsed, and the world will have to live with the consequences. By repudiating Bush's policies at the polls, America will have a chance to regain the respect and support of the world.
The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, required a strong response. But they also led to suspension of the critical process so essential to a democracy - a full and fair discussion of the issues. Bush silenced criticism by calling it unpatriotic. For 18 months after 9/11, he managed to suppress all dissent. That is how he led America in the wrong direction.
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I have never been heavily involved in partisan politics, but these are not normal times. President George W. Bush is endangering the United States and the world's safety while undermining American values. For opposing him, I have been demonized by the Bush campaign.
President Bush ran in 2000 on a platform promising a "humble" foreign policy. If re-elected, the Bush doctrine of preemptive action - and the invasion of Iraq - will be endorsed, and the world will have to live with the consequences. By repudiating Bush's policies at the polls, America will have a chance to regain the respect and support of the world.
The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, required a strong response. But they also led to suspension of the critical process so essential to a democracy - a full and fair discussion of the issues. Bush silenced criticism by calling it unpatriotic. For 18 months after 9/11, he managed to suppress all dissent. That is how he led America in the wrong direction.
We hope you're enjoying Project Syndicate.
To continue reading, subscribe now.
Subscribe
Get unlimited access to PS premium content, including in-depth commentaries, book reviews, exclusive interviews, On Point, the Big Picture, the PS Archive, and our annual year-ahead magazine.
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