Presidents Don’t Vacation During Wartime
The Russian-Georgian conflict, in addition to the primary destruction it’s causing, also has the unintended consequence of playing into the hands of the McCain candidacy. McCain can claim experience, refer to meetings he’s had with the leaders of the protagonist nations, and without crowing about his own military service, remind voters of it simply by his presence on the stage.
Obama’s issued a statement. Not enough. Not even close. Although he may well be the one who ultimately can bring about a more peaceful world, he may never get to enact his vision if he doesn’t immediately and in full view of the press get off the hammock and get on the hot line.
His vacation was no doubt well earned and much needed. However, he needs to demonstrate ASAP that as President he’d be the embodiment of vigilance, so that the American public is reassured, and so that McCain doesn’t use Barack’s vacation as fodder for a future campaign ad that helps lead to a victory in November.
While Senator Obama’s supporters feared that a terrorist attack prior to the election would drive swing voters to the supposed security of a McCain presidency, the current perception is that Obama and his brain trust haven’t prepared adequately for the possibility of an old school conventional conflict, and the negative effect it might have on his candidacy. Although this may not, in truth, be the case, perception is reality all too often in this Drudge Report world.
If he doesn’t appear presidential now he may never get to be presidential later.
4 Comments
Additional comments powered by BackType
This ain’t no party.
This ain’t no disco.
This ain’t no fooling around.
- Talking Heads, “Life During Wartime”
Sometimes I just shake my head and sigh…
great record and a reminder that artists and laymen alike seem to see the required obvious action well before the public figures do. as i do believe that with some exceptions (notably the knucklehead from Crawford) we elect some bright and perceptive people, the grip that special interests have on our elected officials must be vice-like, for them to take so long to react in all too obvious ways.
This is a nasty little can of worms, a strong response, ala McNut, will be seen as presumptuous. Bellicose statements, when you do not have the authority to back them can prove disastrous to the quiet diplomacy that is no doubt going on. If Friday’s announcement is Biden, Obama will immediately gain the upper hand on this issue, but the wait for Biden’s foot to re-enter his mouth will begin. Perhaps a week or two of reflection before a decision which will affect our relations with Russia isn’t such a bad thing.
hi Gale. i believe that most of the American public (based in no small measure on the fact that they somehow not just elected, but re-elected Dubya) likes simple answers that allow them to return to watching professional wrestling and playing video games. so even though McCain’s response is presumptuous, it will be seen as strong, tough, etc. his bellicosity, as you note, is potentially disruptive to the back channel diplomatic efforts, but it will again be seen as the same attractive macho posturing.
we disagree about Biden, although i too would begin the foot in mouth watch should he be selected for veep. i don’t think he adds to the electability factor; i believe Hillary does.
and i fully agree with the week or two (or three) of reflection before taking on the rejuvenated KGB led bear.
thanks again for writing and stay in touch. LK