To Oppose a War
Crescateer Amanda Butler (actual political orientation unknown) points to this article suggesting that Abraham Lincoln's opposition to the Mexican War cost him his Congressional seat. This reminds me of one of the reasons I have for supporting Dean: In my judgement, his "far-left hippie" reputation stems entirely from the fact that he opposed the invasion of Iraq. And I think that regardless of how you felt about the war, you have to admit that there was a strong case against it, especially now that the WMD rationale has completely dried up.
It was because he opposed the war that commentators began talking about Howard Dean as the new McGovern, the original concern about his electability. This post by Daniel Drezner shows how many Democratic foreign policy advisors were against Dean solely because of his anti-war views, and the impression I at least took away was that this was politicall driven. The United States cannot afford to become a nation where it is political suicide to oppose a war. Even Steven Den Beste understands the inherent dangers. Because if the McGovern principle can apply to someone like Howard Dean who supported every other military action since Vietnam and even left solid evidence he would act alone if necessary, then it can apply to everyone.
If Dean loses, this will not be the only reason, but I believe it will be a huge part of the reason. And that is part of why I consider this campaign important, not just to change Presidents, but to change America. Future generations are depending on it. Even a respectable showing would leave the door open for future politicians deciding between career and principle in matters of war and peace.
It was because he opposed the war that commentators began talking about Howard Dean as the new McGovern, the original concern about his electability. This post by Daniel Drezner shows how many Democratic foreign policy advisors were against Dean solely because of his anti-war views, and the impression I at least took away was that this was politicall driven. The United States cannot afford to become a nation where it is political suicide to oppose a war. Even Steven Den Beste understands the inherent dangers. Because if the McGovern principle can apply to someone like Howard Dean who supported every other military action since Vietnam and even left solid evidence he would act alone if necessary, then it can apply to everyone.
If Dean loses, this will not be the only reason, but I believe it will be a huge part of the reason. And that is part of why I consider this campaign important, not just to change Presidents, but to change America. Future generations are depending on it. Even a respectable showing would leave the door open for future politicians deciding between career and principle in matters of war and peace.
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