It bothers me to no end how conservatives and Republicans have captured the idealism of the American people, offering a compelling vision that captures the imagination while liberals and Democrats have become basically the grouchy scolds who can only criticize but not offer up any compelling vision of our own that could at least equal the idealism that is inspired by President Bush:
And so it should bother good Democrats! Ever since, the Democratic Party abandoned a Trumanite foreign policy in favour of what McGovern had to offer, Republican presidents have set the international agenda in that they have had a longer occupancy in the Oval Office
In fact, Reagan realised Truman's vision with the collapse of Communism (I'd love to have seen a Democrat realise this) and GWB has effectively encapsulated it into his neconservative agenda. Bush - success or failure - it's too early to tell! Either way, Bush's idealism is nothing original - so I guess Democrats can take some comfort in that
Democrats are now beginning to realise they can achieve little in opposition. By all means, criticise Bush and the GOP-led Congress where it is due - but the Democrats need better, or just as viable, alternatives
Dave
