Bush's Democracy Problem
Wouldn't it be nice to go through life with the blissful certainty of our President? That way you wouldn't have to be bothered with contradictions and complexities that arise from being the unelected leader of the world's most powerful democracy, pushing policies that are out of step with the vast majority of the country's (and the world's ) citizens. Bush has always worn his "man of the people" hat, even though it clashes with his boardroom suits. But lately, the unpopularity of his policies at home and abroad have brought his true feelings about representative government to the surface. Consider these positions, apparently held by the Prez according to his own articulate utterances:
- The only way for the UN Security Council to maintain credibility is to act as a rubber-stamp for US policy. If it actually becomes an outlet for international debate, it threatens to become irrelevant.
- Protests are a healthy expression of democracy, just as long as the views of the protesters are completely ignored in the making of policy. That would be like governing by focus group (e.g., consulting the views of the people), after all.
- US troops fought to restore democracy in France and Germany, but when their governments act in accordance with the wishes of upwards of 80% of their populations, they suddenly lack commitment to freedom.
- Tony Blair is a "man of principle" for sacrificing his own political future to support the Administration's war plan. Bush won't spend a penny of his political capital to stand up to Republican hard-liners, even on issues he disagrees with like farm and steel subsidies.
In a representative government, there is, in the end, little practical difference between being right and being popular. Leaders are delegated with the responsibility to exercise their judgment, but primarily they govern in the name of their people. Bush, the American people's second choice in the 2000 election, occupies the office of President, not King. A little humility in the face of widespread opposition would be a nice gesture from someone about to shed a lot of blood in the name of democracy and freedom.
8:08:24 AM 
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