Why a religious wacko won in Iran

[Goldmund]

Well, look at Shrub's approval ratings after 9/11 and all will be clear.

It always happens, in every country. If there's an external threat and people feel they're in danger from something outside of their country, they rally around the most nationalist, conservative, jingoist leader.

[Democracy White]

1. That is always true

[stepnw1f]

2. Yeah... Freedoms on the March... Remember?

It's like a really bad joke.

[pnorman]

3. Large voter turnout in Iran is thanks to Bush, spy chief says

Large voter turnout in Iran is thanks to Bush, spy chief says
Monday, June 20, 2005
Brian Murphy
Associated Press

Tehran, Iran - Iran's spy chief used just two words to respond to White House ridicule of last week's presidential election: "Thank you."

His sarcasm was barely hidden. The backfire on Washington was more evident.

The barbs from President Bush were widely seen in Iran as damaging to pro-reform groups because the comments appeared to have boosted turnout among hard-liners in Friday's election - with the result being that an ultraconservative now is in a two- way showdown for the presidency.

"I say to Bush: 'Thank you,' " quipped Intelligence Minister Ali Yunesi. "He motivated people to vote in retaliation."
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http://www.cleveland.com/world/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/news/1119267019151730.xml&coll=2

pnorman