On the eve of the Primaries I just want to say how proud I am of all

a_random_joel

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Tue Jan-13-04 01:57 PM
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On the eve of the Primaries I just want to say how proud I am of all

...of our Democratic candidates! Has such a gifted and well-represented field ever been assembled? I have made my choice and will be selecting Dean in the California primary (which probably won't matter much), but I just wanted to say that seeing all of these fine, talented folks is exhilarating to me and I have faith that any of them would be a clear choice from the Unelected Liar/War Profiteer.

Please respect this thread and keep it flame-free.

I respect Howard Dean because he is a doctor. This man is intelligent and articulate. He shoots from the hip, but we know where he stands. If he goes down, he will go down swinging.

I respect Wesley Clark because he is a 4-star general and combat veteran. He has a distinguished and presidential look and manner. He has stated many progressive ideals that most of us agree with, even though he may be new to the Democratic field.

I respect Richard Gephardt because of his experience and his sincerity. I might not agree with him on all of the positions, but I am confident his intentions are good, and he is doing what he thinks is the best course of action. He is a man of integrity, character and labor, which ain't bad by me.

I respect John Kerry because he is eloquent, dignified and experienced. He has a record of fighting the good fight. He is a combat veteran and clearly progressive on many key issues. There is no questioning Kerry's integrity even if one is at odds with some of his positions.

I respect Al Sharpton for continuing to battle for civil rights in this country and for fighting to ensure that this nation becomes the standard of egalitarianism that we are destined to be. I respect that he is man of God, who chooses not to force God on men. I respect his wit, humor and amazing linguistic and oratory skills.

I respect John Edwards for his vigor, enthusiasm, and his apparent desire to "remain above the fray". He is articulate, and unlike so many in the media, I see his legal skills and career as an attribute - not a liability. I respect him as a man from the South who is willing to stand up for progressive values in a very Red demographic and geographic area.

I respect Dennis Kucinich for his passion. I respect that he came from a poor background and is not ashamed of it. Like myself, he believes that adversity makes one stronger and wiser, and is therefore willing to embrace the less fortunate souls among us. His ideology is clearly and unapologetically liberal in a time when the word has become synonymous with so many epithets.

I respect Carol Mosely Braun for being brave and strong enough to stand up as an African-American woman in a game that is dominated by White males. I respect her grace, goodwill and diplomacy. Her experience is also commendable.

Finally, I respect Joe Lieberman. He is the current Vice-President, even though he doesn't seem to know it, and... he would be better than Bush.

A big hearty round of applause for all of our fine candidates.