John Edwards - "two unequivocal truths ...there are more terrorists and we have fewer allies."

[jefferson_dem]

"Today, we know two unequivocal truths about the results of Bush's approach -- there are more terrorists and we have fewer allies."

-- John Edwards. The quote is from advance excerpts of a speech that Edwards will deliver today on terrorism, in which he'll argue that contra Hillary we are less safe today than we were before 9/11. More excerpts from the speech after the jump.

SOME EXCERPTS FROM JRE PREPARED REMARKS:

"For six years, George Bush has hijacked the language of terrorism and used it to force through an ideological agenda that undermines our values and does nothing to undercut terrorism. ... by the Bush Administration's own admission, we are less safe today. Today, we know two unequivocal truths about the results of Bush's approach - there are more terrorists and we have fewer allies."

<...>

"We need a smart national security strategy to shut down terrorists, not a cynical political strategy to shut down debate. Here's mine:

First, I will strengthen our military to better address the threat posed by terrorist groups to the United States. I will strengthen our force structure, hold regular conferences with top military leadership so their advice isn't filtered, and give back military professionals control over major operational decisions. Second, I recognize what our military commanders have made clear - military action is only one of the tools we have to stop terrorism; we have to supplant the lure of violent extremism with the hope of education, opportunity, and prosperity. I will launch a sweeping global effort to provide education, fight poverty, increase democracy and create a 10,000-member strong "Marshall Corps," all to ensure that terrorism does not take root in weak and failing states.

I believe that every candidate for president, Republican and Democrat, understands that there are terrorists who mean us harm and must be stopped. To suggest otherwise is to do exactly what I have criticized the Administration for doing - reduce the fight against terrorists to a bumper sticker slogan and use it for political gain. Using fear as a wedge issue may help win elections, but it won't protect Americans ... we must come together, and cast fear aside."

Edwards will also propose the following, according to the campaign:

* Rebalance our force structure for the challenges of the new century

* Ensure our intelligence strategy adheres to proven and effective methods

* Create a National Security Budget

* Create a "Marshall Corps" to stabilize weak and failing states

* Hold regular meetings with top military leadership

* Rebuild equipment

http://electioncentral.tpmcafe.com/blog/electioncentral/2007/jun/07/quote_of_the_day#comment

[Cameron27]

1. I'll be interested to hear about the Marshall Corps

he's proposing and how it's supposed to operate.

[BeyondGeography]

2. Good move; she'll live to regret that remark

Even if she gets the nom, the Republicans will have a field day with it.

People keep saying HRC is experienced and plays error-free ball, but that was a blunder.

Compare her simplistic statement with what the supposedly wet-behind-the-ears Obama said, "The Republicans have done some things right..." complimented them for tightening the financial system, and then skewered BushCo. Now THAT's the way to word a responsible answer and not have it held against you.

[Exultant Democracy]

6. It is a good play by Edwards and she earned our scorn with that answer

because either she really thinks we are safer or she is a liar.

[bunnies]

11. Neither.

Its pandering. Pure and simple. Gotta get those R's votes dontcha know!

[Sweet Pea]

3. Military?

Does Edwards have any military experience? Any? At all....?????? Haas he ever been to a base anywhere at anytime? If so, are there pictures proving it?

[LBJDemocrat]

7. What does a military base photo-op prove? nt

[KaptBunnyPants]

8. Do any of the current Dem candidates have a military background?

Not that it matters, our last republican and Democratic presidents weren't service men. And hell, Kerry went to Vietnam and only got crap for it, so being in the service may actually be a liability in modern America.

[slick8790]

9. According to wikipedia...

Gravel served in the Army, and Dodd served in the peace corps and army reserve.

[venable]

10. Ask career military people who know him what they think of Edwards = high esteem

John Locke listed his military advisory committee, and it is very impressive.

And yes, he has been to military bases. Asking for photos seems a little silly, but that's just my opinion. Photo ops mean zip, which you certainly know.

Do you think you have to serve to be in support of troops and military life and VA funding? I doubt that you do.

[StudentsMustUniteNow]

4. Straight talk

Unlike some other candidates.

[draft_mario_cuomo]

5. It sounds good. Edwards continue to run an idea-based campaign nt

[NastyRiffraff]

12. Kudos to you, jefferson_dem

for posting this, since your sig clearly says you're an Obama supporter.

I am heavily leaning towards Edwards...I like what I see, the more he talks. However, if Obama wins the nom, I'll be proud to vote for him in the general.