2008 Woodie Awards
In age of terrorism, cordial promises of bipartisanship are poor substitute for desire and will to take action
James Marconi
Issue date: 1/25/07 Section: Opinion
Similarly, given the recent shift in political winds, Bush can ill afford to make bold, sweeping statements likely to set off the Democratic Congress. After all, it is this Congress that will consider the economic and military requests outlined in the State of the Union Address.
Despite his warm tone and friendly overtures across the aisle, though, the president's speech illustrates that his convictions are still firm. In fact, the latter half of the address discussed the dangers and challenges still presented by a global war on terror.
"In the sixth year since our nation was attacked, I wish I could report to you that the dangers have ended. They have not. And so it remains the policy of this government to use every lawful and proper tool of intelligence, diplomacy, law enforcement, and military action to do our duty, to find these enemies, and to protect the American people," Bush said.
He also asked that his current tactics in Iraq be allowed the opportunity to succeed, for the consequences of withdrawal would be dire.
"Whatever you voted for, you did not vote for failure. Our country is pursuing a new strategy in Iraq - and I ask you to give it a chance to work. And I ask you to support our troops in the field - and those on their way."
Like his opening, these words are simply that - words. But unlike the somewhat belated congratulations given to his political opponents, they carry dignity, they carry force.
As the media has portrayed time and again, Bush's status in the polls are at a low point. They paint a portrait of an administration characterized by waning public support, a hostile legislature, and a party divided.
Yet the message I heard on Tuesday evening reflected none of this seemingly abysmal news. Instead, there was a simple, clear desire to triumph in the face of evil, pandering to partisan politics be damned. I heard sincerity, I heard a strong will, I heard hope. This man, often beleaguered and belittled, still had the courage to stand by the principles that have guided his term in office. Maybe just words, but words whose very unpopularity make it clear that they are not spoken for temporary gain or political expediency. Appearances mean little in this world, and though occasionally necessary, I much prefer to have a chief executive who acts on his promises.
Despite his warm tone and friendly overtures across the aisle, though, the president's speech illustrates that his convictions are still firm. In fact, the latter half of the address discussed the dangers and challenges still presented by a global war on terror.
"In the sixth year since our nation was attacked, I wish I could report to you that the dangers have ended. They have not. And so it remains the policy of this government to use every lawful and proper tool of intelligence, diplomacy, law enforcement, and military action to do our duty, to find these enemies, and to protect the American people," Bush said.
He also asked that his current tactics in Iraq be allowed the opportunity to succeed, for the consequences of withdrawal would be dire.
"Whatever you voted for, you did not vote for failure. Our country is pursuing a new strategy in Iraq - and I ask you to give it a chance to work. And I ask you to support our troops in the field - and those on their way."
Like his opening, these words are simply that - words. But unlike the somewhat belated congratulations given to his political opponents, they carry dignity, they carry force.
As the media has portrayed time and again, Bush's status in the polls are at a low point. They paint a portrait of an administration characterized by waning public support, a hostile legislature, and a party divided.
Yet the message I heard on Tuesday evening reflected none of this seemingly abysmal news. Instead, there was a simple, clear desire to triumph in the face of evil, pandering to partisan politics be damned. I heard sincerity, I heard a strong will, I heard hope. This man, often beleaguered and belittled, still had the courage to stand by the principles that have guided his term in office. Maybe just words, but words whose very unpopularity make it clear that they are not spoken for temporary gain or political expediency. Appearances mean little in this world, and though occasionally necessary, I much prefer to have a chief executive who acts on his promises.
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