EMAIL OF THE DAY

“I’m a social libertarian, fiscally conservative, hawk — an eagle, in your lexicon. In the past, I’ve been willing to give Democrats a chance. I voted for Clinton in 1992, although I soon regretted it. Since 9/11, I’ve morphed into a one-issue voter — the war on terrorism, at home and abroad. And until recently, my efforts to be open to John Kerry ran aground whenever I considered who the terrorists would rather see elected. And my anxiety only intensified after recent reports on pre-election terrorism attacks. Surely the terrorists’ rationale for such attacks would be to help elect Kerry, a la Spain. I’m not sure American voters would react the way Spaniards did, but the terrorists may not appreciate the resolve of the American heartland.
But if the terrorists were listening to Edwards last night, and Obama the night before, they may be second-guessing their plans. If the Kerry camp’s war rhetoric is in earnest (and there are good reasons to doubt it), then the terrorists may not get the easier ride they were strategizing for.
What I see happening is an emerging consensus around winning the war on terror and achieving a successful outcome in Iraq. The parties are jockeying to be seen as tougher and more hawkish. For me, there’s only goodness in that.
And If Kerry wins, then the Democrats will have to assume responsibility and accountability for protecting Americans from terror. And God forbid if another attack occurs on Kerry’s watch, the American public’s call for a tough response (and yes, retribution) will force the Democrat to take an even more hawkish stance. They’ll have to — to protect their power base, the Kerry administration.
And a Kerry administration paired with Republican control in either house of Congress would result in fiscal deadlock, which ain’t all bad either.
There’s a long way to go between now and the election, but my mind is again opening to the Dems.” I couldn’t put it better myself. I have long dreamed that the Democrats might get serious again about national security. That issue – and spending – kept me from them for a long time. But with the GOP spending like LBJ-Dems, and Kerry sounding very tough on the war, I’m open to persuasion. Tonight’s speech will be critical. Stay tuned.