The Idiot Speaks...

Yes, Bush has spoken.

I agree that he's not that smart, and he is not a great speaker. But he said this and this is 100% correct.

And in times like this, we need a leader who will speak the truth, without fearing that we will offend someone (and if any Democrat has the balls to say something this true, I'll be listening. So far I've heard nothing):

There are, however, essential principles common to every successful society, in every culture.

Successful societies limit the power of the state and the power of the military -- so that governments respond to the will of the people, and not the will of an elite.

Successful societies protect freedom with the consistent and impartial rule of law, instead of selectively applying the law to punish political opponents.

Successful societies allow room for healthy civic institutions -- for political parties and labor unions and independent newspapers and broadcast media.

Successful societies guarantee religious liberty -- the right to serve and honor God without fear of persecution.

Successful societies privatize their economies, and secure the rights of property. They prohibit and punish official corruption, and invest in the health and education of their people. They recognize the rights of women. And instead of directing hatred and resentment against others, successful societies appeal to the hopes of their own people.

Absolutely true.

And you can bet that the Arab dictatorships will hear, and fear, these words.

Bush doesn't get my vote because I think he deserves a PhD in political philosophy. No, I don't think he's "brilliant."

But Bush has something that the effete intellectuals lack: the simple faith that freedom is universally applicable. The crazy idea that democracy and capitalism will brighten the dark corners of the world.

And he has the guts to stand up to the tyrants who say otherwise.

Maybe Bush just has the sense to hire good speech writers.

But I can't think of Democrat who even has that.
- posted by total @ 11/06/2003 07:50:00 PM .