tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20077444.post2534899986478603333..comments2024-03-26T04:21:43.535-05:00Comments on Free Association: Civil War PresidentSheldon Richmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15672237234580563637noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20077444.post-26564433375883793322009-12-03T21:03:37.969-06:002009-12-03T21:03:37.969-06:00While I disagree with Mr. Obama on a great many is...While I disagree with Mr. Obama on a great many issues, I think we should acknowledge the real rationale behind the decision.<br /><br />Mr. Obama can escalate, stay the course (maintain troop levels), or withdraw. If the US suffers another terrorist attack, Obama's political future is made much less vulnerable by his escalation. This is a CYA strategy familiar to all bureaucrats.<br /><br />If he maintains current levels, it will be seen as doing nothing -- anathema to those who wish to expand or end the war. He may be justly blamed for "not doing more" (escalating) to disrupt terrorist organizations.<br /><br />If he withdraws, and an attack occurs, he will be blamed for inviting an attack through weakness.<br /><br />Just as Mr. Bush instantly pinned 9/11 on Osama bin Laden and quickly attacked Afghanistan to win an easy, symbolic victory, Mr. Obama will follow self-interest.<br /><br />Lacking higher principles, lacking the courage to admit our misteke, lacking the humanity to stop the killing, our presidents are dedicated to gaining and keeping power at whatever price must be paid in the lives and treasure provided by others.Fredric Dennis Williamshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01156583628911855886noreply@blogger.com