And I think the way for us to think about it is-- is to think about it as part of a collective effort. It started in the Clinton administration, was carried forward very aggressively in the Bush administration and now the Obama administration with the—the results that we're all very pleased to see today.Many options.
Don't cheat. Take the poll first.
Source is here.
I was surprised also.
Regards — Cliff
You weren't the one who guessed Barney Frank, were you?
ReplyDeleteI caught this as it was released, and agreed immediately with the sentiment. George W. Bush said something similarly forthright and appropriate, though without as much specific credit. (And, no, I would have expected more nuance from Dick, but was pleased to see he's learning from his former President that it's best to stand together when you've been in this extremely small fraternity).
I've been appalled at the partisanship of the comments from both sides, and wonder why we can't all for a moment just sit back and marvel at the abilities and accomplishments of these servicemen, and all the supporting intelligence and logistical work upon which they based their mission, and thank Providence they are ours.
It's an American Flag moment for sure, and not a partisan one.
Yes, I selected Rep Frank. I was the lead off hitter and had to test the thing. The Rep from the weird district said almost the same thing, but with a lot less grace. His was more of a Chris Mathews presentation. :-)
ReplyDeleteFrankly, I like former VP Dick Chaney about as much as I like Rep Barney Frank.
Regards — Cliff
Misspelled the VEEP's name in the Comments. That was either bad or careless and I apologize.
ReplyDeleteRegards — Cliff
Well.....Cheney spoke the truth. His track record is one of being a heartless, soul-less martinet who would kill his own young if they angered him, but he showed a certain equanimity in his comments. Not surprising. He is after a master politician, and no less provincial or entrenched than any other political figure.....his expression is just a bit more "abrupt."
ReplyDeleteTo his former boss's credit, Bush declined any public comment or presence with regard to the killing of OBL. And people said he lacked class.
Neal, Dubya did comment in a written statement:
ReplyDelete"Earlier this evening, President Obama called to inform me that American forces killed Osama bin Laden, the leader of the al Qaeda network that attacked America on September 11, 2001.
I congratulated him and the men and women of our military and intelligence communities who devoted their lives to this mission. They have our everlasting gratitude.
This momentous achievement marks a victory for America, for people who seek peace around the world, and for all those who lost loved ones on September 11, 2001. The fight against terror goes on, but tonight America has sent an unmistakable message: No matter how long it takes, justice will be done."
Agree about the "statement" which I guess in absolute terms is a "public comment." I view it much more as an official statement intended to stop further requests for public commentary. Other than this transmission, no doubt provided by someone other than Dubya, there has been no further comment. Even his rejection of an invitation to accompany Obama to Ground Zero for a political op event was a note of great class. Wasn't on his watch and he has no desire to be on the stage.
ReplyDeleteThe Bush comments released are reminiscent of the stock phraseology attendant to every military medal citation I've ever written, read, or heard.
Agreed, Neal, that Dubya has the right tack on this. I've been impressed with him from the very start of his ex-Presidency on how he deals with such things. I never cared for him when he was in office, but can't fault him one iota since. Class act.
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