I have carefully listened to all the candidates - Republican and Democrat - for president. Having carefully listened to each of them, watched C-Span for their full speeches and extensive remarks, read many of the transcripts of their statements in The New York Times and Washington Post - and done my best to examine their records - I am squarely in Hillary Clinton’s corner. My scrutiny includes not just the intellectual process of examination, but an intuitive take on who Senator Clinton is as a person and a candidate.
I genuinely believe that when she is in touch with her authentic self, and not too much in the throes of her advisors, or even her husband, Hillary comes up as the best choice for President.
First, she has set an outstanding record of accomplishment as United States Senator, serving the people of New York with distinction, and she has shown a first-rate ability to work with both Democrats and Republicans on key issues. Senator Clinton doesn’t just talk about working together, and bringing opposite sides together - she’s DONE it!
Second, as First Lady, she was an active Ambassador of Goodwill on behalf of the President to all parts of the world, and she was a staunch advocate of women’s rights - as well as Civil and Human Rights. She was, as we all know, a passionate pioneer in advancing the cause of Universal Health coverage. She did not succeed the first time around, but she learned many lessons and she is poised to succeed as President. She is passionate about the causes she believes in, she is a fighter, and she does not give up. She deserves points for her record of accomplishment, and her passion and steadfastness shows character and strength. We need a President who evidences these qualities.
In international affairs, I believe Senator Clinton will chart the best course for the United States. She is much more aware of the dangers inherent in Islamic extremism and fascism, and she will act with care and circumspection before sitting down with America’s enemies. I believe she will attempt to open doors, but she will not act brashly, and she will not underestimate the intentions of people who are unimpressed with softness, and who are more likely to manipulate us and undermine us based on naivete. She would certainly NOT be another Chamberlain making peace with Hitler!
Mrs. Clinton is very intelligent. She is tough. She is for the people, and for advancing the Global community and the less developed nations - but she is a “street smart” person who will not compromise America in any way with crafty people who don’t respect our system or our rights.
I believe she would be a more capable President than Senator Obama. I am moved by his inspirational pronouncements, his desire to bring us together - but I do NOT believe he has a handle or the experience on how to work with adversaries - both domestic and international. I do NOT believe that in this very treacherous time, Senator Obama would have the strength to maneuver through the tough times that are undoubtedly ahead.
On Iraq, I believe that Senator Clinton’s intentions were understandable in taking the vote she did at the time, based on intelligence of WMD that was only later proved faulty, and in the context of the aftermath of 9-11 which had occurred only recently before. Her INTENTION was to protect America, and while I do not believe that she would have invaded Iraq if she had been President, I believe that as Senator she signed on in order to reserve the right to protect our country. As a precautionary measure, I believe Senator Clinton acted honorably.
I was against the invasion of Iraq. Sadam was an enemy of Iran and while he was a rascal and potentially dangerous, he was the “check” against Iranian Middle Eastern intervention. Having said that, I can look at Senator Clinton’s vote with respect, especially in consideration of her intentions. But now, we must look at the situation as it presently exists; and I do think that a precipitous and immediate withdrawal would be ill-advised. Our focus must be on strengthening the Iraqi Army but withdrawing ever-so carefully until we can turn over full reigns to them. I also think Senator Clinton, while she has declared the need to withdraw, will do so but do so carefully and gradually.
I firmly believe that Senator Hillary Clinton can make a great President. My vote is for her. One last consideration - a consideration that is not primary - is that it’s time to elect a strong leader who is also a woman. Women, and America’s girls - deserve that kind of role modeling and encouragement.
Lastly, the Democrat voters of Michigan and Florida must not be disenfranchised. Michigan, which did not have Obama on the ballot, must arrange for a new Primary; and Florida’s delegates should either be seated, or a new Primary should move forward there as well.
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