Senator Hagel
The New York Times Magazine, in an extensive profile on Nebraska Senator Chuck Hagel, provides this prescient quote from a Hagel speech on the floor of the Senate during the build-up to the Iraq War:
"How many of us really know and understand Iraq, its country, history, people and role in the Arab world?. . .The American people must be told of the long-term commitment, risk and cost of this undertaking. We should not be seduced by the expectations of dancing in the streets."
Hagel, who is widely believed to be considering a bid for the White House in 2008 has been a rare critic of George Bush on Capitol Hill. He has strongly questioned Bush and forcefully disagreed with Bush on may occasions, especially Iraq in the last few years. This sets him apart from most other Republicans and about half of the Democrats.
His lack of loyalty to Bush may hurt him in 08 since it looks like Sen. McCain has done everything he can to buddy up to Bush and court Bush voters (who love Bush and never bother to question his competence/honesty/etc.).
Senator Hagel may find a home among moderates and independents (once McCain’s strongest territory) who admire the convictions and sentiments Hagel put forth in that Senate speech. Unfortunately, Hagel voted for the war after all was said and done.
"How many of us really know and understand Iraq, its country, history, people and role in the Arab world?. . .The American people must be told of the long-term commitment, risk and cost of this undertaking. We should not be seduced by the expectations of dancing in the streets."
Hagel, who is widely believed to be considering a bid for the White House in 2008 has been a rare critic of George Bush on Capitol Hill. He has strongly questioned Bush and forcefully disagreed with Bush on may occasions, especially Iraq in the last few years. This sets him apart from most other Republicans and about half of the Democrats.
His lack of loyalty to Bush may hurt him in 08 since it looks like Sen. McCain has done everything he can to buddy up to Bush and court Bush voters (who love Bush and never bother to question his competence/honesty/etc.).
Senator Hagel may find a home among moderates and independents (once McCain’s strongest territory) who admire the convictions and sentiments Hagel put forth in that Senate speech. Unfortunately, Hagel voted for the war after all was said and done.
posted by Steve Trumbull | 2/13/2006
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