State of the Union

www.RightViews.com ^ | 2/2/05 | OJ

[Johannesson]

Anyone that was hoping for a lame-duck second term by President Bush was treated to a rude awakening during tonight's State of the Union address. The President has a clear policy agenda that he wants to accomplish and he clearly determined the political topics for the next two years. Whether the Democrats agree or not, they will agree or disagree with the President's agenda – not anyone else's agenda.

Most of America is currently discussing the lengths to which President Bush went in outlining his ideas on social security reform. Granted, social security reform is imperative. However, from the President's political history as governor of Texas, and further evident when negotiating the tax cuts, it is obvious that the administration intentionally sets out aggressive agendas with ambitious goals. This point becomes the starting place from where the President can negotiate. The tough rhetoric you heard tonight on Social Security is probably not the version that will eventually pass. I think the Democrats are getting duped into taking on a fight where the President can gain significant political capital while appearing to achieve his agenda. This is Karl Rove at his finest.

The very emotional portion of the address which dealt with democracy and the spread of freedom was nicely crafted and invoked a sense of purpose and pride - not just for Americans but in many far reaching places of the world. There were some specific sections of the foreign policy section which I find important.

First, it may be a minor detail, but Zarqawi was mentioned by name, while Bin Laden was not. I find that

[An Old Marine]

I don't think that there is much confusion in Paris, London, Berlin or even Teheran what the President means.

Yohoo boys! Can you hear me now? If not I have some guys that can help you with your hearing.