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Brilliance does not always equal "vision."

Exactly, LS. I have a great deal of respect for Buckley, and have for as many years as I can remember.

But that doesn't make him right on this one. The broad vision of this speech is breathtaking. The fact that Buckley self-admits that he's confused about this speech, tells you all you need to know.

He's brilliant, but he just doesn't "get" this one. Fortunately, we have a President who does, and because of that, we will have a world that is more democratic and free four years from now, just as it is more democratic and free than it was four years ago.

When I headed out for Ph.D. graduate school with an MA in hand, I got a full ride to Claremont. Even though I was a historian, I wanted to do political history with Harry Jaffa on my committee. However, a small voice told me to go over to California first and MEET with my committee.

I met Jaffa, had lunch with him, and in 45 minutes he either a) only talked about himself or b) was completely incomprehensible. I truly mean that. I'm no genius, but I'm not a dolt, and I couldn't fathom a word the man said. Then I met the historians at Claremont, and they were total jerks. I politely handed back all their money and went to U.Cal. Santa Barbara.

Jaffa is so smart he needs a translator.