Im sorry that you take offense at it, but I equally take offense at the fact that "freedom of speech" and/or tolerance has let so many of these people remain in the State department. I take offense when I see a State Department official personally tell a member of a foreign government that "we need to do everything in our power to see that Bush is stopped"
How long have you been out of the State Department? Did you not know that it is apparently considered some sort of 'badge of honor' if you personally have a higher cause than our nation's President?
The lead up to the War in Iraq saw many who decided to come out of the closet and profess their hatred for George Bush - How do you think this was received overseas? How many of these people were scooped up by foreign powers to do their bidding?
I can assure you Kabar that I know very well what I am talking about. This very subject has been a pain in my side for a long time.
When you state that, "Our country's own State Department is packed full of spies - I would not be surprised if the number was at least 5% or more. That is how bad it is." without any proof or basis in fact, then those allegations are indeed baseless. Spies? Do you understand what that that word means?
Im sorry that you take offense at it, but I equally take offense at the fact that "freedom of speech" and/or tolerance has let so many of these people remain in the State department.
You make these blanket charges without any facts. "So many?" How many are you talking about? More than the 5% who are spies? You are talking about hundreds of personnel who are alleged traitors.
I take offense when I see a State Department official personally tell a member of a foreign government that "we need to do everything in our power to see that Bush is stopped"
If that is indeed the case, I would personally report that to the Secretary of State and the Ambassador providing the name of the official, date, time, and place. This offical represents the United States and its official views. He/she should be held accoutable.
The lead up to the War in Iraq saw many who decided to come out of the closet and profess their hatred for George Bush - How do you think this was received overseas?
A few resigned, with one in Greece being the one I remember. A number of others combined with some former military officers to rail against the war. The British formed a similar group of former diplomats and military officers protesting the war. Kerry trotted out a number of former flag officers at the Dem convention. Although I don't agree with such politicization of the foreign service and the military, they are citizens who are free to express their personal opinions.
How long have you been out of the State Department? Did you not know that it is apparently considered some sort of 'badge of honor' if you personally have a higher cause than our nation's President?
I retired five years ago. I don't accept your characterization. Internally, the State Department has a dissent channel, which permits personnel to express their differing views on policy issues. Annually, you can count the number of dissent cables on one hand. The State Department is a bureaucracy. Anyone running around publicly expressing their views against the President would have the mark of Cain vice a badge of honor, unless your name was General Colin Powell.
I can assure you Kabar that I know very well what I am talking about. This very subject has been a pain in my side for a long time.
Your ignorance is exceeded only by your arrogance. You have the temerity to tell someone (me) who has worked in the State Department nearly 30 years how the organization works, who works in it, and that at least 5% are spies. What are your bona fides to make such comments? Did you meet a few foreign service officers at a cocktail party? Or get Embassy assistance for business purposes? I reiterate, you don't know sh** from shinola.