A Common Sense Approach to Foreign Policy That Both Candidates Miss

Forbes ^ | 10/23/2012 | Bill Flax

[billflax]

“The great rule of conduct for us, in regard to foreign nations, is, in extending our commercial relations, to have with them as little political connexion as possible.” – George Washington

The last debate established that both parties miss the obvious. Mitt Romney and Barack Obama nibbled around the edges, largely agreeing. They reduced foreign policy to being compassionate about “gender equality” while trying to talk tough. Both would do this and undo that, making promises they’ll never keep all while purporting fiscal responsibility.

Neither explained an underlying principle informing their decisions. Without such a compass, each seems inclined to react to symptoms. Romney at least articulated a vision for America as “the hope of the earth.” Obama praised America as the “one indisputable country,” but largely governs like we’re merely another member of the international community somewhere between Afghanistan and Zimbabwe.

[billflax]

Obama’s incessant apologies must cease. Weakness invites attack, interfering with others invites hostility, but trade fosters friendship.

[Red_Devil 232]

We must be ruthless with our adversaries! Don’t let them ever think we will act any differently!

[rmlew]

Romney and Obama agree on far too much. Say what you will about Bachmann, but she would have at least hit Obama on real issues like our treasonous support for Al Qaeda and its parent the Muslim Brotherhood in the Democracy Jihad.

[billflax]

Yep