Sen. Rockefeller: Iraq Democracy is "Pipe Dream" and Not Desirable; They Can't Handle It

Sunday News-Register (Wheeling, WV) | April 13, 2003 | Justin Anderson

[Timmy]

"The idea of democracy in Iraq is a pipe dream," he said. "Iraq has never been a democracy. One of America's problems is that we are focusing on Saddam and not what is the country of Iraq. We tend to focus on individuals. . ."

"(Democracy) is not desirable at this point. The (Iraqi) people are not ready for a democracy."

These are the comments you are defending. I stated that liberals (like Rockefeller) figure tyranny is fine for other people. If you stepped in and supported them by mistake, then OK, and let's drop it. However, if you feel the same way, then I stand by everything I said. I don't believe that makes me Sharpton-like. However, you can believe what you wish.

[mountaineer]

"Drop of a hat" was your phrase; I merely reused it. No offense intended.

[Captain Kirk]

Alright....I agree that you can make a case that some of Rockefeller's comments about democracy not being desirable were "racist" though the term I would use is elitist. His other points were more or less valid or at least reasonable. I guess I see red whenever the "r-word" is used (since its overuse has really ruined much of our society) that I am too quick on the draw to condem sometimes.

[Timmy]

I guess we agree, then. "Elitist" is racist when used like this, just as it is when supporting affirmative action as practiced today (blacks and hispanics CAN'T compete with whites or asians) or attacking southerners. It's time we start calling these people on these things.

[Frumious Bandersnatch]

"I really don't know how much (Bush) knows about the country," Rockefeller said. "I've read books on it and otherwise researched it. I think that's pretty much what youhave to do to begin to understand a culture. It's not just a question of where your tanks go."

Ah, but have you been there Senator?