My respect for Kerry

Published on November 3, 2004 By IanTyger In Politics

I plan on expanding on this later, but I just watched Kerry's consession speech, and I realized that whatever else he may be, this man deserves my respect. Possibly in another time, with another world situation, he might even deserve my vote. But he managed to be graceful in defeat; which in politics is important.

Comments

InfoGeek

on Nov 03, 2004

I managed to see him on a rebroadcast of his testimony before Congress regarding Vietman. I did not agree with all that he was saying, but I was amazed at his tone, command of language and eloquence. It was interesting.

IG
.

Daiwa

on Nov 03, 2004

I'm actually mildly surprised he caved today. I didn't think Tubby Teddy would let him. I really thought they'd do all they could to delegitimize (from their perspective, you understand) Bush's victory as much as possible. Apparently the math was such that even their most creative spinners could find no way to craft a silk purse out of this sow's ear.

But I give him props for doing the right thing, for a change, and I think any "gloating" from Bush supporters is out of line. I think Kerry deserves our respect for pulling the plug without a pointless fight.

As for McAuliffe, Carvill, Kennedy and a few others, that's a different story - I'd love to tap dance all over their heads for awhile.

Cheers,
Daiwa

CraigAlan

on Nov 03, 2004

Daiwa,

I'm really glad you said that above. I voted Kerry and had this knot in my stomach waiting for the gloating to come. I am pleasantly surprised that there has been little to none. Mostly, a good number of Republicans seem a bit reflective at this moment, making comments about wondering how we heal the nation and such. I can admit that I was proven wrong about this whole ordeal, and formally say that I'm sorry for that.

IanTyger

on Nov 03, 2004

I won't be gloating. John-boys lead-ing speech was smarmy, snarky, and proves why he wasn't going to get a second term as senator. John Kerry's speech was statesmanlike. Simply no comparison.

(Likewise, I preferred Bush's speech to Cheney's immediatley afterwards.)

And I am grateful that Kerry does still have a place in the US government; despite some of the things I have thought previously. I don't agree with his politics, but his decorum is first-rate.

Darviathar

on Nov 03, 2004

Kerry is nothing if not canny. He fully realizes that (unlike Al Gore in 2000) that he still has a presitigious job, one that will keep him near the spotlight for four more years. By avoiding a repeat of the 2000 election, Kerry paints himself as a noble, dignified candidate. His senate career obviously continues, and I for one would not be shocked to see Kerry running in 2008.

IanTyger

on Nov 03, 2004

Neither would I. But he must face Senator Clinton and DLC.

IanTyger

on Nov 04, 2004

I mean, DNC

Welcome Guest! Please take the time to register with us.
There are many great features available to you once you register, including:

Richer content, access to many features that are disabled for guests like commenting on the forums.
Access to a great community, with a massive database of many, many areas of interest.
Access to contests & subscription offers like exclusive emails.
It's simple, and FREE!