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General Petraeus would no doubt be a formidable candidate, but we don't know what his constitutional views are, whether progressive, centrist, or conservative. As a conservative, I would have to know a lot more about him before jumping on his bandwagon. This article in the Telegraph (UK) is an interesting take on where we stand here in the US regarding our distrust for career politicians.
Excerpt: Americans have never been so disgusted with their politicians. More than three-quarters of Americans disapprove of Congress. President Barack Obama's favourability ratings have slumped to below 50 per cent and he is no longer trusted or believed by many who voted for him.
Republicans are faring little better and the growth of the Tea Party movement reflects the widespread disgust with Washington and the political class. Incumbents across the board are vulnerable in November's mid-term elections.
Many voters yearn for an outsider, someone with authenticity, integrity and proven accomplishment. Someone who has not spent their life plotting how to ascend the greasy pole, adjusting every utterance for maximum political advantage.
In this toxic climate, perhaps the only public institution that has increased in prestige in recent years is the American military. Its officers are looked upon, as General George Patton once noted, as "the modern representatives of the demi-gods and heroes of antiquity".
Where better to look for Obama's successor, therefore, than in the uniformed ranks? Not since 1952, when a certain Dwight Eisenhower, Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in Europe during the Second World War, was elected President, have the chances of a military man winning the White House been more propitious.
Read article here.
Open Thread
4 hours ago
Although many people may want to see him run, he has no interest in running for public office and has stated so many, many times on-the-record in both interviews and public events. He has a great deal of respect for those that seek to serve in that capacity, however, it is not something that he is interested in doing for himself. He has chosen to serve the nation in uniform and hopes to for whatever time he can.
ReplyDeleteMost likely some people are looking for leadership and see that quality within General Petraeus. Nothing wrong with that, but most people have no idea what he thinks about the various issues that either presidential candidates or President's themselves deal with. The public may or may not like where he stands on the issues, but doubtful they will be able to find out since he is not inclined to share those views.
It is difficult to find someone outside politics to run for President but that is where we should be looking. It would be a great balance for Congress.
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