The Blog Formerly Known As Vote '08

What is fascism? Wikipedia defines it as “totalitarian & nationalist ideology.” We fought World War II to defeat it. But we need constant vigilance to make sure it doesn’t surface in this country.

Unfortunately, we’re taking steps towards fascism when we see these kinds of remarks:

Above: John McCain in Pennsylvania yesterday, saying “Western Pennsylvania is the most patriotic, most God-loving, most patriotic part of America…”

Above: Sarah Palin in Greensboro, North Carolina last week talking about how she enjoys campaigning in the “pro-America parts of the nation.” (she’s since apologized)

Above: McCain adviser Nancy Pfotenhauer this week, talking about how “real Virginia” - as opposed to “northern Virginia” - will go for McCain.

Above: Minnesota Congresswoman Michelle Bachman last week, characterizing liberals’ views as “anti-American.” (She’s since said she “made a misstatement.”)

Above: North Carolina Congressman Robin Hayes this week, saying “Liberals hate real Americans that work & accomplish & achieve & believe in God.”

I would add to the definition of fascism by saying it’s “when a person is more concerned with the patriotism of others than with their own.”

We’ve seen far too much of this on the campaign trail.

Imagine if Barack Obama, speaking in downtown Chicago, called the supporters in front of him “the REAL Americans.” Would you stand for that? I would hope not.

We as Americans are all one people, united in our diversity.

It is the differences in our views that makes this country the greatest in the world.

It does nothing but damage this great country for you to impugn the patriotism of others simply because their views don’t share your own.

Yes, that means it’s an imperfect system, but it also one that was borne of genius.

The Republican party, a party with a tradition steeped in ideas & careful, considerate thought, has suffered in the past 8 years under the tutelage of President George W. Bush, who won a narrow electoral victory both times he was elected but proceeded to govern as if he won with 75% of the vote. He literally ignored 50% of the country, with the rhetoric (both domestic & international) of “you’re either with us or against us.” Anyone who disagreed with his policies had their patriotism questioned.

Listen to Britney Spears, shortly after the Iraq war began:

Wrong answer, Britney. If you ever felt this way in the past 8 years about President Bush, think for a moment how you would feel if this was said by someone during an Obama administration.

America has a long tradition (going straight back to its birth) of questioning those with power, regardless of who that is.

All of us have a place at the table.

Every one of us.

& that includes -especially includes- those whose views about where to take this country are the opposite of yours.

Let’s try to remember that. OK?

p.s. you, as an American, have every right to disagree with this commentary, & you are welcome to share your thoughts in the comment section.

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