September 29, 2004 6:05 AM

You know, this didn't start on 9.11.01

It begins with an ominous photo of men bearing undeniably evil intent. Then the voiceover, couched in a tone that leaves no doubt of the intended gravity: THESE PEOPLE WANT TO KILL US…. By the end of the commercial, John Kerry has been painted as a terrorist’s best friend. What is unconscionable about this is that this collection of lies, innuendo, and unfounded character assassination is passed off as Gospel.

The Bush campaign and their attack dogs act as if the terrorist threat against this country began on 9.11 (in fact, the Bush White House ignored the clues that were available), and that they are the last remaining obstacles between America and complete, unchecked terrorist murder and mayhem. The reality could hardly be farther from the truth, though 9.11 does provide a graphic symbol for Republicans to rally the forces of fear and ignorance.

A careful examination of the historical facts would easily reveal that the terrorist threat against the US did NOT begin with the 9.11 attacks. Just off the top of my head, I can think of the attack on the USS Cole in Yemen, Oklahoma City, the African embassy bombings, and the 1983 Marine barracks bombing in Lebanon. There are, of course, numerous other examples available, which even a bare minimum of research would reveal. Why, then, are Republicans acting as if The World As We Knew It came to an end on 9.11.01?

Why? Because they know that it is very possible and surprisingly easy to terrorize Americans into thinking that a vote for John Kerry is a de facto vote for Osama bin Laden and the al Qaeda network. The sad reality is that most Americans are sheep, and are easily and willingly led to wherever those who would frighten them the most would lead them. Republicans employ these tactics, however shameless they may be, because THEY WORK. So much for raising the level of political debate. After all, it really is all about winning.

WE DESERVE BETTER.

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This page contains a single entry by Jack Cluth published on September 29, 2004 6:05 AM.

Gee, whodathunkit? was the previous entry in this blog.

Do you think they know something the rest of America doesn't? is the next entry in this blog.

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