17 Years and Counting

During the President Clinton’s administration 17 years ago, Republicans in Congress shut down the federal government rather than admit Clinton was correct. They hammered away at Clinton even before he was nominated to run for the office, then when he was nominated, they hounded him. Once elected they vowed to get him.

Continual verbal attacks, lack of cooperation in the halls of congress, and terrible intrusions in the personal life of the Clinton family, the Republicans continued their reign of terror by constantly suing the President, first as President, then as a private citizen. Legal bills mounted enormously. Eight million dollars, then 10 million, past 15 million and then 16 million. Dollars. And the toll probably went even higher.

The Clinton's were near bankruptcy. Then their two terms ended and two books were written. Legal debts were soon paid off from publishing advances and royalties. Then too there were many millions of people who donated money to the Clinton's to pay off the legal bills.

In the end two things happened: The Clinton's were restored to political and financial health; and the Republicans were disgraced.

One would have thought Republicans would have learned their lesson. But no! Now their wrath and ugly stalking is targeted on the Obama family. They will not rest until they are gone and debased. Problem is, the Obama’s are fine, holding up well, and the only damaged goods on the stage remain firmly with the Republicans.

One of these days the Party of Lincoln will shrug off the managers of political ignominy. At the very least, the capital R will fall to lower case, forever to be known as republicans.

Americans have a finely honed sense of honor and justice. They don’t always arrive at the conclusion early enough, but eventually they do. Clinton was judged a worthy president. Even an historical president. His administration was smart, savvy and intellectually keen. His administration managed the short term issues but kept their eye on long term concerns. For the most part the long term interests of the nation were handled very well. Future generations will thank his presidency one day.

Then came the debacle of the George W. Bush presidency: Two wars; terror on our soil; disintegration of the American foreign service machinery; and near destruction of the economy as rich people were granted tax cuts, the middle class were forced to bear the burden of government, and corporations were admitted freely to the halls of congress.

To repair the enormous damage done to the nation Barack Obama was elected. He has survived two elections to office. He has weathered the withering attacks from republicans, and he has charted new pathways to peace on a global basis. In spite of a crippled economy he has shared wealth throughout most international economies. His vision of global peace embraces a global economy. His intellectual gifts continue to embarrass the weaknesses of republicans.

President Obama, like President Clinton, has been bullied and continues to be bullied. Instead of caving in, both men have stood their ground. They have reached out and protected others from bullying. And they continue to do the work of the nation without concern for their own reputation or well being.

It is now time for Americans in every neighborhood to stand up and be counted. Tell the republicans that it is time they responsibly contributed to the governance of our states and nation. Collaboration and inventiveness are required. The Democrats continue to participate. Only the republicans sit on the sidelines.

The government is shut down. Childhood pranks pour forth from republican offices in both houses of congress. They shame themselves. But mostly they shame our country.

Tell them it is time to stop the nonsense.

October 9, 2013