John McCain wrote a widely-praised op-ed that was published yesterday in the Washington Post. It started out this way:
President Obama gave a terrific speech Wednesday night. He movingly mourned and honored the victims of Saturday’s senseless atrocity outside Tucson, comforted and inspired the country, and encouraged those of us who have the privilege of serving America. He encouraged every American who participates in our political debates – whether we are on the left or right or in the media – to aspire to a more generous appreciation of one another and a more modest one of ourselves.
Very gracious. He goes on to argue that unfair to blame political discourse for the actions of a deranged individual. That’s true, but it’s legitimate to ask what effect the political discourse has on an unbalanced individual. It’s this part of the op-ed, though, that got the most attention:
I disagree with many of the president’s policies, but I believe he is a patriot sincerely intent on using his time in office to advance our country’s cause. I reject accusations that his policies and beliefs make him unworthy to lead America or opposed to its founding ideals. And I reject accusations that Americans who vigorously oppose his policies are less intelligent, compassionate or just than those who support them.
Have we gotten to the point that this:
I believe he is a patriot sincerely intent on using his time in office to advance our country’s cause
has even got to be written? THIS is what we’ve been complaining about. It shouldn’t be news that a Republican Senator thinks the president is trying to do his best for the country even if he doesn’t agree with his policies. That used to be assumed.
I do sense that things may turn around. There’s finally some glimmers of an economic recovery and the vitriol seems to be dialing down. John McCain’s contribution is welcome, even if it is 2 years too late.