We make no pretense here about knowing much about domestic politics. It's not a subject I have ever covered, at least national races, and it does not play to my strengths. But from the experience I have had as a repoter in Bosnia and Kosovo, when I had the chance to meet General Clark, but more frequently to observe his work in action -- I am a deep admirer. He is the first politician I have ever been really excited about, who I believe represents my strongest political values, and I passionately hope by some miracle he wins. This is a leader who will know when and how to use not only military intervention but "soft power" and other tools to advance not just the most narrowly defined US national security interests, but a broader definition that includes what the Bush administration has so trampled on -- NATO, healthy relations with allies, and connecting human rights with a muscular foreign policy in a way I just don't trust Dean will.

So ... I can't help but be excited about the polls which suggest a tightening race in Iowa and New Hampshire, anything that portends that Clark may have a chance, including this.

If Clark doesn't show well - I would be far more comfortable voting for Kerry than for Dean. I am one of those outlyer people who vote primarily based on foreign policy - and Clark and Kerry have the foreign policy and national security credentials that Dean just doesn't have. I'm praying for Clark, who I really believe can save us from the mess we're in.

Posted by Laura at January 18, 2004 11:03 PM