Abstract

Kerry: No W. (& No Bill)

The article looks at the differences between United States President George W. Bush and Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry for the 2004 election. A friend of mine reports listening to a radio station that caters to middle-class African-Americans and hearing repeatedly from hosts and callers that there is little difference between Bush and Kerry. It is a pity that some voters do not discern the Texas-size gap between these two candidates. It is important that Democrats and potential Kerry voters perceive him as more than an Anybody-but-Bush placeholder. And it is troubling that polls show Bush voters to be more committed to their man than Kerry voters are to theirs. Kerry can get lost in nuance, not a trait associated with strong leaders (though the country could use a leader who recognizes, let alone appreciates, nuances). On the Iraq war, Kerry voted to grant Bush authority to attack but called on him to try all other options and create a truly multilateral coalition before launching an invasion. Sure, it would be better for Democrats if their man charged up the voters. But Democratic primary voters anointed a fellow who reassures more than inspires.