A Short History of ‘Cut and Run,’ Using the George W. Bush Definition

A Short History of ‘Cut and Run,’ Using the George W. Bush Definition

A Short History of ‘Cut and Run,’ Using the George W. Bush Definition

From ‘Nam to Lebanon, the Gulf War and, um, Texas.

Facebook
Twitter
Email
Flipboard
Pocket

When you pull out before the job is done, that’s "cut and run" as far as I’m concerned.
–George W. Bush, on whether he’s fairly characterized the Democratic position

 

1. Vietnam

 

We’d been well mired in a quag.
Our allies there were not too strong,
But Nixon left them to themselves,
And they were swamped by Vietcong.

That’s cut and run. Yes, cut and run:
We left before the job was done,
And let Saigon get overrun–
A simple case of cut and run.

 

2. Lebanon

 

Marines were there to keep the peace.
Before their mission was complete,
There came an awful barracks blast,
And Reagan pulled them out tout de suite.

That’s cut and run. Yes, cut and run:
We left before the job was done–
No matter how the news was spun,
A simple case of cut and run.

 

3. Gulf War

 

We could have gone to Baghdad, but
The role Bush One said we’d then fill
Was hated occupying force.
He was, of course, correct, but still…

That’s cut and run. Yes, cut and run:
We left before the job was done.
Saddam had fun because Bush One
Did not remain but cut and run.

 

4. Texas

 

If sent to Nam, you might get killed.
Young Bush, to dodge his draft board’s "Greetings!"
Used Daddy’s clout to join the Guard,
And then finessed a year of meetings.

Talk about your cutting and running!

Thank you for reading The Nation!

We hope you enjoyed the story you just read. It’s just one of many examples of incisive, deeply-reported journalism we publish—journalism that shifts the needle on important issues, uncovers malfeasance and corruption, and uplifts voices and perspectives that often go unheard in mainstream media. For nearly 160 years, The Nation has spoken truth to power and shone a light on issues that would otherwise be swept under the rug.

In a critical election year as well as a time of media austerity, independent journalism needs your continued support. The best way to do this is with a recurring donation. This month, we are asking readers like you who value truth and democracy to step up and support The Nation with a monthly contribution. We call these monthly donors Sustainers, a small but mighty group of supporters who ensure our team of writers, editors, and fact-checkers have the resources they need to report on breaking news, investigative feature stories that often take weeks or months to report, and much more.

There’s a lot to talk about in the coming months, from the presidential election and Supreme Court battles to the fight for bodily autonomy. We’ll cover all these issues and more, but this is only made possible with support from sustaining donors. Donate today—any amount you can spare each month is appreciated, even just the price of a cup of coffee.

The Nation does not bow to the interests of a corporate owner or advertisers—we answer only to readers like you who make our work possible. Set up a recurring donation today and ensure we can continue to hold the powerful accountable.

Thank you for your generosity.

Ad Policy
x