David Broder of the Washington Post has been observing and reporting on the
political process for a very long time. During a live, online discussion held on September 2, 2004, David Broder responded to my question as follows:
San Juan Capistrano, Calif.: Is there any hope at all that, after the election, the strong partisan divide can be tempered and we can move forward with addressing the real issues such as the tragedy of the uninsured?
David S. Broder: There is some hope, but as long as the parties remain almost even in strength, the temptation will continue to ask, about every issue, “Does it help us or them?” Leadership of the right sort can set a tone and make a difference, but it is the severe competitiveness of the current situation that inflames the animosity.
http://discuss.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/zforum/04/broder090204.htm
The New York Times
September 2, 2004
Full Text of President Bush’s Remarks
“Many of our most fundamental systems – the tax code, health coverage, pension plans, worker training – were created for the world of yesterday, not tomorrow. We will transform these systems so that all citizens are equipped, prepared and thus truly free to make your own choices and pursue your own dreams.”
Comment: Apparently President Bush wants to sever the umbilical cord of solidarity. Is that the “leadership of the right sort” that we are seeking?