Extremes

In 2008, those of us in the Center watched in dismay as the Democratic party rejected a moderate Center-Left politician (Hillary Clinton) for an ideologically far-Left candidate. Never mind that that candidate (Barack Obama) had absolutely no executive experience, no private sector experience, some very questionable associations, and few, if any, legislative accomplishments. He did however have charisma!

His empty hope-and-change narrative has done very little to solve the problems this country faces. In fact, many of us in the Center believe he has done much to exacerbate them.

Now, in 2011, we watch as the Republican party considers its candidates to unseat President Obama. We can only hope the Republicans don’t follow in the footsteps of the 2008 Democrats and select an ideologically extreme, inexperienced candidate. The early results are discouraging.

At the moment, we have seen Michele Bachmann gain a temporary advantage in the Iowa straw polls. Bachmann is about as inexperienced as Barack Obama was at the same point in time, and like the President, is ideologically extreme. She would not make a good candidate and would have little appeal for many in the Center. Then again, polls indicate that Barack Obama’s appeal for Centrists is sinking like a stone.

It is, of course, very early in the campaign, but James Taranto comments with his usual pithy humor:

Suppose Bachmann gets the nomination. She will be asking voters, in effect, to take a flier on a politically talented but inexperienced lawmaker with unusual religious views and a history of irresponsible statements. Last time they did that, they ended up with Barack Obama. This time, if they don't do it, they'll end up with Barack Obama.

I, for one, hope that neither result is the one the country has to live with.