herman said:
Johnny,
I have been on these boards for a number of years, though post more these days than I used to. It seems from your posting history you could be seen as politically to the right and at times too much an apologist for the GOP.
In recent months I have however detected a change of view, I would say a moderate leftward shift. If you don't mind me asking what was it that caused this? I read one of your posts which suggested it was the US govt response to Katrina- did you already have these doubts beforehand? Just wondering like.
I might be seen as being politically to the right, but what I am, is someone who reacts to events. I'm not flogging any doctrine.
My reactions to 911 were broadly similar to some of those in the US govt, and also similar to those of many north americans. To that extent, I would defend the actions of the US govt.
WRT Bush, prior to 911, I considered him at best a nonentity, at worst a flawed liability. After 911, I gave him the benefit of the doubt on some things, because he was the spearhead of the effort to try to re-secure North America.
My basic philosophy has always leaned toward libertarianism, and as much freedom for the individual as can be attained in a numerous and multifaceted society. Economically, I lean toward the capitalist model, but believe in a basic humanitarian safety net.
So, I didn't support George Bush because he was George Bush, or because he was a conservative; I supported him in some things because I agreed with the things he apparently wanted to do.
I didn't agree with him when it came to Katrina, and for me, it was the two ton straw that broke the camel's back.
I continue to support US military activism in the middle east, and the 'war on terror', but this particular president and his administration, imo, are flawed, inept, incompetent. What that means is that even if they decide to do the right things, they will do them badly. IMO, they can't be gone soon enough.
