A letter from the editor

0 Comments | Insight on the News, August 5, 2002 | by Paul M. Rodriguez

Dear Readers,

As surely as that light at the end of the tunnel is attached to the front of an oncoming train, it ain't paranoia when you are being cautious because someone really is out to get you.

What brings this to mind, in the ongoing gladiatorial circus parade in Washington, is an odd fracture of political thinking now afoot. Because it's an election year, partisans and sword-swallowers of every sort are sharpening their long knives--particularly Democrats--hoping to slash and slice opponents for fun and profit. Take those ridiculous attempts to draw blood from George W. Bush over 20-year-old business loans he obtained from Harken Energy Co. when he sat on its board. Apparently some Democrats think the bile still foaming from Bill Clinton's scandals and lax policies only can be sated by spitting on the current president.

Then there's the partisan squabbling over America's security, involving both homeland defense and the efforts to safeguard civil liberties while properly protecting our nation. In both cases, it behooves "leaders" to recall the not-so-distant past when their rush to bitter political rhetoric led quickly to unwise policy changes. Unintended consequences frequently occur when clear thinking is clouded during the heat of discourse. Our lawmakers must remember they are elected and paid to do better and be better.

Even in a time of war, we must speak freely, but political speech now needs to have a purpose for the common good, and that's what the people want. Kelly P. O'Meara's cover story on the resurgence of Elvis helps explain a clear mood in this country (and the world over). Post 9/11, amid changes such as those reported by J. Michael Waller, "we" have taken inventory and are comforting ourselves with traditional values.

There's more food for thought inside, so read carefully. Be informed. It's the only way to win wars--political or otherwise. Lives depend on it.

Until next week then, God bless. Paul M. Rodriguez