Public opinion shows that the American public lacks confidence in the Democrats ability to handle issues relating to national security. In polls before the 2004 Presidential election, thirty six percent of Americans indicated that dealing with terrorism was their biggest concern. These voters heavily favored Bush and other Republican candidates. Democratic House Whip Steny Hoyer has a task force working to change perceptions that Democrats are weak on national defense and responding to terrorism. Conservative commentator Cal Thomas had a favorable column in Friday's Miami Herald on Democratic House Whip Steny Hoyer's national security vision project. From reading the Thomas column, one would think that the Scoop Jackson-Sam Nunn wing of the Democratic Party is coming back to life. I am not in complete agreement with the report concerning policy in Iraq, but think it otherwise points Democrats in the right direction concerning national security issues. If Democrats want to become the majority party again, it will be necessary to show that we support a strong national defense, securing our borders and taking the necessary actions to combat terrorism. Hoyer's national security vision document is a step toward restoring public trust in Democrats to protect America.
Link to Democratic Whip documenthttp://tinyurl.com/a98wr
Document: "Ensuring America's Strength and Security: A DemocraticNational Security Strategy for the 21st Century."Link to Cal Thomas columnhttp://tinyurl.com/a7eqt
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This is a good post. I agree that our Demoratic Party needs to be on more solid ground when it comes to national security.
Presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton hurt the military in many ways, because they did not show much respect for soldiers. And, they downsized in a way that demoralized the entire military structure.
During the Clinton years, I spoke to several Air Force and Army personnel. They had 15+ years active service and were medical personnel. They were told that they were not needed any longer. They were being ushered out. Gosh, this was bad policy
Even though President Bush has mis-managed the Iraqi War, he has been able to gain support from the military. Because, he shows them respect for their service.
Democrats need to address military concerns. It is obvious now that the our military will play a huge role in world affairs in the future and will need to be available to take a lead role in national disasters. So, it is important that Democrats develop solid military policies and reward our military personnel with better pay and benefits.
VA hospitals should provide better service and treatment. And, military retirement benefits should be increased. In addition, infantry and combat soldiers should be paid the same a policemen in America.
This is the way I see it. Take care.
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