I haven’t paid too much attention to the minutiae of the campaign, so minor flare-ups like Samantha Power calling Senator Clinton a “monster” don’t appear on my radar until others discuss it in more depth. Personally, I don’t think it’s a big deal, but I understand the political aspects. Truth is irrelevant in politics. As ridiculous as that is, it’s undeniable. Spin matters exclusively.
Remembering that helps, especially in the context of Ms. Power’s apology. Consider:
The key moment is at 1:30 in, I think. It speaks to what I’ve mentioned before in relating the opinion of others. Forget policy and think only of a libertarian’s preference in our present reality. Gridlock is key because neither party is much-interested in reducing the size or scope of government. There’s too much power to be bought from Americans with our own money.
Where Senators Clinton and McCain have experience in gaming the system to their advantage, Senator Obama appears to be the least experienced. It’s to some not-easily-identifiable percentage an act, because he couldn’t get as far as he’s gotten if he doesn’t know the rules, but knowledge of the rules alone does not make him effective at the game. To the extent that he relies on political rookies, he will have these setbacks. He will not get his agenda through the Congress. And with each successive loss for him, Congress will take its victory and play harder. This is ideal. If we’re lucky, it will create divided government in 2010.
Video link via Andrew Sullivan.