I'm a leftist who is, in the big picture, strongly "Pro-American" & "Anti-Russian"

[Tom Rinaldo]

4. We probably agree on much

I've been in countless protests against the actions of my own government, both at home and abroad. And with the possible exception of responding to a few appeals from Amnesty International, I stay away from actively judging others (with an exception for genocide).

Everything is used as a weapon by those who seek dominance over others, democracy included. It is no magic cure to anything, nor can it be imposed on anyone. I guess I just believe that those fighting for freedom peace and justice have a few more tools to work with within societies where values consistent with democracy are at least somewhat rooted. I am in favor of defending and strengthening it where it exists, providing an example for governance that others can move toward if they wish.