Reply #156: I would hope that

[H2O Man]

you would be willing to provide us with some historic examples of the "serious risks and paltry benefits" that have been associated with what you define as a "failed impeachment." Once you do that, I think we could have an interesting discussion. It is unlikely that we will agree with one another any more than we already do -- which is not at all -- but it might be fun.

I know that you find my use of the historic teachings of great Americans like Malcolm and Martin upsetting. Two days ago, on another related thread, you said to another of our DU friends that I use them in a way that appears to make it seem that that disagreeing with me indicates disagreeing with Malcolm and Martin. I thank you for saying that, though I will show a difference in your attempted use of Al Gore.

I have great respect for Al Gore. One reason I invested as much time, energy, and money in the 92 and 96 elections was because I liked Gore, even more than Clinton. I supported him in 2000, though I felt he ran a poor campaign, and I felt that he was poorly represented in the legal contest that followed. Vince Bugliosi's book demonstrated what approach Gore's legal team should have taken.

As a result, Gore's finest speech from that period was when he accepted defeat. It was followed by the humiliating scene that is captured on the beginning of Michael Moore's film.

My respect for Gore has increased, as he has transformed into a mature leader in the years since that ugly period. And I am fully aware of what he has said about impeachment. Still, respectfully, I disagree with him. And I do so in full confidence that were he and I to discuss this, he would not feel compelled to resort to the name-calling that we find in your posts, such as this one that I am responding to. I can say in full confidence that Al Gore would be able to focus on the facts involved this administration, not shy away from the history of impeachment in our country, and share the respect for the Constitution that makes it possible to find common ground, even with those he disagrees with.