Top Bush strategist praises Clinton (anything to bash Kerry)

[Cocoa]

big-time flip-flop for the Bush campaign:

http://progressivetrail.org/articles/040819Corn.shtml

<snip>

Of course, the GOPers didn’t fancy Harkin reminding folks that Cheney dodged the draft. In fact, the Bush campaign position now seems to be that draft-dodging is not at all inconsistent with being a fine leader. Last night on Hardball, Matthew Dowd, the chief strategist and pollster for the Bush-Cheney campaign, said, “I think it’s just outrageous that Tom Harkin, a surrogate for the Kerry campaign, would do it. Bill Clinton served the presidency with distinction without having served in Vietnam or in a war.”

<snip>

<But Bush said:>

“We have seen a steady erosion of American power and an unsteady exercise of American influence. Our military is low on parts, pay and morale. If called on by the commander-in-chief today, two entire divisions of the Army would have to report: Not ready for duty, sir. This administration had its moment. They had their chance. They have not led. We will….America’s armed forces need better equipment, better training, and better pay. We will give our military the means to keep the peace, and we will give it one thing more: a commander-in-chief who respects our men and women in uniform, and a commander-in-chief who earns their respect. “

<snip>

<and Cheney said:>

“For eight years, Clinton and Gore have extended our military commitments while depleting our military power. Rarely has so much been demanded of our armed forces, and so little given to them in return. George W. Bush and I are going to change that, too. I have seen our military at its finest, with the best equipment, the best training, and the best leadership. I’m proud of them. I have had the responsibility for their well-being. And I can promise them now, help is on the way. Soon, our men and women in uniform will once again have a commander in chief they can respect, one who understands their mission and restores their morale.”

But now, when the subject is national security and military matters, Dowd says Clinton served with distinction. Was he not paying attention in Philadelphia? Or is he willing to say anything that sounds good to score a political point–even if that entails praising the anti-Christ of the right?

[klook]

1. Oh, really? I thought Clinton was

a draft dodger, according to the GOP.

[librechik]

2. Hilarious irony:

"Rarely has so much been demanded of our armed forces, and so little given to them in return. George W. Bush and I are going to change that, too."

Yeah, they demanded more, much much more, and cut the benefits. Instant change.