Du'ers around the world

[wiggs]

Unfortunately, bringing up the fact that the rest of the world is against what we are doing just proves to the RW that we are on the right track here with BushCo. But how we are perceived in other countries is/should be important in terms of fighting terrorism, economic alliances, military alliances, etc.. This will be even more true as emerging superpower China begins to throw its weight around.

I am reminded of Ambassador Keisling's resignation letter in which he talks of squandering good will in the world, previously valued by other administrations for decades.

When Kerry mentioned that some world leaders were hoping for a change from Bush, he was pilloried for weeks. So I wonder what percentage of American voters a) care about what the rest of the world thinks, and b) know what the rest of the world thinks.

What are the experiences of those DU'ers who live or travel in other parts of the world? What are people saying there? How are news outlets framing the election discussion and Iraq?

I can offer the following:

MEXICO: Was there all over this summer. Almost no chatter. Don't appear to follow issues closely. Have their own election and issues to worry about. No resentment of Americans was apparent.

EUROPE: Have a friend who travels extensively there in the business community. Administration perceived as arrogant, reckless. Significant resentment of Americans is there, under the surface, especially by Spain, Germany, Italians, France.

HONG KONG: Brother lives there. Not too much discussion going on. America perceived as goofballs, crazy.

AUSTRALIA: From friends doing business there, a lot of support for America generally, including the administration.

[Screaming Lord Byron]

1. I can't believe that about Australia.

I always thought Australia was supposed to be the cool kid of the old colonies. What went wrong! ;-)