The New York Times has an interesting article today about Rep. Harold Ford (D, Tenn) and his prospects of being elected the next Senator from Tennessee.
Ford is trying as hard as he can to run away from the liberal label. I’d love to see reporters and editorial writers and, later, the eventual Republican nominee who runs against him help him in this effort by asking him, repeatedly, the following question: “Rep. Ford, do you believe every American has the right to be treated without regard to his or her race?” (I frequently wonder why this simple but important question is never asked in press conferences, on the campaign trail, etc.)
If Ford answered “yes” and went on to win the election, it might send a message to other Democrats. If he answered “no” and lost, it might help straighten the backbone of the many Republicans who are afraid to touch this issue.
I can’t figure out why liberals keep wanting to run away from that label. I’m a conservative and don’t mind saying so.
“If Ford answered ‘yes’ and went on to win the election, it might send a message to other Democrats.”
John, you are way too optimistic, and more analytical than most folks. People are quite capable of wanting to see people treated without regard to race and wanting racial preferences for their group at one and the same time without seeing any contradiction whatever.
He will say it, and then ignore it.