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Michael B. Mukasey; Will Justice Be Served?

Bush Announces New Attorney General

copyright © 2007 Betsy L. Angert. BeThink.org

On this auspicious occasion, the nominee for America's Attorney General is announced, I cannot help but notice the lack of enthusiasm in the voice of the President of the United States. As the George W. Bush introduced Michael B. Mukasey, it was obvious, he felt no connection to the man he met for the first time only weeks ago.

George W. Bush solemnly noted with little passion the "remarkable" record of the man that stood before him and the nation. Expressionless, the President apathetically proclaimed the Judge brings impressive credentials to the office of Attorney General. Mister Bush selected a candidate that was able to assure allies and appease foes.

Bush Cuts Funds For Troops. Is Veto Victory?

© copyright 2007 Betsy L. Angert

Murtha Slams Bush for Veto Threat
Please pardon the obligatory commercial prologue. Bush Renews Veto Threat

Dear President George W. Bush . . .

I was among the Americans willing to settle for some semblance of support for the troops. I was willing to say bring them home months from now; although it seems to me a time in 2008 is more than a year. Nevertheless, I called my Congressman and said please sign on to the silly Bill, the one setting an absurd and somewhat arbitrary time for bring the soldiers home. However, in each of my conversations with Congressional Aides, I added my truer feelings. I want the funds cut! It seems that now, you do as well.

Bush; 'I'm "Trainable" and the Decision-maker' on Iraq Troop Levels

© copyright Betsy L. Angert

Please preview the press conference. Pardon the obligatory advertisement. Bush: 'I'm The Decision-Maker'

Today, President Bush meeting with his new top commander in Iraq, General David Petraeus, and the press bought back memories. As I listened to George W. Bush speak on Iraq, I was reminded of my youth. The once self-proclaimed "decider" explained he is "the decision maker."

President Bush Meets The Press; Oops, It's Tony Snow ©

This week, within a two-day period, we the American people had the privilege of hearing President George W. Bush twice. On Sunday, January 14, 2007, the President spoke with CBS News, Journalist, Scott Pelley. The two casually walked through the woods at Camp David. The, sat face-to-face and chatted. Pelley posed poignant questions. The men met with families of the fallen soldiers, and Mister Bush explained his surge strategy to the troops while with Pelley.

Despite or perhaps because of national disfavor and "condemnation on Capitol Hill," President George W. Bush met with the press. Characteristically, in years past when times were tough the President hid from the press. That posture seemed to be effective. Now it seems, such a stance has proven itself to be ineffective. Perhaps that is why W. is changing his course. Possibly poor planning in the past forced Mister Bush to reassess. Perchance he decided it would be wise to meet with the media now. It could not hurt, or could it.

Days later, on Tuesday, January 16, America was given another chance to assess. The President, again sat for the cameras. This time he appeared on Public Broadcasting, Nightly News Hour.

Bush Believes, Bellows, Boasts, Bows, Perhaps Blind-Sides ©

I vigorously took notes as I listened intently. I typed quickly; I apologize for any inaccuracies. I hope I captured the essence.

Please feel free to correct my errors in your comments. I invite you to discuss the Presidential Press Conference on this December 20, 2006.

I thank you for your continued commitment to the health and happiness of America and Americans.

The President begins with his beliefs.

"I believe the mission is tough. I know what I am asking them to do is going to be accomplished."
"I believe we are going to win."
"We are going to succeed."
"Our enemy cannot rush us out. They cannot intimidate America!"

On surge . . .

"I haven’t made up my mind yet about more troops.’’
“Hypothetical questions – I’m not going to answer those today . . ."
"I will tell you, we are looking at all options, and one of those options is . . . more troops."
"I am willing to follow a path that leads to victory"

[regardless of what the are American people favor.]

"Of course, I want public opinion to support the path. I understand that."

[However . . .]

Bush Bellows, "It's Bad In Iraq! [Does that help?]" ©

Please View the Video.  Bush declares, "I understand."  Pardon the Prologue Commercial.  Bush; "It's Bad In Iraq!"

President Bush repeatedly tells us he understands.  He understands that we, as a nation, have a responsibility to lead.  Mr. Bush believes that he as a man must guide his "broad" coalition, regardless of its size.  The alliance consists mostly of one country, the United Kingdom.  Bush tells, his citizens that there is  a job to "do" and some his job is to make war in the name of peace.

Prime Minister Blair and I understand that we have a responsibility to lead and to support moderates and reformers who work for change across the broader Middle East.

We also recognize that meeting this responsibility requires action.  It will take concerted efforts to advance the cause of peace in the Middle East.

We stand together because we understand the only way to secure a lasting peace for our children and grandchildren is to defeat the extremist ideologies and help the ideology of hope and democracy prevail.

King George W. understands "peace" and how important this prospect is for our children and grandchildren.  Does he understand that if "defeat" is part of your vocabulary than peace is not what you are proposing?  Tranquility is the understanding that comes with talk.  Calm, caring conversation gives birth to peace.

Bush. Rice. The “Root Causes” of War. ©

Twenty-seven long and bloody days have passed. Early on there were calls for help. People, pundits, and political leaders were requesting America assist with negotiations. They stated someone must stop the fighting. Many thought only the world’s singular superpower could do it. However, the Bush Administration declared the time was not right. Thus, they waited.

America allowed its friend and ally Israel to pummel the Lebanese countryside. Thus far, 700,000 people have been displaced within Lebanon. Women and children are killed day after day; and all Bush can say is “Hezbollah is to blame.” Hezbollah captured two Israeli soldiers and had they not done so Lebanon and Israel would be at peace, or so is the world according to the Shrub.

President Bush, Prime Minister Blair Come To Visit, Converse With Me ©

All words attributed to George W. Bush are his. He said these at his Thursday night, May 25, 2006, press conference.
Possibly, you, as I, look forward to our meetings with the President, infrequent as they are. Perhaps, that is why we treasure them so. These conferences are rare, though, nevertheless, a treat. When President George W. Bush asks Prime Minister Tony Blair to accompany him, well that is truly a delight. I am overjoyed. I revel in these exchanges. I can hardly wait to invite the two in my parlor for a chat. This Thursday night was such an occasion.

While the hour was late in London, and therefore, few Englishmen and women would be able to join us, I acknowledged that I was fortunate. Two men of such great stature, power, and fame [infamy] were coming to visit me. We would gather in my living room. They stated earlier that they were ready, willing, and of course able to discuss politics, particularly the Iraqi war. This was such a dream come true.

I invited each of my guests to speak first. I requested they share their points of view; I would listen, and then discuss. Blair spoke some, though his words were not as poignant as those of the President. Mr. Bush has a style and finesse that is engaging, thus, he and I conversed.