Reply #9: The "Politically Expedient" Thing Is Bullsh*t [View All]

[DrFunkenstein]

Kerry had been articulately calling for the same course of action since 1997. Clinton agreed:

"The credible threat to use force, and when necessary, the actual use of force, is the surest way to contain Saddam's weapons of mass destruction program, curtail his aggression and prevent another Gulf War." - Clinton, 1998.

Kerry was clearly pissed at Gephardt for undermining Biden-Lugar (which Dean also supported), and was stuck with the choice between two options that did not reflect his thinking. He went for the one he felt was most responsible. I didn't agree with him, but I don't think it was "expediency." He is on the record as arguing that the vote should not be rushed before the election, that they should take their time and get it right. Unfortunately, it was not his call.