How many times have I made the point that the White House - and the leaders of the Republican Party - are not conservative? I know - too many. But the Congressional vote to intervene in the Schiavo case reminds me just how un-conservative these folks are,
This was the federal government overrulling the state. Like when the Supreme Court elected George W. Bush by stomping on Florida's rights. Conservatives would have respected federalism and states' rights in both cases.
I understand, though, how irresistible the action was. Imagine House GOP "exterminator" Tom DeLay, taking all kinds of heat, even some from Republicans, and facing - maybe - indictment from a Texas DA on criminal charges. How wonderful to change the subject. Even better, to change it to an issue of human compassion and right to life!
Mind you, he was but one of hundreds of politicians choosing to play doctor or religious authorit where common decency demanded only passivity.
But my point deserves repitition - the press's failure to accurately describe conservatism biases the public dialogue in favor of the rightist radicals in charge.
PS Rep. Tom Udall, who missed the vote, used the episode to remind people to execute a living will. Good point.
PPS The phrase "right to life" reminds me - according to former Governor David Cargo, a Roman Catholic, it is Church doctrine that it's wrong to use artificial means to prolong life.
Posted by Arthur Alpert at March 21, 2005 09:11 AM