Saudi king calls for dialogue among different religions

Interreligious dialogue is key for global understanding and progress. This initiative by King Abdullah is a good step for the region.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/03/25/africa/ME-GEN-Saudi-Interfaith-Dialogue.php

Europe struggles to accommodate its growing Muslim minority

This is an issue that will plague European policy makers for years. The US should pay close attention.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/25/europe/letter.php?page=1

President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt visits Russia

The prospect of a Russian-hosted Mideast peace conference is intriguing.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/03/25/europe/EU-GEN-Russia-Egypt.php

The meaning of assurances given to Israel by European leaders

Support of Israel is paramount to a stable Middle East. European leaders must openly voice their opposition to terrorism and extremism.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/24/europe/politicus.php?page=1

A present for McCain as the other side fights

This is an excellent time for Sen. McCain to regroup his campaign and refocus on the general election.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/24/america/24caucus.php

The Democrats' Super Disaster

The Democratic party, which prides itself as the party of the common man, has turned its back on America's democratic tradition. Historically, it is interesting to note the parallels to previous elections (1824, notably). Too much is at stake to play with process and politics. The presidency is in the balance.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120631654451858227.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Democrats' Obama Dilemma

Robert D. Novak underscores the schism in the Democratic party. It is now up to the superdelegates.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/23/AR2008032301400.html?hpid=opinionsbox1

Both Obama And Clinton Embellish Their Roles

The Republican nominee, John McCain, need not engage in this. His Senate record proves his leadership and knowledge of the issues facing our country.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/23/AR2008032301706.html?hpid=topnews

Sarkozy’s bold European defence initiative

The French re-engagement in NATO is key for Atlanticism and the trilateral, historic relations among the US, UK and France.

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/6a66b7bc-f8e3-11dc-bcf3-000077b07658.html?nclick_check=1

McCain, Traveling Along a Tightrope

Though Sen. McCain is a member of the Republican Party, the same party of President George W. Bush, it is important to note that Sen. McCain's conservatism is much different than the current commander in chief. McCain brings experienced leadership, courageous patriotism and reliable decision-making to the presidential campaign, and ultimately to the White House.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/23/AR2008032301550.html?hpid=topnews

Saddam's Terror Links

Though weapons of mass destruction were never found, the threat Saddam Hussein and his ruthless regime posed was and remains a legitimate concern for America and her interests.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120631495290958169.html?mod=opinion_main_review_and_outlooks

After Putin

Sen. Joe Biden's commentary on how the US, and its new president come a year from now, should altery its dynamic with Russia is long overdue. It is concerning to see how Russia has quietly grown in influence.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120631667357658263.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Bogotá Eyes the Irish Model

Congress must pass the Colombian Free Trade Agreement. Not only does this affirm our commitment to Colombia, but also, it provides a modernization model for Latin America. The Irish example is Europe's success story; Colombia can be Latin America's economic pioneer.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120631596510858221.html?mod=todays_columnists

Desperate Haitians nostalgic for dictators

Dictatorships in Latin America have provided stability, but what are the costs? Haiti shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic, which is a model for economic progress through democratization.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/23/america/haiti.php

An Upsetting Development

I felt obliged to post something about the Georgetown Hoyas given I go to the school.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/23/AR2008032301973.html?hpid=topnews

John McCain in the Middle East and Europe

Sen. McCain arrives in Iraq on Sunday, March 16, 2008.

Sen. McCain and Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki in Baghdad on Monday, March 17, 2008.

Sen. McCain and Jordan's King Abdullah II at the Royal Palace in Amman on Tuesday, March 18, 2008.

Sen. McCain and Israeli President Shimon Peres in Jerusalem on Tuesday, March 18, 2007.

Sen. McCain and Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak in Sderot on Wednesday, March 19, 2008.

Sen. McCain and Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on Wednesday, March 19, 2008.

Sen. McCain with Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni in Jerusalem on Wednesday, March 19, 2008.

Sen. McCain and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert in Jerusalem on Wednesday, March 19, 2008.

Sen. McCain and British Conservative Party leader David Cameron in London on Thursday, March 20, 2008.

Sen. McCain and British Prime Minister Gordon Brown at Number 10 Downing Street in London on Thursday, March 20, 2008.

Sen. McCain and French Prime Minister Francois Fillon meet in Paris on Friday, March 21, 2008.

Sen. McCain and French President Nicolas Sarkozy at Elysee Palace in Paris on Friday, March 21, 2008.

McCain reaches out to U.S. allies, but Iraq is an obstacle

Sen. McCain's trip to the Middle East and Europe proves he is not only prepared to handle foreign policy, but also, that he has the knowledge and tact to work with our allies, rebuild relationships and restore our image abroad.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/23/america/mccain.php?page=1

Say Goodbye to the Glowbama Mystique

It is time Barack Obama received the same treatment from the media as Sen. McCain and Sen. Clinton.

http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/political_commentary/commentary_by_michelle_malkin/say_goodbye_to_the_glowbama_mystique

EU anxiety as Sarkozy prepares to take helm

France's upcoming EU presidency is an opportunity for President Nicolas Sarkozy to refocus his international (and national) image and agenda. It will also serve as a revitalization in the EU.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/19/europe/letter.php

The Conservative Case for McCain

As the nation faces an uncertain economic future, John McCain's efforts to end earmarks and limit federal government spending are the policies the US taxpayer needs and deserves.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120553936399438277.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Opposition Party May Tone Down Radical Voice

This will definitely be interesting to watch. Mexico's internal politics have a direct correlation on its efficiency to deliver to its 108.7 million population and also work with the US on immigration.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120553313572037761.html?mod=hpp_us_inside_today

HUZZAH!

I do not think any commentator, television host or administration official could have put it best than this courageous soldier from the battlefront.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/14/AR2008031403231.html?hpid=opinionsbox1

'Magic is over' for the U.S., says foreign minister of France

The new president will undoubtedly face challenges in rebuilding America's image abroad. This is why we need experience, cooperation and innovation in the White House.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/12/europe/france.php

The Education of John McCain

Excellent look at Sen. McCain's educational policies and suggestions for a McCain presidency.

http://weeklystandard.com/Content/Public/Articles/000/000/014/824ikqqk.asp?pg=2

Now the Hard Part

Looking ahead to the general election structure of the McCain campaign.

http://weeklystandard.com/Content/Public/Articles/000/000/014/836lhovb.asp?pg=1

GOP Pork, Imperiled By McCain

It is time the GOP go back to its fiscal conservative roots and abandon earmarks. Sen. McCain is the leader for that movement.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/09/AR2008030901428.html?hpid=opinionsbox1

From the Right, He Looks Too Blue

This is worth some consideration.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/07/AR2008030702845.html?hpid=opinionsbox1

Britain lays out details of national ID card program

The British model will be interesting to monitor as the immigration and national security debates continue in the US.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/06/europe/brits.php

China's envoy to Sudan defends policy on Darfur

China must revise its policy toward Sudan and carry its responsibilities in Darfur. There is no doubt that with Chinese ambivalence and ignorance the crisis has only worsened. If the US was in China's position, there would be massive outcry from the international community and human rights activists. Why not with the Chinese?

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/07/africa/darfur.php

Thais seize notorious arms-deal suspect

Capturing weapons suppliers is a critical component of defeating terrorism and religious/ethnic extremism. Perhaps what is most interesting is that the laptop that was recovered by Colombian forces after the killing of FARC commandant Raul Reyes led to this arrest.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/06/asia/dealer.php

Europe's leaders warned of big rise in migration

There is no doubt that Europe and other industrialized nations of the West (US and Canada for example) will face increasing migration trends. I am skeptical that climate change will be the major catalyst.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/07/europe/migrate.php

Serbian prime minister says he no longer trusts his pro-EU ministers

The situation in Serbia and Kosovo is in a precarious state. Unfortunately, turning against the West, specifically the European Union, does not behoove Serbia.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/03/07/europe/EU-GEN-Serbia-Government.php

Arab leaders threaten to boycott Damascus summit

Moderate Middle Eastern nations such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan should encourage their neighbors to also isolate Syria and its ruthless regime.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/07/africa/syria.php

Terrorism again intrudes as Spain heads to the polls

This is a cowardly act. I am not sure, however, how the Spanish people will react. Last time they voted out the government of Jose Maria Aznar only to be replaced by the lackluster and incompetent Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/07/europe/spain.php

The Great Non Sequitur

Again, excellent piece by Charles Krauthammer.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/06/AR2008030603113.html?hpid=opinionsbox1

McCain clinches race as Huckabee concedes

Congratulations to Sen. John McCain, a courageous patriot, experienced politician, and trusted leader.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/05/america/05repubs.php

Ecuador pulls diplomat from Bogota

Chavez and Correa order troops to respective borders with Colombia. This is definitely a situation to monitor.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/americas/03/02/chavez.colombia/index.html

Vienna meeting on arms data reignites Iran nuclear debate

Though December's NIE affected the perception of Iran's threat, this proves it is still a dangerous situation.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/03/africa/03nuke.php?page=1

Election in Russia confirms Putin's chosen successor

This is a disgrace. I am sure the Russian people would prefer a struggling democracy that is their own rather than the hand-picked successor of Vladimir Putin.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/03/europe/02cndrussia.php

William F. Buckley Jr., champion of conservatism, dies at 82

Buckley made enormous contributions to conservatism. He will be missed.

William F. Buckley, Jr.

1926 - 2008

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/27/america/27buckley.3.php

Obama's "Patriot" Act

Further evidence that Obama is far too inexperienced - this time with economic issues - to be our next president.

Also, Rep. John Campbell (R-CA) recently said this of the freshman senator's economic plan and his appeal as a candidate:

"He's got socialized medicine, he's got more welfare, he's got food stamps, he's got free houses and tax cuts for 95 percent of the American people and frankly it is simply not sustainable. Always be weary of very charismatic, good-speaking people who promise everybody everything, because you'll never know what they'll really do."

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120407121574294919.html?mod=opinion_main_review_and_outlooks

Raúl Castro gives signals that Cuba will change

Let us remain cautiously hopeful of Cuba's new president. In the end, it is the interest of the freedom-deprieved Cuban people that must be taking into account.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/26/america/cuba.php?page=3

Czechs agree to electronic prescreening of travelers to U.S.

This is another sign of the general lethargy of the EU and how proactive steps by national governments, in this case the Czech Republic, are far more successful. These new travel measures streamline the process of entering the US and eliminates a cumbersome visa requirement that backlogged US consular officials aborad.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/26/europe/visa.php

U.S. missile shield plan nearly final, Czechs say

This is a great step forward in European and American relations for common defense.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/25/europe/shield.php

It's the Middle East, Stupid

Author and scholar Michael Oren discusses the prospect of instability in the Middle East and its challenges for the next president.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/02/25/AR2008022502224.html?hpid=opinionsbox1

South Korea's Sarkozy

An interesting outlook on Lee Myung-bak, the new president of South Korea.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/114681/page/1

How Right is McCain?

Excellent point by point breakdown of where Sen. McCain, GOP nominee to the presidency, stands.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120310968910072193.html?mod=opinion_journal_political_diary

David Brooks on Obama, Conservatism and the reality of a Democratic mandate

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/15/opinion/15brooks.html

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/19/opinion/19brooks.html?_r=1

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/12/opinion/12brooks.html

Obama's credentials

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGeu_4Ekx-o

Mr. President, Don't Forget Iran

Good outlook on the real threat Iran still poses.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120338314589475783.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

GOP Flake out

Rep. Jeff Flake (R-AZ) deserves a seat on the House Appropriations Committee.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120338258864375739.html?mod=opinion_main_review_and_outlooks

Let Freedom Ring

What an exciting few days for freedom across the world. As the international community welcomes Kosovo, Pakistan had elections dealing a blow to the ruling party of President Musharraf and Fidel Castro stepped down as president of Cuba.

As my best friend would say (and I modified):
Forever a Patriot, Forever Free!

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/02/19/pakistan/index.html

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/19/america/castro.php?page=1

Kosovo declares independence

Congratulations to Kosovo! It is interesting to note in the photo how not only Kosovar flags are being flown, but also, the red, white and blue, star-spangled banner of the US.

The US and the rest of the modern West welcome Kosovo and wish her people prosperity and freedom.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/europe/02/17/kosovo.independence/index.html

Freedom and Islam in Turkey

Turkey searches for its modern, secular identity with a population that is predominately Muslim hoping for EU membership.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120302713611769635.html?mod=opinion_main_europe_asia

The Neocons and Iraq

As a self-proclaimed neoconservative, I still believe going into Iraq was the right thing to do for the long term benefit of the US and the Middle East.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120312200840372987.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Sarkozy is criticized for Holocaust memorial plan

The criticism is uncalled for and irrelevant. President Sarkozy is taking bold steps in integrating religious dialogue in France and should be supported.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/15/europe/france.php?page=1

Cannon to the right of him

Compelling outlook on the general election and campaign season.

http://www.economist.com/world/na/displaystory.cfm?story_id=10697074

The Audacity of Selling Hope

Charles Krauthammer eloquently states what I have been saying for months: the Obama campaign is without substance and a danger to the country.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/02/14/AR2008021403105.html?hpid=opinionsbox1

Romney throws his support to McCain

This is a great step forward in uniting the Republican party for the general election campaign season.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/14/america/campaign.php

Obama and McCain sweep 3 primaries

It appears Sen. McCain is closer to securing the Republican nomination. The Democratic race is still neck-and-neck between Sen. Obama and Sen. Clinton.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/13/america/12cndcampaign.php

The New Campus Dissidents

Older article from the Wall Street Journal, but very appropriate for intellectual debate on campuses.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB116917079496581026.html

A Wall Street Journal Extravaganza

The Wall Street Journal today is peppered with excellent opinion pieces ranging from the 2008 presidential race to Islam in the West.

Toleration and Islamic Law
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120277887999260839.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Canterbury Tale
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120277071333660405.html?mod=opinion_main_europe_asia

The Clintons' Terror Pardons
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120277819085260827.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

McCain and Talk-Show Hosts
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120277844588960675.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Getting to 270
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120268013352957191.html?mod=opinion_journal_political_diary

Oil money cultivates a Mideast Ivy League

A different take on premier American education outposts in the Middle East.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/11/america/11global.php?page=1

Turkey's Parliament lifts scarf ban

This is an important step for Turkey and improves its prospects of entering the European Union as well as garnering respect in the Western world. At its core, religious expression and practice is a fundamental freedom that must be protected and not a cause for concern in over-secularization of society.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/09/europe/10turkey.php

Russian proposes new U.S. dialogue

This is refreshing news from Moscow. A healthy, functioning relationship between the US and Russia is necessary to advance democracy in Eastern Europe and Central Asia as well as combating extremism and corruption and promoting freedom.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/10/europe/russia.php

Czechs seek accord by spring on U.S. missile shield

Not only is this crucial for European and US defense, but it also revitalizes the significance of Atlanticism in fostering freedom.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/10/europe/shield.php

Universities rush to set up outposts abroad

The idea of a global education is no longer farfetched. Schools are recognizing this need, and it is a worthwhile opportunity for students.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/10/america/10global.php?page=1

Bush urges unity for Republican Party

I arrived at the Omni Shoreham Hotel at 4am to hear the president speak at 7:15am. It was worth the early rise and wait.

President Bush's speech not only marked the beginning of the end of his presidency, but also looked toward the upcoming election. It is imperative that the GOP be united behind freedom.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/08/america/repubs.php

Group won't monitor campaign in Russia

This speaks volumes of the Russian regime and its attacks on freedom.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/07/europe/russia.php

Challenges and miscalculations dogged Romney from the start

Fascinating look at how the Romney campaign unraveled.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/08/america/08romney.php

Cheers, boos for McCain at conservative gathering

Being a supporter and constituent of Senator McCain, I cannot even begin to express what an incredible day this was. Shortly after Mitt Romney dropped out, the Omni Shoreham erupted in enthusiasm. A few minutes later, Sen. McCain entered and he delivered his speech to CPAC. It is now time to unite behind Sen. McCain.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/02/07/mccain.conservatives/index.html?iref=mpstoryview

Romney suspends presidential campaign

I happened to be at CPAC today and I can attest to the confusion and disillusionment of Romney's supporters. It was a great campaign and a formidable opponent for Sen. McCain.

I congratulate Mitt Romney for getting this far and applaud his reasons for leaving the campaign.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/02/07/romney.campaign/index.html?eref=rss_politics&iref=polticker

McCain faces a dual challenge on his foreign policy message

Sen. McCain's foreign policy will not only restore America's moral standing but foster democratic principles and encourage the spread of freedom.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/05/america/politicus.php?page=1

In Defense of McCain

Two great articles looking at Sen. McCain's conservative credentials and why the fringe right should support him.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/02/06/roland.martin/index.html

http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/0206mccain-conservatives0206-ON.html

McCain to visit British Prime Minister Gordon Brown

Building relationships across the Atlantic is always key to America's values and defense.

Even if he is not the president (yet), the headline looks great.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/02/06/europe/EU-POL-Britain-US-McCain.php

Kosovo is Ready

It is amazing how only a decade ago, Kosovo was torn apart by war and strife. Today, it is on the verge of becoming independent.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/05/opinion/edthachi.php

McCain secures front-runner status, Dem race not settled

Who would have thought this would be the results of Super Tuesday six months ago?

Senator McCain is the Republican Party's best candidate to take on the Democratic nominee this November.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/02/05/super.main/index.html

Bob Dole's Letter to Rush Limbaugh

Rush,

I have not seen you in a long time but I do hear you frequently and I know that you have serious reservations about Senator McCain.

Not that many care but I have not been involved in the Republican Primary contest because Elizabeth, a good conservative, is running for reelection in North Carolina where (Mitt) Romney, McCain and (Mike) Huckabee each enjoy considerable support.

I was the Republican Leader from January 1985 until I left the Senate voluntarily in June 1996. I worked closely with Senator McCain when he came to the Senate in 1987 until I departed. I cannot recall a single instance when he did not support the Party on critical votes. (At my age, I cannot be entirely certain but here are a few key conservative examples:)

1) Consistent pro-life record
2) Strong advocate for strict constructionist judges (We were misled on the Souter nomination) 3) Supported voluntary school prayer
4) Supported Constitutional Amendment for a Balanced Budget (needed two-thirds and lost by one vote — 66-34)
5) Strong advocate for reducing spending and opposing pork barrel "ear marks" which has, I might add, angered some of his colleagues
6) Consistent on defending Second Amendment rights
7) Opposed "Hillary Care" which would have been devastating
8) Probably the Senate's strongest advocate for strong national defense
9) Of course he has cast many votes since I left. I totally disagreed with the McCain-Feingold legislation.

On immigration, Senator McCain was not in the Senate when Congress passed President Reagan's immigration legislation which passed overwhelmingly. It granted amnesty to 2.7 million illegals. It was not much different than the 2007 McCain, Kennedy, Bush effort.
I disagree with his votes against the Bush tax cuts but I believe his pledge to make them permanent and I do not agree that Governor Romney ever suggested a timetable for troop withdrawals in Iraq.

McCain is a friend and I proudly wore his P.O.W. bracelet bearing his name while he was still a guest at the "Hanoi Hilton." I believe our major candidates are mainstream conservatives and that our nominee will address our concerns by keeping taxes low, reducing corporate taxes, protecting and assisting the vulnerable, strengthening our traditional values, and above all, keeping America strong militarily, whatever the cost.

Whoever wins the Republican nomination will need your enthusiastic support. Two terms for the Clintons are enough.

Gob Bless America,
BOB DOLE

The McCain Calculus

Recent enthusiasm over Sen. McCain seems so silly to someone who has always stood by him. As with any candidate, it is impossible to agree on every issue. Still, Sen. McCain offers an unmatched credibility and experienced.

http://online.wsj.com/article/potomac_watch.html

Desperado

Accurate take on the Chavez regime and his subjugation of the Venezuelan people and their limited freedom.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120209345977739855.html

Forget an Obama-Clinton or Clinton-Obama ticket

Roland Martin makes a compelling argument for why we will not see a Democratic "dream ticket."

http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/02/04/roland.martin/index.html

Dyspepsia on the Right

William Kristol makes a sound and thourough argument for conservatives to stand by Sen. McCain. This is election is as much about ideology as it is experience, optimism, cooperation and electability.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/04/opinion/04kristol.html?ex=1202792400&en=355dc71cbac3766b&ei=5070&emc=eta1

McCain looks confident; Democratic race tightens

Sen. John McCain could likely become the nominee for the Republican party after Tuesday. Ideally, Sen. Hillary Clinton will be the Democratic nominee elminating the empty rhetoric of Sen. Barack Obama.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/04/america/04campaign.php?page=1

What These Eyes Have Seen

Sen. McCain understands war and as commander in chief he would be the right person to lead this country.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/107581/page/1

Obama vs. McCain would be dream match

A McCain-Obama match up this November would be incredibly exciting for the country. I am skeptical of Senator Obama and would prefer to have Senator Clinton as Senator McCain's challenger. Still, the best option would be to have a President McCain this time next year.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/03/america/letter.php

Ask not what JFK can do for Obama

The comparisions between the late, great John F. Kennedy and Senator Barack Obama are merely superficial. JFK espoused confidence and optimism but provided more than Obama's emptry rhetoric.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/03/opinion/edrich.php?page=1

In U.S., orthodoxy is the political dividing line

Political parties are healthy for our democracy, but partisan divide is senseless. Sometimes, unorthodoxy and innovation are needed to bring about gradual change with ample experience.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/03/news/03ores.php

Tadic wins Serbian re-election as president

Boris Tadic's win is a sign of a maturing democratic process in Serbia. It is also a sign of the the power suffrage and freedom can have on a people.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/03/europe/serbs.php

U.S. policy shifts in Central Asia

Central Asia remains a critical region for democracy promotion. A long-term US commitment is in the best interest of the free world.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/03/asia/uzbek.php?page=1

New NATO intelligence chairman was trained by KGB

As NATO tries to redefine itself and address the challenges of the war in Afghanistan, it is not prudent to have a head of intelligence with a mysterious background.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/03/europe/nato.php

A Statesman without Borders

An excellent look at French foreign minister Bernard Kouchner and the remergence of France in foreign affairs.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/03/news/03kouchnert.php

McCain 2008

As a committed McCain supporter I cannot express my sincere happiness.

Former New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani is dropping out and endorsing Senator McCain. Now, it is all up to Super Tuesday.

http://www.economist.com/daily/news/displaystory.cfm?story_id=10598269&top_story=1

The Resurrection of John McCain

Excellent piece. If I could put read this to every narrow minded Evangelical Republican and all those starry-eyed Democrats I would convince them that this man must be our next president.

Florida will determine a lot heading into Super Tuesday. McCain 2008!

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1706450-1,00.html

Prodi resigns after losing confidence vote

Though Prodi did not have a stable government, he does have a point that Italy cannot afford changing governments in a period of global economic uncertainty.

A Berlusconi return would be fun to watch, however.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/01/24/europe/italy.php

McCain has big win in South Carolina; Huckabee falls short

On to Florida to take on Giuliani! McCain 2008!

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/01/20/america/20carolina.php

When freedom stumbles

Excellent overview at the state of freedom in the world.

http://www.economist.com/world/international/displaystory.cfm?story_id=10534384

Nicholas Burns, State Department's No. 3 diplomat, is resigning

Godspeed to one of America's most refined diplomats.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/01/18/america/State-Department-Burns.php

A Center called McCain

Cohen outlines some excellent points about Sen. McCain and the election.

1) A split GOP threatens itself.
2) McCain worries Democrats.
3) McCain is the best GOP candidate to draw independent.
4) McCain has the experience to deal with our challenges.
5) McCain would blur partisan lines.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/17/opinion/17cohen.html?_r=2&hp&oref=slogin&oref=slogin

Republican voters, in big shift, favor McCain over his rivals

This is good news for Sen. McCain. I stood by him in 2000, during the criticisms of the Iraq war, during the immigration debate, in his near-melt down last summer, and continue to do so today.

He is what our country needs right now - not the ambiguous "change" message.

My friend Todd Moellenberg, a freshman at the University of Texas - Austin, puts it best:

It's less about his [McCain's] political stances and more about my belief in his genuineness and consistency between his expressed opinions and Congressional actions. It's his steadfast rationality; the fact that he consistently loses popularity when running is because he doesn't shape shift as a candidate. I think every other candidate lacks such a quality, instead pandering to the crude will of the people rather than qualified logic.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/01/14/america/14poll.php

Rules for the next president

Former Secretary of State and current Georgetown professor, Madeline Albright, raises some valid points in her memorandum to the next chief executive.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/01/13/opinion/edalbright.php