I only tend to post here on kos when I have the contrarian view on an issue. Generally that is because I find that when I agree with the mainstream progressive view, I feel as if I would add very little to the discussion. However when, as now, I find myself seemingly in disagreement with the majority, I feel the need to give my two cents.
It is very rare when I find myself in agreement with the President. Even when I respect his decision (such as on the John Roberts nomination), it is not because I have any love for him, but mainly because I liked the individual in question.
However I am a bit shocked at the views on the port question...
As I understand it (and please tell me if I am wrong), the main offense that the President has committed on the issue of ownership of ports has been to allow individuals of Arab descent to take ownership of the ports in question. No one (liberal or conservative) seems to have problems with people of foreign countries running these ports, as the British have run this one for some time. But the problem is simply that the new people in charge will be from the United Arab Emirates....a problem that has nothing to do with the people in charge, but solely about their nationality and ethnicity.
Now I could understand the Pat Buchanan-esque view that all ports should be run by Americans...I can accept that, even if I disagree. But once we have made the decision to allow foreign-operated ports, what is the argument for not allowing Arabs to run these ports? I am of course assuming that this group has been checked out and that there are no terrorist sympathizers (and if people know otherwise, that would obviously change my opinion), but if we make this assumption, the only contrary argument seems to be embodied in racism....specifically "well if they are Arab, they cant be allowed to be in control."
There are many of us, myself at the top of the list, who often believe that George Bush and this administration can do no right. However in our zeal for that opinion, we shouldnt condemn an idea simply because he agrees with it. I would think that our view should be that regardless of everything else, Arab individuals and groups should be judged on their own merits....the contrary position (taken most loudly by other Republicans and some Democrats) seems to be a position that should be very offensive to us.
But I am open to being convinced otherwise.