So McCain is going after Obama, the sitting President! is going after Obama. And it looks to me like the Republicans are worried.
I figured I'd dive in with some thoughts to share and also collect some of yours. Nothing new or breaking here, just a small vent on my part.
"What is lost by talking with those with whom we disagree?"
Reasonable question. Decades of the ignore approach obviously haven't changed a thing in Cuba. Besides, isn't that what leaders of countries are supposed to do? You know, hash out our differences with adversaries?
PRESIDENT BUSH'S REPLIES
"What is lost by embracing a tyrant who puts people in prison for embracing their political beliefs?’’
Since when does direct dialog automatically equate to embracement?
"It will send the wrong message."
Yes, showing the world that we are finally being proactive in brining about change in Cube sends the wrong message.
"it would give great status to those who have suppressed human rights and human dignity."
How incredibly arrogant.
"You know, I'm not suggesting there is never a time to talk. But I'm suggesting now is NOT the time NOT to talk with Raul Castro."
It's not the time not to talk? Yes! That's what I've been saying! OK, now I'll be serious and put the double negative aside. With a brand new leader now IS the time to talk and time is of the essence. If we set the tone that, no matter what, our relations are going to be the same shit - different day... HE will likely do the same.
"The decisions of the US President to have discussions with certain international figures can be extremely counterproductive"
I'm trying to come up with a deep and profound reply, but all my brain can produce is "WTF?" Talking is counterproductive and not talking is productive? The latter is the absence of action, thus, completely void of any productivity. This is not rocket surgery, nor is it brain science.
"It can send confusion about our foreign policy"
In writing this commentary I'm reminded of snippets from the Daily Show. Boy their writers have their work cut out for them. Not due to lack of material, but rather, information fricking overload!