It looks like it's going to be Kerry.
So let's hope Kerry is a hella candidate.. I just started reading Tour of Duty, the new book out about John Kerry's Vietnam years. I'm inspired by his story. Really, I was shocked at this John Kerry from 30 years ago.. I cannot imagine George W. Bush looking good in contrast.
Kerry: Went to Vietnam voluntarily. His first job was maintenance for a frigate not directly involved in fighting. He could have stayed there perfectly safe and come home after his tour. But he volunteered for extremely dangerous duty and performed with true bravery.
Bush: Accepted a place at an Air National Guard unit, moving ahead of other applicants no doubt because his father was a congressman. When he asked for a temporary assignment in Alabama so that he could work on an campaign he was denied permission, but he went anyway. Now there is no record that he ever performed any service during that year. Further, allegations of drug use and a possible stay at a rehab center in North Carolina complicate the story.
When Kerry came home from the war, he realized that it had been a mistake, and he became the spokesman for the vets who disagreed with American policy. He stood behind his principles at a time when it was still dangerous to do so (Nixon was in office!) Bush avoided going to the war, but did not do so out of principle, it would seem, for if he did, he has been silent on that point ever since.
They were both young men then, but recent events show that GW hasn't really changed so much. He's still reckless and irresponsible (he's not responsible for anything, just ask him). Perhaps Kerry's record over the last few years isn't quite as inspiring as it might be. But he's fighting the good fight now.
So as a former Deanite, I am announcing my intention to back Kerry and like it.