So it appears this will be the main argument for W's reelection:
1) W: a strong, righteous leader
to be deployed in conjunction with the secondary claim:
2) The bad things that have happened are not his fault.
So how is it the mark of a strong leader to avoid responsibility for the bad things that happen under his watch?
As it stands, the logic doesn't make sense. That's because what's missing is the unspoken third premise:
3) America: not worthy of its current leader.
In other words, the bad things that have happened are our fault, not W's.
Crazy thinking, right? Well, consider where else you've heard this kind of argument before.
(And if you're not sure what I'm getting at, just substitute 'God' for 'W'.)
Don't be surprised to hear messages that say, in so many words: "Sinners and secularists of America, repent! Vote Bush/Cheney '04!"
It's a dark, dark, well-nigh Satanic strategy, and I doubt it will sway swing voters - but who knows?
Progressives must always beware underestimating the power of religious undercurrents in American life.