As being reported here, it appears that Rangel intends to introduce legislation calling for the renewal of the draft as soon as the new Congress begins in January.
I have to believe the idea is DOA- I don't know that I have seen even a single other Congressman on either side of the aisle support the idea, and the Pentagon continues to oppose it.
But, I am curious what others think of the politics of the idea. On the one hand, it emphasises the idea that the children of the elite are not being called to sacrifice as they once were in this country. On the other hand, it's my recollection that it was Democrats who were saying that the Republicans would re-institute the draft in 2004, and that's a talking point that would go away.
Another thought- if this were to actually enter the public debate in a meaningful way (which I don't think it will- like I said earlier, I don't think there is any real support for the idea), it would seem to me that the potential Presidential candidate that this debate would help the most would be John McCain, since he is one of the few people in the Congress with a child in the military (I know there are others, including Webb, but they aren't potential nominees).
As I said, I am curious as to what others think about the political ramifications of calling for a draft (without considering whether one is a good idea in actuality). I would lean toward not a great idea, but ultimately will only barely impact on the public's consciousness. Answer the poll as to what you think.