I’m listening to the AFL-CIO Democratic presidential campaign forum now. One of the recent questions asked what the candidates would do if the United States military left Iraq and al Qaeda forces took over. Now the question is certainly hypothetical. Maybe the question is not “fair,” in the sense that perhaps it’s not probable. But are all questions directed at a president fair? Hardly. This is a question that a lot of people are tossing around, regardless of whether it’s fair or not. It’s an issue that a president needs to address, regardless of what he thinks of the question. Dennis Kucinich didn’t answer the question.
Then Joe Biden was asked a question about what he would do in the face of erosion of regulations for mine safety under the Bush administration, by a woman whose husband died in a mine accident. Joe Biden gave very brief condolences to the woman for the loss of her husband, then moved right on past the question to talk about foreign policy in Iraq.
Answer the question. Answer the question. Answer the question.
Now Chris Dodd isn’t answering his question.
Now Hillary Clinton isn’t answering her question.
Come on, people, it’s a sign of respect to the citizens who have the bravery to get up in front of a stadium and nation, hit the mike, and get out their sincere questions.
Consolation: the raucus union audience is booing the candidates and shouting, “Answer the Question!” Keep ‘em honest.
Is this the same union that will be losing huge concessions to the doomed American auto industry later this summer if they want to keep their jobs?