#13 Foreign Policy - Part II

There are three reasons I support Barak Obama that are related to foreign policy.

I wrote about the first in #5- GW Bush involved us in a war based on WMDs. There were no WMDs, the war will cost us a trillion dollars we don't have and, more importantly, has cost us trust and respect by middle-eastern countries we need as allies.

Tonight I am addressing the second reason. The best foreign policy is grounded in realism, a deep understanding of the complexities of our enemies and our allies, not a good guys/bad guys ideaology. Obama is a foreign policy realist.

There are several examples of his realism, displayed when it might be easier to jump on the evil/good-win/loose band wagon. On important example is his statements about terrorists in Pakistan. In August 07 Obama said we should cross into Pakistan in pursuit of terrorists. By making this statement he risked alienating his base long before he had secured the nomination. He drew much fire for his proclamation. A year later Bush followed Obama's advice and now, altho few are taking time to notice, the US makes several incursions each week into the Waziristan section of Pakistan. This is a dangerous move with sad consequences but doing nothing is worse.

Once again Obama was right and had the courage to clearly state his policy over 12 months ago.

Foreign Policy- Part III to follow.