killer buffalo

As Democratic and Republican figures herd their constituents to surrender to their party’s respective candidate, Congressmen, former presidential candidates, and state representatives alike, are tossing around endorsements like earmarks in a congressional bill.

Meanwhile, it has become no longer rude for major politicians to fail to endorse their party’s candidate, but rather utterly taboo. Look at Mike Huckabee, Hillary Clinton, and formerly John McCain; the endorsement of the leading candidate has reserved a distinct spot in the American concession speech.

But the above Democrats and Republicans are about to learn a thorny lesson: a political endorsement, like an endorsement on a check, is by definition a signature, with which comes responsibility. If a politician does not completely support a candidate and think they are the best person to lead the country, they are not required to endorse them; if politicians think they can better fill a position, they can run as an independent. Moreover, if they choose to endorse a candidate, they acknowledge liability for the candidate’s past and future actions.

Back in 2000, John McCain heavily emphasized a phrase that should haunt him now. He said, “I endorse Governor Bush. I endorse Governor Bush. I endorse Governor Bush.” And yet as Bush’s unpopular presidency winds down, the media has for the most part given McCain a free pass.

So since the media won’t ask McCain the tough questions, I will. Mr. McCain: Did you, in 2000, think Governor Bush would have done a better job then you as president? If not, why did you endorse him? If so, do you stand by your position? Wouldn’t it be fair to say you would be a similar president? Why wouldn’t you be similar to someone you fully pledged your support to?

Now it’s Senator Clinton, former Senator John Edwards, and former presidential candidate Al Gore’s, turn to watch their trials play out. If Senator Obama is elected, and if he largely fails as president, we know who can be held accountable.

-David Lamb

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