The 2004 Presidential election is a watershed moment in American politics. Given the importance of this moment, it is not surprising that the election has seen some of the most bitter partisan rhetoric on both sides in recent memory. The hysterical tenor of many of the voices in the current political discussion can make it difficult for undecided voters, who by definition do not really care for either candidate, to decide which man deserves their vote. I believe, however, that when one examines the candidates on the two main issues at stake in this electionùthe war in Iraq and the economy at homeùthat one candidate emerges as the clear leader. That candidate is John Kerry, the Democratic Senator from Massachusetts. John Kerry would bring to the President's office over two decades of dedicated and principled leadership in one of the Nation's most important bodies, the United States' Senate. He has in depth knowledge of all the major foreign and domestic issues confronting the country, and demonstrated the depth of his moral fiber by volunteering to represent America in the Vietnam War and earning medals and saving lives through his valorous conduct during that war.
But this election is not about Vietnam, it is about the serious issues that are facing our nation today. And by all accounts, the US is currently fighting two separate wars around the world: the war in Iraq, and the war against terrorism. The only real link between the two wars is that the war in Iraq has claimed the American troops, money, and attention that should have been focused on the war on terrorism. Let us not forget, after all, that Al-Qaeda, and not Iraq, was responsible for the tragedy of September 11, 2001. There was no link whatsoever between Saddam Hussein and Al Qaeda, despite Vice President Cheney's repeated implications that there was a link (Siddiqui). This fact has been recognized by various administration officials including Defense ...