About flip flopping, changing of opinions, of demanding repentance

[question everything]

Adults go through life changing their opinions and beliefs. This is called being mature. Facts change, people around us change, conditions change, we change.

And politicians change even more. If they want to represent us they expect to be in tune with where we stand, more or less. For example, if we want our troops out immediately, we will not vote for someone who wants to stay there. But if we are mature enough, we know that we rarely will be in complete agreement with any elected official.

So, yes, many supported the Iraq war based on what was presented to them. Perhaps even now they support the intention, were expecting a "shock and awe" that would last six months, at the most, put Iraqis in charge with help from neighboring Arab countries and be out.

So what? Now they realize they were duped and change their mind. Do they need to fall down on their knees thump their chests and ask for forgiveness?

Some support the bankruptcy bill. I remember it being discussed on DU where some thought that it had good elements because people were using credit cards indiscriminately, paying only the minimum - which was 1%, I think - spiraling down to being dependent on government assistance.

Even with the housing crisis, some on DU do not want to help the homeowners so that they will learn their lesson.

The last one that I read, was a vicious attack on Obama because... two years ago he declared on a TV talk show that he did not intend to seek the presidency. So what? (for the record, I am not an Obama supporter though, of course, will vote for him is he is the nominee). As 2008 was getting to be a different and exciting election year and, no doubt, with the encouragement of many Democratic leaders who were hoping to stop Hillary, he decided to seek it after all. Since when this is a crime? Is it possible that one reason why Edwards has not been doing that well is because he may be... well, a bit stale? Same for Biden?

And I have no problem with candidates tweaking their message depending on who their audience is. Of course, a complete turn in opinion with no explanation should be questioned. But adapting as more information comes to light, as getting more educated talking to real people, instead of campaign consultant, should be an indication of a sound person who is willing to learn and to adapt.