From Dole to Clinton: Why One Man Changed Sides (three-term Republican congressman)

[goldcanyonaz]

Robert Ellsworth, three-term Republican congressman, former ambassador to NATO and the man who ran Bob Dole’s presidential campaign in 1988, has switched sides. After endorsing Clinton, Ellsworth discusses how the Republicans have lost their soul, what’s wrong with the neocons and why he has faith in Hillary.



The National Interest: Even though you’re a lifelong Republican, you endorsed Hillary Clinton for president. Is that a vote against McCain?

Robert F. Ellsworth: No. And this is not a completely unleavened acceptance of all of Clinton’s policy views, but rather my personal assessment of her nerve, her strength, her boldness and her interest in learning and growing. Most importantly, the world is going to give us a lot of surprises in the coming years that will threaten our national interests. We need someone to react to them in a constructive and positive way. What we don’t want is another Bush-like reaction to 9/11. President Bush’s reaction was awkward and ill judged and ill informed. And I think all the candidates agree about that.

http://www.nationalinterest.org/Article.aspx?id=16746

[AX10]

1. Oh look, she can attract Republicans who are...

angry with the current party.

[goldcanyonaz]

2. A congressman at that. I guess we got those "crossover" voters too.