Why Obama is such a rich target for the anti-patriotism charge

[cali]

and why this will continue and grow. Charges of a lack of patriotism are common against dem candidates. Look what happened to John Kerry and Max Cleland. It's standard and hearty fare for repubs.

But Obama is a special case. Pointing out his supposed lack of patriotism is an opportunity to say, in code, that he's not really even an American. His father was a black muslim from Kenya. His background is thus called up. They're saying that he's actually a foreign element, something subversive and inherently untrustworthy. He won't be loyal to America. His loyalty will be to Africa. That's what they're really saying.

So expect more of this. Lots more. But expect Obama to fight back and fight back smart. This is a campaign that has clearly studied past smears of nominees, and is not going to be stuck unprepared.

[Skittles]

1. it's a standard charge of anyone who doesn't goose-step to the war

to repukes, patriotism means KILLING; yes INDEED

[earthlover]

2. They went after Clelland's patriotism.

The reason they will go after Obama's patriotism is that he is a Democrat.

This is ironic because this is a guy who has dedicated his life to America. And he has inspired throngs of new Americans to get involved in the process. Without a friggin pin.

Obama will be able to win over Americans to his patriotism. And make the others look foolish in the process.

[icnorth]

3. Especially important is the lack of respect displayed

when he didn't place his hand over his heart; oh and the lack of pins and flags on his apparel, puts him right in there with the fifth columnists. :puke:

[riverwalker]

4. the electorate has changed

the country has evolved, I really believe that the war and 8 years of GWB has forced some serious soul searching on a usually apathetic public. The jingoism that worked before has lost it's power.
It won't work this time, although I agree they will do their best and throw all they can to smear him. I never even see yellow ribbon bumper stickers anymore.