The MSNBC webite has a fascinating piece about the thesis Hillary Rodham wrote as a senior at Wellesley College in 1969. Her subject was Saul Alinsky, a radical activiist of the era. MSNBC breathlessly states that Ms. Clinton's critics view the thesis as "a 'Rosetta Stone,' in the words of one, that would allow readers to decode the thinking of the former first lady and 2008 presidential candidate." I think most of Hillary's serious critics are more likely to see the thesis as a window into the thinking of a very bright 21-year old, in the context of the student radicalism of the day. As one who was part of that culture, the thesis strikes me as fairly thoughtful and tame by that low standard. Although Hillary apparently attempted to limit access to her thesis, I suspect she's secretly relieved that she didn't write "Ho Chi Minh -- Agrarian Reformer" or "The U.S. Army -- Genghis Khan Revisited."
The MSNBC piece speculates that Hillary's thesis will be used to "Swiftvet" her. But precisely because, unlike Mr. Swiftvet reporting for duty, she didn't push a "Genghis Khan" type thesis, I don't see real vulnerability here. Any vulnerability will derive from the radicalism that Hillary continued to display for many years after she wrote her thesis on Alinsky. For a bit more on the subject, visit Power Line.
Reader Comments ( Page 1 of 4)
1. I think that it is very likely that MSNBC is attempting to neutralize any attempt to "swiftvet" Hillary Clinton as a result of her thesis.
This is a typical power ploy. By seizing control of the subject before it ever has a chance to come up by mentioning it in connection with the swiftvet situation, they have made it a nonfactor.
If someone were to try to "swiftvet" Hillary using her thesis, they now have the power to say "see, I told you they would do it" and effectively negate the commentary that was made because everyone would go "Oh, yeah... they did say that."
Tim at 6:18PM on Mar 2nd 2007
2. blah, blah, blah blah blah
robert at 10:06PM on Mar 2nd 2007
3. I tend to agree with Mr. Mirengoff in His evaluation of the impact of a thesis from that time in Hillary Clinton's political background. Remember her past also included a rather conservative up- bringing as a Republican and Her swing to the left can be followed over a time frame of many years.
Because this is yet early in the campaign for 2008 Presidential elections, I repectfully submit an editorial article I have written. It may very well open a new dialog, and reprint permission is granted
"A Wake up call".... to all Major Parties
Everywhere there is apathy. Nobody cares whether that which is preached is true or false. A sermon is a sermon whatever the subject; only, the shorter it is, the better."
Charles Haddon Spurgeon~~ spoken 100 years ago
Peace is a dream. Peace through appeasement is a pipe dream. Strenth is the only way to prevent war and victory is the only way to end one.
(Author unknown)
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America,
And to the Republic for which it stands. ONE NATION UNDER GOD,
Indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for All!
#1 Remove “Under God” from the pledge?
#2 Remove the Ten Commandments from our federal buildings?
#3 Redefine the definition of marriage?
#4 Support Partial Birth Abortion?
Common sense issues, when put to the "People", have been answered by an overwhelming majority. Senator's take note! Congress too!
Whether Democrat, Republican, or Independent; This nation is ready.. for any Candidate to run on a platform of "Back To Basics. I will go so far as to "coin" a phrase for any candidate to use: "Give me" more MPV... not MTV! (MPV = Morals, Principals, and Values)
I pray, would someone? Some "party"? (hint, hint, $$$).. bring forth a candidate, a "peanut farmer" (of no-name), a Ross Perot (with a tight lip),
a Ronald Reagan (with charisma). This great land is ready for that candidate in 2008!
All of America will have choices to make for candidates in the 2008 elections.
Get involved.....Follow it.. “down the ladder”..... for all the candidates.... and vote... for your agenda.
Please don’t throw your vote away... by staying away, nor giving it away... follow... your “heart” and vote!
"The Christian faith has not been tried and found wanting. It has been found difficult and left untried." --G.K. Chesterton
The early bird gets the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese…(Author unknown)
This simple... "salesman".. says it is not to late for this Great Land!
Blair Hess Jr. at 10:40PM on Mar 2nd 2007
4. Blair Hess...would you marry me?! Wow! There are still people out there like you? Let's hope we can get together to keep the Democraps out of the White House. I wouldn't look good in a burqa.
Donna at 11:04PM on Mar 2nd 2007
5. Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, Socialist, Communist, Greens, Fascist, Anarchist or whatever schism someone could come up with as I see them all they all seem to have one alternative in mind. THEIRS! The attitude being that they will say whatever they need to say to get into office. From there it's all LA LA. As a song says "Crawling out of dirty holes their morals, their morals dissappear..." Every once in a great while we may get someone who has some inspiration to be remembered for something as a legacy sort of thing. This usually happen just before they leave office when they can get the greatest bang for the buck.
Rich at 4:37PM on Mar 8th 2007
6. Dear Blair and Donna:
It is people like you who have almost ruined the Grand Old Party, with phrases such as "Democrap" which have so divided our nation, and theocratic notions that echo the fundamentalist extremism of other religions (such as the Taliban in Islam).
Our founding fathers, however, envisioned the possible rise of movements like yours and gave us a Constitution which makes clear that we are to maintain separation of church and state. And our form of government is designed to encourage a more moderate course than yours, which is why the great pendulum -- which you have pushed WAY too far to the Right -- has now, at last, begun to swing back to the Left, which brings it to a more centrist, safer position. Watch and learn. Better yet, read some unbiased history texts and attempt to consider both sides of each issue, without prejudgement.
The "peanut farmer," by the way -- if you refer to President Jimmy Carter -- was also a nuclear physicist, and one of the finest neogiators we've ever had in the Oval Office. Like me, he is a recovering Southern Baptist, and a better Christian than either you or I will ever be. Even if he WAS a Democrat. (smile)
Now. Play nice, or take your toys and go home.
The Right isn't.
The Left hasn't.
Joy at 12:43AM on Mar 3rd 2007
7. Well, dear Joy ....
IF only you knew what "separation of Church and State" REALLY means, perhaps you could make a wiser comment! Having grown up in Europe I was fully aware that, mainly, the Catholic Church WAS the Government for Centuries. In Britain( Centuries ago) their Churches also ruled and had final say, even though they had "Monarchs" - and THIS is what America's Founding Fathers meant . . . . America was not to be 'ruled' by the Church. They did not intend for prayer to be abolished in schools and any Government facilities, nor removed from our currency etc.
As for "the left" - America better be VERY cautious! The "Left" has always been considered to be the "Socialist" side all over the world - and is THAT what we want for America? The Left has never been "centered" . . . . so WAKE UP! Having been born in EAST Germany, I know what Socialists are and also know what a Dictator can "accomplish".
I consider myself extremely fortunate to be in America and have a Government that is willing to "look out" for its Citizens by fighting wars BEFORE they get to our shores. And THANK GOD for the courageous Soldiers willing to keep us safe!
As the word itself indicates . . . . The RIGHT! . .
IS RIGHT !!!!
Jutta at 2:07AM on Mar 5th 2007
8. Dear Joy,
Could you please send me a copy of your constitution? I can't find seperation of Church and State mentioned anywhere in my copy. My constitution states that "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion." This is very different than government's participation in religion. Here is what George Washington had to say about religion and the government. "Of all dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, Religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of Patriotism, who should labour to subvert these great Pillars of human happiness, these firmest of props of the duties of Men and citizens. The mere Politician, equally with the pious man, ought to respect and cherish them." George Washington's farewell address from The Heritage Guide to the Constitution.
Kenneth at 6:48AM on Mar 3rd 2007
9. I love this blog. It has common sense. A rarity these days... Jutta, I know exactly that of which you speak. The USA is a Christian nation, formed on Christian principles. We cannot allow a handful of athiests, and the few others who are not Christian, to neuter the USA. Separation of Church and State is exactly what it says. It does not say Neutralize the church, and remove the word God from every document. We need the church influence for the moral codes. Families sure aren't teaching them at home anymore.
Joy, Jimmy Carter may have been a nuclear physicist, but he was also the worst president we have had in my years on earth. 21% interest, gas lines, national panic. He did nothing positive for the US on the domestic front. Ross Perot as a candidate was an astute businessman. I think he would have made a good president, at that time, to restore the domestic trust and tranquility. Ronald Reagan was a fine Grade B actor. He sure knew his way around theatrics.
In my opinion, our government is intruding on state's rights at an unprecidented inclining rate. Parents are not parenting. Domestic unrest is rampant. Simple manners are out the window. The police are sticking their noses and tasers in where parents and school principals ruled before. The other day some 13 year old girls were arrested for putting itching powder on a girl and locking her in a closet. The police were not needed. PARENTS with cajones were needed. Parents have ceded their rights and duties to the police and the government. We are becoming exactly what "terror" movies of the 1970's predicted we would be at the turn of the century. Ignorant congresswomen from California are actually being taken seriously with their bills. No spanking? Animals are people, too? When will the stupidity end? Congress needs to make common sense laws. Courts need to interpret them ONLY based on our existing constitution. Courts need to stop MAKING laws. That's why we have three branches of government...another thing that is not taught in school...
The US is not ready for a woman president, a black president, a muslim or mormon president. It needs a Christian president who is still happily married to his first wife. We need a president who will step back to restore state's rights. That's what our founding fathers intended. Stop selling ports and property to foreign countries. Stop trying to be the "cops of the world" as Phil Ochs predicted. I was raised by party line Democrats, who went to church every Sunday. We sat down to family dinner every night. We were spanked and grounded when we were bad. We had to apologize to those we offended. Then I grew up and the Democratic party took such an acute left turn toward socialism that it left me standing alone. Churches were shunned. Parents left their children for the state to raise. All that we fought against in WWII was becoming accepted as the norm. Our founding fathers would be aghast at the changes in the last 250+ years. We need a leader who will take us back to state's rights, parents' responsibilities and some good old fashioned common sense! None of the 2008 candidates,so far, project this to me.
Pat
Patricia at 6:31AM on Mar 3rd 2007
10. Is everyone insane? Going on about Religion, that's what drives forth problems to begin with... It's not really ideology that seperates the smart from the stupid, to be bluntly put rather... It's Religion that seperates us all, because from a young age you've been sat down and told you're gonna die and rot in a pit of dispair if you don't follow the mighty Jesus... I am Christian, but I chose that of my own free will and I do not entrust the values of the bible as the principles of my nation, because there is much evil in the Bible as well if you'd take another perspective on it, God wasn't perfect... He flooded the earth and then Apologized for it with that " I will never flood the earth again and this symbol of the rainbow will be my proof. " Well.. I'm not saying don't be Christian, just use your mind to decide on right and wrong, and not voting for just what's best for you! But what's best for everyone! Take yourself out of your high moral position and put yourself in someone elses shoes to see what their situation is like driving their opinion.
Vinnie at 8:03AM on Mar 3rd 2007
11. To All,
Great job to Jutta, Pat and Kenneth. Can you believe how twisted our laws and court rulings have become? Of course, this then led to banning prayer in the schools, legalized murder of life(abortion), increased divorce rate/single parent homes, "Separation of Church & State", rampant acceptance of the deviant and sinful lifestyle of homosexuality (for you critics, we do love the homosexual as a creation of God just like you and me, we just despise the disgusting unnatural acts or lifestyle - there is a difference America) etc.. Kenneth, you are correct 100% about how, "Separation of Church & State" is no where in the Constitution, yet most Americans think it is. America should be aware of a few more items: Do you know what the first book officially published by the United States Government was, which resides in the United States Library of Congress? You're right!!! It is the Holy Bible (Christian, of course). And, more amazingly . . . do you know what the preface or foreward cites? It says, " . . . for the instruction of our children in the public schools"!!! In addition, "The New England Primer" was the primary textbook for English, Reading and Vocabulary for over 150 years in most public schools in the Northeast, USA. The alphabet is taught in the primer using all Christian based references from the Bible and reading is taught using the Lord's Prayer and the Christian Catechism. Lastly, the phrase, "Separation of Church in State" was used by Thomas Jefferson in a letter he sent to a church in New England who were trying to define for their local Christian congregation exactly what Jefferson meant by his words in the constitution that Kenneth quoted above. I do not have a copy of the letter from Jefferson with me now - but the response to the church was clearly Christian based and not meant to take all reference of the Christian Faith out of government. Although, the founding fathers were all sinful and had their faults just like you and me, it is clear that more than 90% of them were Christians saved by the Grace of God and the shed blood of Jesus Christ. It is also clear that the government was founded, rooted and based in Biblical principles. This is how the branches of government were set up. This is why there was and is prayer in Congress at the start of their sessions, this is why there are monuments and inscriptions in old government buildings (and used to be in the schools and other public buildings). May God have mercy on all of us. If anyone has any questions on the founding of our country and our founding fathers, see David Barton from Wallbuilders. (No I do not work for them or receive and remuneration for my reference to them).
Tom at 9:21AM on Mar 3rd 2007
12. Hilary has her own agenda. It is not related to the well being of the country, but rather to her personal well being and position of control. Remember her comment, "We are the President"?
Please do, for she will tolerate any situation as long as she can remain in a position of authority and control. Evidenced, for one, by her tolerant acceptance of her husbands public sexual shenanigans. Much like Marie Antoinette of history her empathy for the population she intends to rule leaves much to be desired.
On a psychic level,In January of that year,months prior to 'their' election to the presidency, info was given me outlining his being chosen the Democratic candidate,his election to the office, the numerous ensuing deaths to follow, and the totally 'evil' power or presence that was backing this effort.
They were to be the 'figurehead'for this evil power. It went on to say that this 'fait accompli' would be the worst thing that could happen to the United States. All other issues aside, you must agree that the US has rapidly failed in influence and stature on a world wide level ever since.
While questioning...why me?, for I hate politics with a passion and certainly no one would listen to my voice, my quiet advice, based on history, is avoid her at all costs.
Pat Pfeffer at 10:50AM on Mar 3rd 2007
13.
"(for you critics, we do love the homosexual as a creation of God just like you and me, we just despise the disgusting unnatural acts or lifestyle - there is a difference America)" quote from Tom
Tom, why are you and like-minded individuals ALWAYS so focused on what you think / imagine / fantasize that gays and lesbians are doing in the bedroom?? I do not know one gay or lesbian person who has discriminated against a straight person bc of their "disgusting, unnatural acts"... which are flaunted daily in the media.
Homosexuals like hetereosexuals are more than just sexuals beings. So quit hiding your homophobic attitude behind your chosen interpretation of the bible.
todd at 8:14PM on Mar 3rd 2007
14. This "simple salesman" did not mean to mix politics and religion in my posted message. It was intended to be a wake up call on some common sense issues. (the silent majority must take exception to). Look at the talley when put to the people. The results are not so silent. I must state.. it is more like common sense. Re-define the definition of marriage? Remove the words under God We Trust from our currency? Remove the Ten Commandments from our federal buildings? Support partial birth abortion? Parents no longer allowed to spank or should I say, correct our children? Need I go on?
My message to Joy..you are way off base, Vinnie sorry it seemed to involve religion, thanks to Jutta and Ken; Pat yours stands out..and Tom yours gave me a "wow" moment. You would get my vote! My hopes are for this word to get out...to the powers to be in politics...some things are simple! My posting should be taken by the majority as..we are mad as *$#@, and won't take it anymore. It is time to speak out! Did Hollywood once say that in the movie Vietnamn, with Robin Williams?
To Donna, (the first to respond)...sorry, Happily married for 32 years at the tender age of 17. OOOPS..better not say that, because I joke, with customers and friends.. that she raped me...:) Could be a lawsuit in this day and age.
Blair Hess Jr. at 8:24PM on Mar 3rd 2007
15. The founding fathers understood that ANY decision they made was based on a fundamental faith that what they did was the best for the citizens of their country and to establish a basis from which to launch a country. I'm sure they couldn't have imagined all the changes that would take place over the next 200+ years. Even Benjamin Franklin understood that succeeding generations of Americans would figure it out.
It seems we have never been able to constantly stay in the middle. We swing from 1 side of the pendelum to the other and can never find common ground on a lot of issues-until election time. Just like a compass which always points to magnetic north no matter where you are, so do the american electorate.
When all is said an done, we decide where we want to go which is just what the founding fathers wants.
WE, THE PEOPLE.
GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
robert at 8:28PM on Mar 3rd 2007