Originally posted by Cow Poke
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We have plenty of good evidence for these conclusions; we know that the 2004 amendment was a Karl Rove initiative for the Bush campaign and we know that Bush supported Rove's play. But, on that point, I don't think it much matters whether Bush's intentions were cynical or sincere: Bush pursued an action that would have prevented DeGeneres and millions like her from being able to form legal families. Without public apology and contrition, it's a problem that DeGeneres is treating that like a mere disagreement over issues. That's a real harm.
On the Iraq War and torture, there isn't even that level of complexity. Bush disregarded intelligence that refuted the justification his administration wanted to use to start the Iraq War and Bush misled the American people and the world, anyway. Bush authorized the introduction of torture into American strategy.
Of course it's judgmental to say that Bush shouldn't be treated as though these were just banal policy or personal disagreements. But it's the right kind of judgement, one that holds the powerful to account, even a small amount, for the harm they do so carelessly.
--Sam
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