Today, President Clinton used the power of his office to highlight a continuing tragedy, the plight of the Native Americans on "reservations." He broke with the long-standing tradition of presidents who avoid Indians as much as possible and was the guest of the approximately 38,000 residents of the Pine Ridge reservation in South Dakota.
This is another example of President Clinton's courage and convictions because even though it exposes him to criticism from both the right and left he is reaching out to help his fellow Americans. Who might criticize him? Well, Conservatives don't really need a reason, they hate him just because. So making an appearance and trying to help people who can't afford to make big campaign contributions just infuriates the right-winger's. And from his own party some might say "why didn't you make a gesture like this years ago?" Well, both sides would be missing the point if they felt this way.
Our country is in an amazing period of growth and prosperity. Now, more than ever, we need to reach out and make sure as many citizens as possible are swept along by this wave of good fortune. Building up the infrastructure of our country, even when it only helps a few tens of thousand people, is a good idea.
So should only Native Americans receive the President's attention? Come on,
get real! This President is uniquely interested in doing good for our nation.
Unlike presidents who are building support for reelection, Mr. Clinton is able
to exercise his authority as he thinks best without fear of losing his office
because he didn't butter the right peoples' bread. And unlike our last "two-term"
president, Mr. Clinton has not fallen victim to a brutal, mind-destroying disease.
So, is this enough? Am I so foolish that I think this visit, alone, will cure all ills, right all wrongs, and restore all hope? NO! But it's a step in the right direction. President Clinton didn't say, "This is bad, let's give them a handout." He is pushing for incentives for businesses that locate in a part of the country that needs them. He is pushing for expansion of fundamental infrastructure such as running water, electricity, and roads. These not only create short-term jobs, they make it possible for long-term, sustainable growth.
And I say to you, Mr. President, bravo! This is the sort of "compassion" we need from our leaders. You have faced abuse and humiliation at the hands of your enemies the likes of which have never been seen in American politics and you not only survived, but you have continued to care about and for this magnificent nation. Thank you, sir. Thank-you very much.