port security--WH 08 edition

Who gains, who loses politcally? Of the likely candidates, Hillary has legislation that is nationalistic (all ports must be American owned). Edwards in his senate days had a bill on port security that he can point to, but he really hasn't said much on the UAE deal. Clark has spoken out very clearly on this issue, saying it doesn't matter who owns the port, we need to make sure the containers are checked here and their originations points.

Winner: Clark and maybe Clinton. Hillary's stance is one that in theory would play well in the heartland and plays off the GOP's fearmongering of Arab countries, but then again, it is Hillary, and the heartland will still hate her for various other reasons. Clark cut to heart of the matter and disagreed with Clinton while not saying he is against her bill, as George Stephanopolis wanted him to say. In fact, this issue is a winning one for Clark, because it plays into his national security and foreign affairs strength. It is one less time that he has to try to talk about domestic stuff, which he was clearly less confortable with in 2004.

As far as the GOP WH 08 race, McCain seems to be coming to Bush's defense ("Could you spare a few more staffers for my campaign, George?") by telling everyone to take a deep breath about it. Frist is staking out some breathing space between him and Bush by asking for a delay...which is just to give Bush more time to sell/hope people forget about it. I haven't heard from the other folks about the deal.

My problem is not necessarly the fact that UAE is in charge, although they aren't as trustworthy as i would like. my issue is that bush broke the law again and doesn't care.