Bob Kerrey on Lieberman: "I wanted to endorse him on the spot." [View All]

[dolstein]

Hold the Applause!
(September 4, 2003)
Sen. Bob Kerrey in the Wall St. Journal


. . .

I have not yet endorsed any of the candidates partly because I call most of them friends and because I am watching the campaigns and the way the candidates are conducting themselves. Among the characteristics I look for is the courage and independence to stand up and tell us something we don't want to hear. I want a leader who will tell us that sometimes we may be part of the problem. It's easy for politicians to say what people want to hear. My vote goes with the candidate who is willing to tolerate a round of boos to say what he thinks is right.

One notable example of that was Joe Lieberman's recent performance before a national gathering of labor leaders. Knowing that some of his views would be unpopular, Mr. Lieberman stood his ground and reaffirmed his support for open markets and free trade and for private school voucher experiments for poor children. He was loudly booed, and in response Mr. Lieberman said, "I'm going to speak the truth; I'm going say what I think is best for America regardless." I wanted to endorse him on the spot. He understands that America has always performed at its best when leaders know how to lead.

. . .

http://www.joe2004.com/site/News2?page=NewsArticle&id=5773&JServSessionIdr012=a3tc0rkkh5.app20a&news_iv_ctrl=1021