Apology for Mark Dayton

Remember Sorry Everybody?

Well, had I a digital camera, I’d today be snapping away in apology for the Pioneer Press institutional editorial praising the "rhetorical charge" of Mark Dayton against the confirmation of Condoleeza Rice. I don’t know what’s worse, the hackneyed description of Dayton’s speech as rising “to the best traditions of that storied [Senate] chamber” or that someone would have that thought.

As proud as I was to be associated with the Pioneer Press for its courageous endorsement of President Bush and the professional manner in which it laid out a series of logical reasons for the choice, I am that ashamed of an editorial that praises a man who vulgarizes a legitimate policy disagreement by calling the now-secretary of state a liar.

The editorial calls Dayton “the loyal opposition.” Indeed he is the opposition, but he cannot be portrayed as “loyal.” A “loyal opposition” seeks through its opposition to better those it opposes for the betterment of all, not destroy its opponents for the benefit of none but itself.

Have Dayton’s comments made America a more civil country? Have they served to unite us in any way? Have they strengthened America in the eyes of the world? Have they enhanced the ability of America to move foreign policy forward? Have they demonstrated any insight into the way Americans govern themselves? Have they accomplished anything?

Have they detracted from any legitimate debate about the president’s foreign policy?

And this is what the Pioneer Press amateurishly gushes is in the best traditions of the storied Senate Chamber -- Liar, liar, pants on fire . . . .

World, I am so sorry.