Gov't. For Sale - Really?
Reader comment on item: Government for Sale [to the Saudis]

Submitted by Ray Quigley (United States), Dec 3, 2002 at 14:04

I am generally (about 90+%) in accord with your positions. However, in this instance I am concerned that you have fallen into the trap which declares any thought or position at variance with your own is by definition wrong headed.

In particular I call your attention to the reference to Lieberman & Schumer indicating a softness on the part of the Administration in investigating or challenging the Saudi's. You use quotes detailing the implied (or real) criticism of the FBI by Lieberman and the concurrence by Schumer. You go on to challenge Colin Powell as being wrong to say - "I think it's unlikely that Prince Bandar or Her Royal Highness would do anything that would support terrorist activity".

You then neatly say, as evidence that Powell is wrong in his statement, "a most unusual endorsement, given that the FBI is actively investigating this matter."

Well, Mr. Pipes, which is it? Is the FBI "actively investigating the matter" or is the Administration ignoring it? You can't have it both ways - especially not in the same paragraph.

You also state - "the most embarrassing display by the administration, however, came from the distaff side. Colin Powell's wife Alma and the president's mother Barbara - both of whom have a history of socializing with the princess - called Haifa al-Faisal on the telephone to express what the New York Times delicately termed their "support and sympathy."

Tell me, Mr. Pipes, since when are Alma Powell and Barbara Bush members of this administration? ...
Additionally, many might consider it, at least until proven otherwise, proper and the right thing to do to express sympathy to a friend when you honestly feel they have been unjustly attacked. ...

As earlier indicated I am usually in accord with your sentiments and concerns ... It is quite proper to disagree publicly. But to attack and attempt to discredit those with whom we may disagree occasionally, ...such as those by Mrs. Powell & Mrs. Bush as indicative of some malfeasance by the administration, is not acceptable.

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