My brother, known on this blog mostly for funny pictures, is also a political science expert working in international development, and one of the most articulate and well-thought-out voices I’ve heard about politics recently:
His comment on the divisions within parties: “The piece from The American Conservative mentioned a civil war within the Republican party during the next four years. A similar struggle is going to take place within the democratic party as it tries to connect with middle America. I worry that the dems will turn to protectionism to find a more populist message.”
On the religious left: “I think there is something to be said for (and hopefully some way to reinvigorate) the Kennedy Catholics- those who look to their faith to press social issues, a faith-based concern for the poor, in the grand tradition of liberation theology and of course Jesus. Unfortunately I think we have a brand of Christianity that has forgotten the proverb “It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven” Instead many think their is no better indication of divine blessing and righteousness than being obscenely rich. Interesting that this strain of American Christianity had its origins in New England, but has migrated south.”
Secretly Ironic 