Why do some politicians shun the word "liberal"?

[terrya]

The right wing are the ones who have seemed to made the word "liberal" a dirty word in this country. But yet, liberalism and liberals in general have brought so much good to this country.

Why can't certain politicans (I'm thinking of one in particular who's a candidate for President) embrace the word "liberal"?

Terry...asking a ridiculously naive question, I know. But I'd like to hear your thoughts about it.

[peekaloo]

1. liberals

enjoy sex.

[mobuto]

2. Because Americans associate it with being "weak"

Why? I don't know. Theodore Roosevelt was a liberal. FDR was a liberal. Jack Kennedy was a liberal. Its just a stereotype that seems to have come out of nowhere. Liberals are stronger on national defense than conservatives; liberals have done more to fight crime; liberals spend far less taxpayers' money. I know I'm preaching to the choir, but its really bizarre.

[emulatorloo]

3. Right Wing has perverted the term - sadly it is un-redeemable

in the current rhetorical climate. OTOH I don't see that JK is really running from it or denying it - his strategy is more to talk about the issues and frame them in ways most people can support and say "If that's liberal, so be it. . .repubs would rather label than talk issues and I think Am people are tired of labels."

[chefgirl]

4. Well, this might explain it a little

liberal. n:
1)one who is open-minded or not strict in the observance of orthodox, traditional or established ways

adj:
1)of or befitting a man of free birth
2)marked by generosity and open-handedness
3)broad minded, tolerant
4)of or constituting a political party in the U.S. associated with the ideals of individual economic freedom, greater individual participation in government and constitutional, political, and administrative reforms designed to secure these objectives

The RW can't possibly 'embrace' the word liberal. The very concept is antithetical to everything they stand for.
Can anyone even begin to imagine a broad minded, tolerant, open-handed, generous Republican??

Didn't think so.

-chef-