"Today, we know two unequivocal truths about the results of Bush's approach -- there are more terrorists and we have fewer allies."
-- John Edwards. The quote is from advance excerpts of a speech that Edwards will deliver today on terrorism, in which he'll argue that contra Hillary we are less safe today than we were before 9/11. More excerpts from the speech after the jump.
SOME EXCERPTS FROM JRE PREPARED REMARKS:
"For six years, George Bush has hijacked the language of terrorism and used it to force through an ideological agenda that undermines our values and does nothing to undercut terrorism. ... by the Bush Administration's own admission, we are less safe today. Today, we know two unequivocal truths about the results of Bush's approach - there are more terrorists and we have fewer allies."
<...>
"We need a smart national security strategy to shut down terrorists, not a cynical political strategy to shut down debate. Here's mine:
First, I will strengthen our military to better address the threat posed by terrorist groups to the United States. I will strengthen our force structure, hold regular conferences with top military leadership so their advice isn't filtered, and give back military professionals control over major operational decisions. Second, I recognize what our military commanders have made clear - military action is only one of the tools we have to stop terrorism; we have to supplant the lure of violent extremism with the hope of education, opportunity, and prosperity. I will launch a sweeping global effort to provide education, fight poverty, increase democracy and create a 10,000-member strong "Marshall Corps," all to ensure that terrorism does not take root in weak and failing states.
I believe that every candidate for president, Republican and Democrat, understands that there are terrorists who mean us harm and must be stopped. To suggest otherwise is to do exactly what I have criticized the Administration for doing - reduce the fight against terrorists to a bumper sticker slogan and use it for political gain. Using fear as a wedge issue may help win elections, but it won't protect Americans ... we must come together, and cast fear aside."
Edwards will also propose the following, according to the campaign:
* Rebalance our force structure for the challenges of the new century
* Ensure our intelligence strategy adheres to proven and effective methods
* Create a National Security Budget
* Create a "Marshall Corps" to stabilize weak and failing states
* Hold regular meetings with top military leadership
* Rebuild equipment
http://electioncentral.tpmcafe.com/blog/electioncentral/2007/jun/07/quote_of_the_day#comment