The Great Placater

I finally figured out what was bothering me about the Obama speech at Notre Dame. It actually is one of my pet peeves about elected officials.

Here is a letter I received from a Republican Congressman:
"Thank you for contacting my office with your concerns. It is good to hear from you. In our fast-paced world, I appreciate the fact you took the time to share you views on the issues of importance to you.

"I was elected to represent you in the U. S. House of Representatives; therefore, I will keep your views in mind should this issue be brought to the House Floor for a vote. Americans have many ways of being able to voice their opinions to their lawmakers. I am glad you took advantage of that right you have as a citizen.

"Again, thank you for contacting me. If I can be of more assistance, please feel free to contact me in the future.

"Very truly yours,"

I don't care that it was printed on recycled paper with soy ink.

This congressman didn't tell me his position on the issue. He didn't even mention it in his form letter. His tone was patronizing. He was clear to tell me I had a right to my opinion.

It was a pat on the head from an all-knowing politician.

Obama's speech yesterday was a voice-mail form letter. No commitment to change. No explanation of his position. Nothing more than his approval of the First Amendment, as long as we don't "demonize" him or make of him a "caricature."

That performance might have worked for a moderate, but not for the man who signed overseas abortion orders within the first 48 hours of his presidency. Not for the man who has filled his administration with rabid pro-abortionists in strategic positions. Not for the man with a voting history in Illinois of partial-birth abortion.

His slightly conciliatory tone has more to do with polling numbers than a genuine interest in re-examining the question.

Sorry, I've already got enough form letters.