One-issue Politics

Last night Joe Lieberman was defeated in a head-to-head primary election in the great state of Connecticuit. This may not be a big deal to many of us, but it is a sign of the times. Lieberman has served in the Senate since 1989. He is an influencial figure in Washington, working with congressmen from both sides of the aisle and representing views of many mainstream left-minded Americans. So why the loss?

Ned Lamont, a wealthy businessman, ran on one issue... the war in Iraq. Lamont and his supporters painted Lieberman as a Bush cronie and out of touch with most democrats because he is in favor of our soldiers staying the course in Iraq.

This is a scary situation for Dems because their party has lost a key influential figure. Lieberman is no one-issue candidate. His repitoire is prolific and his character impecible (at least by Washington standards). He is no RINO in Donkey's clothing. See ontheissues.org for his voting profile.

With this defeat, Mr. Lieberman is running as an independent in the general election. Surely the left will spend big bucks spinning his record and demeaning his character -- which almost helped them win a Presidential election six years ago (lest we forget). Perhaps Joe will pull enough moderate Democrats and disgruntled Republicans (not to neglect the growing swing voter contingency) to win the Connecticuit election and be an immensely influential (if he is not shunned by the partisan machine) independent (though unabashedly Democrat-at-heart) candidte.

One-issue politics is dangerous. Ignoring a person's overall record for the sake of one issue that may resound with a contingency of voters panders to the less-informed and one-party voters, but weakens the overall perception of those who may be highly-qualified candidates. On the right, politicians tout their anti-abortion and anti-gay marriage record to bring out vocal support all the while disregarding many conservative values (like fiscal restraint and limited government) and some venerable liberal values.

"We the people" are responsible for holing these representatives accountable and influencing them. We are to get to know them and the issues they advocate. We are to pray for them and their colleagues. We are to defend our government and our nation from those who manipulate the system for their gain.

This November, the Democratic party, the voters of Connecticuit, and the candidates themselves will show their true colors. This observer is eager for the moment.

Stick it to 'em Joe!