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On The Record

5. We used to have a generalized respect for the office of the president and other officials, even when we thought they were witless buffoons. Gone is this baseline patriotism, along with substantive criticism, and the good faith that pushes these conversations toward good and workable policy.

4. I shouldn't even have to say this, but I'd rather take harm myself than have any harm come to the President of the United States.

3. I don't think he was born in Kenya. I may have doubts whether he lives in reality, but I believe he legitimately holds his office. I shouldn't have to say that, either.

2. There is no defensible reason to comment unkindly on the physical appearance of the First Lady of the United States, ever. The holders of said office may well subject themselves to more criticism than less politically-engaged predecessors, but the fact remains that it is a ceremonial position, one of the few we permit ourselves, and we should keep it that way.

1. If you must know, I don't believe our president is closeted Muslim; I believe he is a not very well-closeted secularist, or, if you like, one whose religious professions do not have a meaningful impact on his manner of governing, and this is far worse. Let me add that I rather like the idea of a black president in the abstract, so rich and positive in general has been the black/African-American contribution to the nation. Often, I may add, with no help or outright hostility from the rest of us. What's Will Smith doing in 12 years? Gotta get his head straight on abortion and the like, but so does half the Republican Party, mind you.
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