DCFOUNTAIN.COM

At least some of the anger expressed during these rallies seems to result from disbelief at the real prospect of Republicans losing control of the White House, with the party already having lost its grip on Congress two years ago. Some Republicans apparently think they deserve a monopoly on power and are willing to resort to whatever smears and negative attacks necessary to win. Truth becomes irrelevant.

Yet with polls showing McCain down even in many solidly “red” states — and consistently trailing nationally by 5-10 points — some are beginning to realize that all the lies and character attacks they can muster may not save their candidate. As one angry, clearly exasperated supporter recently shouted at McCain, “How the hell did we get to this point?”

That’s a whole other essay with at least a dozen answers — half of which include the name George W. Bush. But here’s the simple, straight-talk answer to your question, mister, in case your candidate was unable to provide it. It’s called “democracy.” And if that’s not something you’re willing to accept, then maybe you would be more content living under a monarchy or dictatorship. I hear Russia is moving in that direction, so go check it out.

For a candidate who throughout his adult life has professed to prize honor above all else, and who as recently as this spring was promising to run a “respectful” campaign, this ugly, win-at-any-cost strategy does little to unite the country, or to inspire trust and confidence in our nation’s leadership.

Let’s hope McCain soon has some much-earned time off to reflect on his failure to tamp down that divisive tone — and its overall impact both on his campaign and the nation.

Photo: TimothyJ