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October 31, 2008

The real tragedy of Obama-Khalidi — pandering

Is what’s in the original L.A. Times story besides what’s on the “controversial” tape of Obama’s visit at Khalidi’s farewell to Chicago dinner. And, that “rest of the story” is the degree Obama was in the pocket of the Israel lobby long before being elected to the Senate
Already in 2000, for example, he wrote a policy paper supporting a unified Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.

Now, as to the WHY of that paper, it’s obvious. He was currying Jewish votes in his House primary run against Bobby Rush.

In other words, already in 2000, Obama, while trying to be connected with people who were more truly progressive, was currying favors with neolib types at the same time.

His 2002 signup for an Illinois statehouse resolution calling on Palestinians to renounce violence? More of the same, coupled with his partially political antiwar speech and seeing Illinois about to go Democratic in state government.

Just.Another.Politician.™

That said, the tragedy ultimately goes beyond Obama. The idea that one has to pander to the Israel lobby to run for a House seat, not even a Senate one, is sad indeed. It is also somewhat of an argument for public financing of Congressional elections.

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