Opposing Conservative and Liberals Views: Foreign Policy

Conservative (CON): What was especially scary during the campaign was Joe Biden’s statement that we will face a foreign policy crisis during the first six months of an Obama administration because America’s enemies will be eager to test Obama. During the campaign no better argument for the election of John McCain was presented. Unfortunately, it has not been the compelling argument it should have been. The President of the United States is the man in charge of the conduct of our foreign policy. As a nation, we are more secure when we and our enemies know how our President will respond to challenges from our enemies. It will help immensely if a President Obama is able to articulate to the world, to our friends as well as our enemies, a foreign policy that clearly indicates that America will vigorously defend its vital interests in the world. However, when Obama sits down, without preconditions, and talks with the likes of Ahmadinejad, Chavez and the Castros, more confusion than certainty will be created. So, when tested, how will Obama respond? The fact that we are asking this question is bad for America.

Liberal (LIB): Biden may be right. We may be challenged by an enemy. That’s was enemies do. Biden also said that Obama is better suited to meet a crisis and that his response will be appropriate and effective. Obama will vigorously defend our vital world interests. Why would you think otherwise? As for setting “pre-conditions”, the Bush approach, that hasn’t worked. If you meet without preconditions, at least you’re talking and not bombing.