State Department Spokesman, PJ Crowley:
"Certainly from our standpoint, this gives us a sense of momentum — when the United States has accolades tossed its way, rather than shoes."
Is the line a dig at President Bush? Of course it is. Indeed, in many ways the Prize itself is a dig at, if not a repudiation of, Bush.
Is the line true? Absolutely.
Is the line amusing? Yes, yes it is.
Is it “liberal fawning for world acceptance” for the State Department to see the positives in this situation? No, not all.
Look, I have already stated my incredulity at Obama winning the prize after so short a period of time on the world stage, but the fact of the matter is, it is actually in the national interest of the United States for its president to be liked and respected within the international system. I am not talking ponies and sunshine here, but simple facts—one of which is that diplomacy does matter and it is actually better to have one’s president receive accolades rather than being insulted on international television.
Some folks seem to have the bizarre opinion that it is actually better for the US if other countries dislike it. Even theorists who look solely at questions of power understand the importance of diplomacy and communication with other states. So even if the Nobel was awarded oddly, it makes all the sense in the world for the US government, especially the State Department, to try and use the situation to the US’ international advantage. That’s their job.
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October 10th, 2009 at 1:10 pm
How did this statement:
“Certainly from our standpoint, this gives us a sense of momentum — when the United States has accolades tossed its way, rather than shoes.”
further the diplomatic goals of the United States?
October 10th, 2009 at 4:49 pm
It’s what someone once called “the soft bigotry of low expectations”. The Norwegians are essentially saying that it’s a big deal having a president of African heritage that’s smart enough to believe in the same European welfare state model as they. Heck, he can even speak in full sentences.
October 11th, 2009 at 3:04 am
[...] Steven Taylor, who is not known as a fan of liberal causes: Look, I have already stated my incredulity at Obama [...]
October 11th, 2009 at 3:05 am
[...] Posted by JACK GRANT, Assistant Editor in Politics.Oct 11th, 2009 | View commentsComments From Steven Taylor, who is not known as a fan of liberal causes: Look, I have already stated my incredulity at Obama [...]
October 11th, 2009 at 4:26 pm
[...] a context reminder, here again is the portion of Dr. Taylor’s post that Jack quoted: Look, I have already stated my incredulity at Obama winning the prize after so [...]