Bridging a Divide -- and Crossing an Ocean
This article, from the Washington Post, talks about a congressional trip to the Middle East, organized by Nancy Pelosi. The trip has been criticized as "bad behavior" and an attempt to "embarrass the president". Representative David Hobson (R-Ohio) has also received criticism for being the sole republican on the trip. I think Hobson makes an excellent point when he says "It is important for lawmakers from both parties to travel together to lend credibility to the trip and present a cohesive message to foreign governments". I really don't understand how these actions have insulted the president and I think it makes a far better rapport and reputation for the United States when Congress is more hands on and involved. It's crucial for our Representatives and Senators to understand the full situation in the Middle East since they are the ones proposing the legislation that will, in turn, greatly affect the people of the Middle East.
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I agree. I was sort of one of those people who wasn't sure how good of an idea this was for Speaker Pelosi and all of those who went along. The truth is that the U.S. could go a long way in foreign policy without the threats of war to start the process. If this administration refuses to talk with a country, just talk about international challenges even with nations like Syria, how can we ever really fight terrorism effectively? The last time any U.S. official spoke diplomatically to Syria was in 1994. It was long overdue.
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