PINKtank

A woman president would be wonderful, as would anyone who is the best qualified candidate regardless of their race, religion, or political affiliation.

The fundamental flaw with asserting a CODEPINK member would be a competent leader is the presumption that CODEPINK affiliation is a meaningful qualifier. CODEPINK makes known the beliefs it supports (and the even-greater number of those it opposes) but fails to establish the critical link that equates those beliefs with an ability to successfully govern, which includes honoring and supporting those beliefs which may not be their own, but which are necessary for responsible government or represent the collective will of the nation.

Such is the case with CODEPINK’s recent appearance at the AIG bonus hearings. Reflecting no consideration of the material facts, (i.e. the bonuses were not “performance” bonuses, they were contractual payments for specific services successfully provided by those who were not responsible for the need to subsidize AIG, and both the treasury secretary and congress had approved their payment), the desire to reflect a “stance” took precedence over the realities it purported to espouse.

For affinity with any particular organization to be considered a qualifier for a successful candidate, that organization must first have earned the credibility it seeks to impart. In the case of CODEPINK, and despite the thousands of women who could and would be effective presidents, I’m afraid I don’t agree.