Readers of this blog know that I’ve been pretty hard on the editors of the Richmond Times-Dispatch (I was especially – thought deservedly – rough with them during the summer debate on transportation taxes). Still, I try my best to give credit where it’s due – and it is most certainly due the folks at the RTD for their endorsement of John McCain.
It’s not the endorsement per se that earned such praise, it was the rationale – one that desperately needs repeating over, and over, and over again (from their editorial, emphasis added):
We believe that Obama is qualified by temperament to serve as president, though his limited experience does give pause. We believe he possesses the depth and the eloquence to inspire his fellow citizens and to spread America’s message of liberty and freedom abroad.
But we are troubled by many of his policy positions. His devotion to higher taxes on work, capital, innovation, and risk-taking seem particularly dangerous during a year in which the U.S. economy is struggling. His tepid, on-again-off-again support for free trade is equally frightening. He seems not to understand the forces that created the Great Depression nearly eight decades ago — at a moment when that understanding is absolutely essential.
I’ve been saying for weeks now that McCain is better on economic issues than Obama. I’m glad to see I’m not the only one who understands this.
The question is, will enough Americans see it to make the right choice next Tuesday?
Any thoughts on The Free Lance-Star’s endorsements (or lack there of)?