"The errors could prove a political problem for Mr. Obama, who spoke for the second day running about the attack, after three days of silence. Over the weekend, other administration officials, including Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, argued that air-security systems had worked in the attack's aftermath. Campaign consultants for potential Republican presidential challengers in 2012 have been waiting for an opportunity to paint the president as soft on terrorism." (WSJ, 12/30/2009)
Had the recent failed terrorist attack occurred on GWB's watch, RedStateVT has no doubt that critics of President Bush would have held him personally accountable. It would have been an unfair accusation and, therefore, we will not make the charge against President Obama. There are, however, a couple of points that can be made:
First, President Obama does seem to exhibit a certain tone-deaf response when it comes to these national security issues. The "three days of silence" referenced above does not reflect well on him and does not inspire confidence. Recall also his clumsy handling of the Ft. Hood terrorist act.
Second, there is no doubt frustration on the part of various national security organizations given the relentless attacks by many of President Obama's most ardent leftward supporters. We have a certain sympathy for at least some of these folks who are attacked as torturers, human rights abusers, and outright criminals, all the while trying to protect this country from just this kind of act. President Obama need look no further than his Attorney General to find someone who has second guessed (and maligned!) some of these people.
Third, does Janet Napolitano remind readers of another Janet? Why yes! The equally incompetent Clinton era Attorney General Janet Reno!
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