What was new at Tocqueville: September 24, 2004


Photo Rumsfeld on Iraqracy: Just right
Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld's comments (here) about the need to hold elections promptly in Iraq will attract scepticism from many corners. Nevertheless they capture the democratic imperative. What must be done in Iraq, as Tocqueville's Gregory Fossedal, Jack Kemp, and others have insisted for more than 18 months, is to hold the best (perforce imperfect) elections that can be held, and soon. Then more, as more areas become secure. Then more, as national issues arise. And more and more. The way to build democracy is: "hold elections, stupid." For a helpful primer, click here.