A friend of mine considers himself really “into” politics. He describes himself with such nebulous terms as “socially aware” and is quick with the answer for everything – that Bush is a stupid liar. In reality, he really has no position on anything exactly, he just loves to hate. Perhaps you know people like this too. People with bumper stickers that say “I Hate Bush” or “Impeach Bush”. There is little sense in discussing anything pertinent with this kind of hater because they have only one item on their agenda: to hate the President.

 In fact, try this the next time that you encounter such a hate monger…

 Ask him why gasoline prices are so high. Use caution! Because rather than presenting a cogent argument or perhaps offering a particular position, they will likely become red-faced, sputtering, and shaking as they yell about how Bush and his cronies are ripping off the American people. Don’t bother pointing out that the President does not set gasoline prices in this country. This does not really matter because people who love to hate already have the answer before you even ask the question.

They may stomp their feet and shake their fists as they say “Yeah, but Bush should make a law that lowers gas prices but he is just a stupid liar.” Without going into the disastrous history of government price controls or even asking just what it is that he lied about, you could point out that the President is not the one who makes laws in this country – that is the job of Congress. You can be sure that at this point, you will see an embarassing tantrum into the predictable mantra of “Bush lied – Bush lied!”

At this point, as we knew, there is no use trying to discuss any matter any further.

 What about the fact that the oil producers in the middle-east have raised prices due to increased demand? “Bush lied and invaded Iraq just to get free oil.” Hmmm. (When pitting logic against emotion, emotion will seem to win because of all of its drama.)

What about decreased refinery capacity due to Hurrican Katrina? “Bush is stupid and the hurricane was his fault anyway because he could have made a law to stop global warming.”

Regardless, the hate-lover will likely revert to his reflex slogan of “Bush lied.” But this sort of brain washing is prevalent today. Ask people running for office for a position on something. How many times do you hear the same sort of thing?

What would you do about Iraq if you are elected? “Well I can tell you what NOT to do.”

What would you do if you got elected? “Impeach Bush.”

On the Supreme Court nominations – “As soon as we see who Bush nominates, we will oppose it.”

No, hate is not a platform to run on. Hate is not productive. Hate does not stand up to the simplest analysis. Hate is not a position.

To any haters out there: Forget about your “I Hate Bush” bumper stickers and your anti-Bush rallies. Realize that in two years, Bush will not be President anymore. Instead of just saying “Thank God!” come up with some sort of position on something. He will not be around to supply you with anything to complain about. You will be on your own. I may not agree with your position, but then at least we will have something to discuss.?