Senator Elect Jim Webb of Virginia has shown one of the clearer examples that a “new tone” and civility in Washington only applies to Republicans when it comes to actual interaction with others. In matters of civil discourse it takes two to tango as our President discovered as early as the Spring of 2001. No amount of civility can be effective when only exhibited by one side of the interaction. At a reception for freshman lawmakers, Webb rebuffed the President in rude fashion when responding to a well intentioned question. When a polite response would have sufficed, Webb took the low road as we so often see these days.
The office of the President demands respect and while one may not agree with the policies of a politician it is something best dealt with in a civil manner and in the proper forum. Webb could have politely answered the question posed by the President who inquired as to the welfare of Webb’s son who is currently a Marine stationed in Iraq, instead he chose confrontation in an inappropriate forum. Webb may well have concerns about the way the war is being prosecuted and have some better ideas but they are best brought up on the Senate floor and not in an orientation session.
Jim Webb, President, Marine, Iraq
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