Steve Clemons Commentary

State of the Union: in Decline

General William Odom, former director of the National Security Agency, gives his perspective of Bush’s State of the Union address and the president’s plan for Iraq and the Middle East.

A Tale of Two Senators, From Virginia

Though they come from different political parties, oddly enough, two of President Bush’s most powerful critics call Old Dominion home.

Bush's State of Delusion Address

The president added flourish last night on his central strategy for Iraq, but this central reality holds true: Iraqi forces are “standing up”, but they are fighting for militias—and against our troops.

Hot Air on Energy

The energy initiatives proposed in last night’s State of the Union may sound progressive, but their cumulative impact leaves much to be desired.

The Battle over Narrative, Post-Midterms

Since the 9/11 attacks, the White House has controlled the narrative of American politics. It is up for grabs for the first time since.

The Perils of Empire -- And Coalition Building

 "Coalitions" are a popular organizing principle in Washington politics.

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May 26, 2012