Friday, May 23, 2008

JOHN McCAIN'S PARALLEL UNIVERSE?

One of the more interesting developments during this presidential season has been the transformation of John McCain. A one-time "Maverick" who took shots at right wing religious fanatics and special interests, McCain learned the lessons of republican politics well during his first presidential run in 2000.

Specifically, McCain learned that in order to win the hearts of Conservatives he would have to break with his principles and embrace both groups if he was going to succeed in his quest for the White House. In the process, McCain lost his political soul and has given himself up to Conservative Puppet Masters. This might not be all bad if McCain had the energy to stand up for himself. But, alas, not only has McCain been muttering inconsistent and incoherent thoughts on Iraq, war, and the economy, but he seems tired on the campaign trail.

Fast forward to a parallel universe in 2268. We see another respected leader propped up by selfish and egotistical forces, bent on promoting their interests above those of society. In the Star Trek episode "Patterns of Force" John Gill is a former Starfleet professor who breaks Starfleet principles laid out in the Prime Directive (don't get personally involved in the affairs of planets).

By breaking with principles laid out in the Prime Directive, Gill exposes himself to the militarism of Melakon (rhymes with "neo-con") and other evil forces that drug and use his tired body to pursue war and rule society.













While there is no doubt that McCain is not drugged like Star Trek's John Gill, there is also little doubt that both McCain and Gill compromised basic principles that led both to be manipulated by Puppet Masters they, under different circumstances, would have rebuked.

Unfortunately, the prospect of winning the presidency has created a toxic brew of special interests and compromised principles that John McCain seems only too eager to drink. In the process, The Maverick has become The Puppet of Conservative forces he simply cannot control.

- Mark

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