Watch Your Temper, George

As I watched an exclusive interview that George W. Bush recently did with Matt Lauer for the special 9/11 edition of the Today Show, I realized something. What has gone out the window with past American leaders (like Clinton, for instance) is the distinguished, polished and diplomatic tastefulness that George W. Bush undeniably lacks.

As Matt Lauer questioned him about the CIA prisons where many terrorist suspects have been held, Bush grew more and more reactive and distasteful. It reminded me of how a small child reacts when you question them about something they shouldn't have been doing. He kept reiterating how the methods had been lawful. Matt Lauer, as any responsible journalist would, questioned Bush's definition of lawful in this instance. If the international community is questioning these methods, then why not give our leader the chance to defend those actions? Instead, Bush kept insisting, "I'm not going to discuss techniques, Matt." He also played the very poor line of refusing to answer only to help protect our people. He didn't want to give away any secrets that would help future terrorists override CIA tactics.

The overarching question since 9/11 has been that of political and civil ethics. Does the unjustifiable deaths of thousands of Americans justify political and civil injustice? Just as the terrorists tainted American life and freedom, I'm afraid this administrations actions have also become self-defeating and destructive. So, I guess this is what you get when I party's platform rests mostly on religion and being down-to-earth. I think for future reference, these traits should be reserved for judging neighbors and acquaintances rather than our President.