More on Fairlie

Yesterday I mentioned that I was reading the post humorous work of Henry Fairlie, "Bite the Hand that Feeds You," and today I want to comment on some of his insight into the Reagan conservatism.

Firstly on Reagan Fairlie stated, "The Reaganite conservative does not trust the political system, and so is always trying to circumvent it; he does not trust the instincts Congress, but places profound faith in the wisdom of the executive if he is in charge. . ." I find this statement to highly pertinent in today's political arena especially in describing the modern Republican party. All candidates running for the Republican nomination are required to state their opinions on Reagan, all of which are glowing, because Reaganite conservatism has shown politicians how to turn the government into a dictatorship. The proof being the recent President Bush.

With the simple act of a an Executive Order the president is able to circumvent Congress, and by citing established, prevent possible interference by the Supreme Court. President Bush, an acknowledge Reagan disciple, issued more executive orders than any president and history, and used this power to begin the invasion of another nation. This power allows the president to start wars without the consent of Congress which is elected by the people. Yes the president is commander in chief, but this title is only needed in wartime once war has been declared.

I want to clarify that I believe that Reagan was a good president. He was able to free hostages in Iran, presided over and economically successful nation, and bankrupted the Soviet Union; however, the policies developed and employed by him were misused under Bush II as is highly evident by the legalization of torture under his administration.