Eisenhower’s Warning

Technically, lawyers can represent whom they like. However, as a citizen, Mr. Baker’s apparent “conflict of interests,” in representing Mr. Bush, while his name-sake law firm defends the Sauidi Royal family against the 9-11 familes, concerns me and reminds me of General Eisenhower’s (Republican president, 1953-1961) warning to the nation in his farewell speech:

“In the councils of government, we must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the military-industrial complex. The potential for the disastrous rise of misplaced power exists and will persist.

We must never let the weight of this combination endanger our liberties or democratic processes. We should take nothing for granted only an alert and knowledgeable citizenry can compel the proper meshing of huge industrial and military machinery of defense with our peaceful methods and goals, so that security and liberty may prosper together.” [ Text of Farewell Speech ]

It seems to me that far too many of us, Americans all, have neglected our solemn duty to remain vigilant against the danger that General Eisenhower warned us about.

There are some things that do transcend partisanship.