My question is – for what purpose would  a successful Republican like Colon Powell make a statement like, “the party has a dark vein of intolerance?” 

Is it done so that he will be acceptable on both sides of the fence of politics?  Why didn’t he try helping the party instead of beating  up on the party?  This man had a successful life and it is beyond my realm of thinking that he would make this statement by throwing himself under the bus in this fashion.  Is it that he doesn’t need the party any more?  Wasn’t he the person  who did not want to go into Bagdad, Iraq,  and take over the city and get rid of Saddam and look to fight another day – as we did and lost more treasure?  Maybe that is why he is continuing to beat up on himself!  Quit the beating and quit trying to pull the party down with yourself.  Move on!  History will surface and show the true facts.

kommonsentsjane