Loyalty to American Values

Glenn has a superb analysis of the authoritarian right's demand for a loyalty oath. He concludes with the words of Teddy Roosevelt:

To announce that there must be no criticism of the President, or that we are to stand by the President, right or wrong, is not only unpatriotic and servile, but is morally treasonable to the American public. Nothing but the truth should be spoken about him or any one else. But it is even more important to tell the truth, pleasant or unpleasant, about him than about any one else.

As J.G. Ballard warns, "Fascism always slips into a waiting jackboot." It is easy to see who is goose-stepping around the public square these days. It is a parade of chickenhawks, led by the prince of darkness, Darth Cheney. (Or perhaps you prefer this version?)

The fascist-wannabes will lick the boots of Dear Leader and his Generals. We progessives will remain loyal to American values rather than to American officeholders.