Arnold Steinberg is a political strategist and analyst, the author of graduate texts on politics and media, and an expert on political campaigns.’ He also has been involved in foreign policy and national security.
I have just read the statement by Congressman Adam Schiff in support of President Barack Obama’s so-called “deal” with Iran.
What bothers me more than his position is his disingenuous and tortured statement.
As the ranking Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, Adam Schiff is taken seriously.
Indeed, in that position, he would have known that President Obama was provided briefings by the intelligence community on the likely rise of ISIS. President Obama either did not read those briefings (he often refused oral briefings) or did not take them seriously.
His gross miscalculation of ISIS is a matter of record, but obviously not a concern to the partisan Congressman Schiff.
I only mention ISIS because you would think Obama's clear incompetence would weigh on Schiff.
Congressman Schiff is not as stupid as some of his colleagues, some of whom are clueless on foreign policy.
Thus, his position is significant and increases the probability the Iran “deal” will go forward.
My conclusion, harsh as it sounds, is that he wanted to back this “deal” to solidify his position among the Democratic leadership in the House; and, after a song-and-dance to suggest good faith inquiry, he went for the inevitable conclusion.
President Obama’s policies, in general, and this Iranian policy, in particular, are contrary to U.S. interests.
Congressman Schiff is in a malapportioned district that favors him.
I have called Congressman Schiff’s office and politely left a message.
If any viable Democrat opposes him in the primary, or any viable Republican opposes him in the general, I will VOLUNTEER my services to try to defeat him.
I find him nothing short of an embarrassment.
In post World War II America, major agreements — whether SALT I under Nixon or or the Reagan-Gorbachev arms agreement — are supported on a bipartisan basis — both parties are involved.
The lack of any Republican support for this agreement does not indicate Republican partisanship, but Obama’s arrogant recklessness.
Years from now, I hope people remember the political courage of those Democrats who stand up to Obama and Pelosi, and the cowardice of those Democrats, like Schiff.
Schiff's position will be part of his legacy.
Let him explain it to his children and grandchildren.
As time goes on during the 60-day period, there will be more disquieting information about this Iranian “deal.” That’s really a good word, rather than agreement, which is too dignified.
Obviously, Congressman Schiff felt the need to support it as soon as possible, to give it momentum.
Too bad he could not have been more deliberative and thoughtful, as he had earlier implied.
There will be opportunities in the coming weeks for Congressman Schiff and other impetuous supporters to reconsider.
Let’s see if he and others show the wisdom and courage to do the right thing.
He can still rehabilitate himself.
