In one sense, is the complaint by former Surgeon General Richard Carmona much more than a blip on the pandering radar screen? And, given the “faith-based” push for abstinence-only sex education programs by this administration (faith that teenagers will remain abstinent after such a course?) combined with the anti-gay record of the man nominated to be his successor, Dr. James Holsinger Jr., it’s not at all surprising. Nor is his complaint about how politicized his position has become.
For example, he said he wasn't allowed to make a speech at the Special Olympics because it was viewed as benefiting a political opponent. However, he said was asked to speak at events designed to benefit Republican lawmakers.
“The reality is that the nation's doctor has been marginalized and relegated to a position with no independent budget, and with supervisors who are political appointees with partisan agendas,” said Carmona, who served from 2002 to 2006.
Relax, Dr. Carmona. At least you weren’t asked to do medical opposition research during the 2004 campaign. Or maybe you were? Did you have anything to do with the Kerry botox and suntan brouhahas?
Meanwhile, GOP flackery goes through the motions more and more every day.
Responding, the White House said Carmona was given the authority and had the obligation to be the leading voice for the health of all Americans.
“It’s disappointing to us if he failed to use his position to the fullest extent in advocating for policies he thought were in the best interests of the nation,” said Deputy Press Secretary Tony Fratto. “We believe Dr. Carmona received the support necessary to carry out his mission.”
My question: Do guys like Tony Fratto really believe what they say? Are they true believers or the brainwashed? Or are they just bullshitters trying not to laugh up their sleeves during press conferences?
And, question No. 2: Will our Democratic Senators be sure to hold the line and File 13 Holsinger's nomination?
Cross posted at SocraticGadfly.
