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January 5, 2001/Tevet 17, 5761, Vol. 53, No.14
WWGDEditorialThe profile of the George W. Bush presidential administration is taking form. There is the politically correct racial and ethnic mix, including a few women and a token Democrat. There is the expected slight variation on philosophy and ideology, with respectful reference back to Bush the elder and new blood to placate younger Republicans.There is the predictable lament of the Democrats that their reign has ended and the equally predictable gloating of the Republicans that after eight long years their time has come. But amid the giddy anticipation of some, and the grave consternation of others, there is cause for concern for Jews. While Secretary of State-designate Gen. Colin Powell assures that Israel remains a priority, he has indicated he will strive for a more even-handed approach in the Middle East, with greater weight given to Palestinian aspirations and relations with "moderate" Arab states. Attorney General-designee Sen. John Ashcroft's record on church/state issues is troubling, particularly his advocacy of Bush's charitable choice initiative to funnel federal funds to social programs operated by religious groups. Ashcroft's longstanding opposition to reproductive choice and narrow construction of affirmative action also are problematic for many Jews. During the coming weeks of confirmation hearings, when we are still guessing WWGD - What Would George Do? - we must call on our senators to raise critical questions that flush out Bush nominees' positions. Powell should be asked to explain what it means to shore up relations with the Arab states and how he defines making Israel's security a "priority." Ashcroft should be pressed to articulate his interpretation of church/state separation and what kinds of governmental activities he believes fall within constitutional purview. Further, he should be prodded to describe his understanding of the scope of the attorney general's responsibilities and power. It's time now to ask questions and demand answers, and not to wait and then bemoan what George did and what we didn't do. |
