Reply #48: I would put him in the OTHER category with GWB and Clinton

[nothingshocksmeanymore]

He is a politician who has some liberal leanings, some conservative leanings and some centrist leanings but he more than anything is shaped by opinion polls rather than shaping them. While opinion polls may have favored the war (based on the questions posed and the manner in which they were posed) Dean saw the opportunity to TAP into a market by opposing the war.

I don't mean this as a slam on him, it is simply easier for him to defend his decision since he wasn't in office and didn't have to make one.
He shaped his opinion on gun control to favor states in order to prevail in states where guns are an issue. He shaped his statements on civil unions and marijuana policy in order to prevail in areas where these items are an issue.

While it is realpolitik to do so anymore, it precludes leadership in a respect since a politician can avoid taking a genuine stand on an issue of great import. Are guns (and their unregulated ownership) less lethal in rural areas?

BTW, I am not decided on a candidate and am NOT against Dean. He is playing to win and this is how he is doing it in my opinion. I just think it sorely ditches issues in a sense.

I have enjoyed watching him and believe he has great charisma and can respond well under the pressure of a debate and communicate. I am less clear of what the ACTUAL communication is other than VOTE FOR ME!