Dear Van, I tried to find a way to contact you privately, but this was the best I could do, so here goes... I was very disappointed by you, for a specific line of questioning you pursued in your interview with Tulsi Gabbard. In that interview, you said that people have objected to her meeting with the Syrian President. You elaborated by saying that people have been asking [about Tulsi]: "Oh, is she now an apologist for Assad? Is she now with Assad? Is she now like Assad?" Van, this is the same mud that was slung at opponents of the Iraq War, when commentators tried to suggest that anti-war activists were fond of Saddam. Tulsi is one of the few politicians with the courage to stand-up against our CIA's effort at regime change in Syria (Google: "Timber Sycamore") You should be ashamed for using these tactics against Tulsi (a veteran, no less). And yes, you are responsible for the smear, even though you use the Trumpian "people are saying..." line. That is only acceptable if you NAME the people who are saying this. Or at least tell people that journalists are being sent these exact talking points about Tulsi, written by the same people who supported the Iraq War. By omitting this crucial context, YOU are part of the problem, YOU are one of the people responsible for deceiving the American people and YOU are making it possible for the next illegal war to be fought in our name. I used to think you were one of the good guys. But I will be honest, seeing this level of betrayal, from someone I had such trust in and respect for, it makes me just want to give up on politics entirely. I work hard as an activist, but I can't undo the kind of damage you are doing. Democracy only works if the press does not actively assist in the gasslighting of the people. I am sorry this had to be such a harsh note. And I recognize that honesty may cost you all of your power and influence (but ask yourself: If you are not going to use your power and influence to tell people the truth about war, and a genuine anti-war candidate, then what could possibly be more important than that?) On a personal level, I wish you nothing but peace and love. -Tim
Be the first to comment