I have been very frustrated with the blogosphere’s coverage of the debates. I’ll grant you that most bloggers have a definite political slant. We are no different here at Nakedvillainy. While I push towards the middle and the Minister of propaganda (very rarely) shouts from the left sideline, Nakedvillainy is at the end a very conservative blog because Mike is very conservative.

So it’s not the slant.

What bothers me is the refusal to look at both sides fairly.

Kevin Drum’s roundup on the debate is the first I have seen that actually takes BOTH sides to task for dishonesty.

Some of the inaccuracies reported by Mr. Drum seem rather minor to me. But the second listed under Bush is one that has been bothering me for some time: Bush’s claim that the people on the ground did not request additional troops is patently false. And he has to know it. And it is a serious issue.

From time to time, a President will go against the advice of his officers, cabinet officials, political majordomos or what have you. That’s leadership.

But, if the decision turns out to be a mistake, it is wrong to lie about the advice given by your people - effectively shifting the blame: “It’s the generals’ fault! They never told me that more troops were required!”

It shows a refusal to accept the consequences of one’s choices and immaturity.

It shows a lack of reflection that bodes ill for future decision-making.

I would love to see Analphilosopher explain how Bush isn’t a liar in this circumstance. I doubt it will happen.

Would the Maximum Leader and Foreign Minister please read through Drum’s analysis and give me their reaction?

And please, none of the “Well, the other side does it too!” We are agreed on that.

I would like my two right wing colleagues to express opinions about the following:

1) Which of Drum’s “Lies by Bush” were actually lies?

2) Do they matter?

3) On a relative scale, do lies about foreign policy and the war more harmful than lies about domestic policy?

4) Are you troubled, in the least little bit, by your man’s statements? As someone who is seriously troubled by the Democratic candidate on a host of issues, I am amazed by the seemingly blanket acceptance of Bush by the right. Give us a peek inside your minds.