Ella, we like the politics; why shouldn't we keep this thread going?

DougR, thanks for the constructive input on democracies vs. republics. I am not an expert in political theory, but I assume your correction is based on the fact that the US is not a DIRECT democracy. Point well taken, although I think my subsequent discussion about the need for compromise, negotiation, etc. is still valid.

To get back to the original topic, it seems that Lieberman is generally well-regarded by his colleagues, as Gore himself is (campaign bickering notwithstanding). I just wish they didn't feel so compelled to play the "God and morality" card. This persistent moralizing is damaging to the public discourse, and in my opinion most of it is as phony as a three-dollar bill. In my experience those who feel the need to proclaim their superior virtue often possess less of it than their peers (Richard Nixon was one of the most sanctimonious bastards who ever occupied the White House). I would probably feel better about the Lieberman nomination if I didn't think that it was based primarily on moral posturing and Jewish tokenism.