U.S. versus The World

I try to focus OkiePundit on matters related to Oklahoma but it is undeniable that we are not isolated, that what happens in Bali or Buenos Aires also often affects Oklahomans. It's with this global scope in mind that I want to draw your attention to just how out of step our foreign policy is with that of most other countries. I wouldn't argue that the U.S. needs to compromise our principles or allow others to determine a foreign policy for us that is not in our best interests. But I would argue that a principle-centered foreign policy would be in our best interest and that such a standard often eludes us.

The examples below illustrate the isolationist voting of the United States on important selected issues over a two-decade period at the United Nations:

U.S. Voting Record

Ending the US embargo against Cuba 155 countries voted Yes 2 countries voted No
Abolition of land mines treaty 133 countries voted Yes Only the U.S, voted NO
UN Convention on rights of children 180 countries voted YES Only the U.S. and Somalia voted NO
Condemnation of Israel for human rights abuse 121 countries voted YES Only the US voted NO

Can so many other nations be wrong? Why do we so often find ourselves totally alone in our stance? What does this tell us?

Brad Henry a bi-partisan leader?

Brad Henry is talking bi-partisanship and his transition team tends to confirm his desire to be a governor for ALL of Oklahoma. There are a lot of Republicans on that transition team. Even Governor Keating's former chief-of-staff, Ken Lackey, is on the team. That's a good start. Let's hope it's not window-dressing.

Robert Butkin is weilding big influence with Governor-elect Henry - that's good news for anyone interested in honest, crony-free government. Butkin, widely respected by Democrats, Republicans and independents, is said to be in charge of vetting cabinet postings. Let's hope he searches out the best candidates for the cabinet. Invariably, the best candidates are those who don't put themselves forward for the posts. The really good ones have to be sought out and asked in the name of public service.

If they want it so much to ask for it or demand it, please don't give it to them Mr. Henry.

Henry Cabinet?

Among the names being tossed around for Governor-elect Brad Henry's cabinet include former Tulsa mayor Rodger Randle, or Senate staff director Connie Irby as Henry's pick for Secretary of Commerce. Former state senator Brooks Douglas for Secretary of Tourism. Former state senator Paul Muegge for Secretary of Agriculture. Former Keating chief-of-staff Ken Lackey as Henry's chief-of-staff. Former OU football coach Barry Switzer can have any slot he wants.