I’m sure he could have been seated elsewhere had he wanted to be. I don’t think he particularly objects to Farrakhan. The Dems were screaming that Sununu was racist for saying that Powell was supporting Obama solely on the basis of his color, but IIRC, Powell even said in 2008 that he would “have to” vote for the black candidate, or something to that effect.
Personally, I think he probably supports Obama’s policies as well, but he didn’t want to come out and say so at that time. He’s less inhibited about it now.
Bottom Line: I don’t think that Powell solid, and do think that he has shown serious flaws.
Just trying to maintain a bit of circumspect consideration in evaluating the situation. No question that associating with Louie is extreme. He does look real comfortable with him. If he has fallen in with such a crowd he is a total loss. Just want to be careful before writing off such a high level person.
If the country that my ancestors emigrated from invited me to a major anniversary celebration and honored me with VIP treatment, got a couple of drinks into me and had a smiling model flatter me, while everyone was celebrating with great music playing - it would be a lot easier for me to be briefly cordial with Calypso Louie - if only to be courteous to the host and not be a party pooper.
Just on the basis of endorsing Obama however, Powell should never be trusted with a position of authority again.