I haven’t tracked all of BP’s posts, so I can’t speak for what “indications” there might have. I can definitely see where allmendream and perhaps philman have chosen to characterize BP’s posts into saying something beyond what was actually written. Taken out of the full context, it would be very easy to misconstrue BP’s personal intent.
Thanks, edge. I haven’t followed this thread closely enough to get into the nitty gritty, but I will say this. I feel I knew BP pretty well. We posted to ea other, but we also sent PMs. I never saw a racist bone in his body, or anything that could even be tertiarilly construed as bigotry. What I saw was a true patriot who cared profoundly about the Framers’ intent, and who did everything he could to discover it and communicate it.
Speaking of communication. BP, if you happen to read this, please forgive me for what I’m about to say. However, in my most earnest opinion, you are not the world’s foremost communicator. You are THE person I’d want on hand in a life-or-death crisis, because you’re the type who could keep a cool head and act w lightning speed while others panicked. If, however, I wanted a critical letter written, one that had to be phrased just right in every word, you’re not the person I’d come to. I noted, over the period of our long association, that your big pictures ideas were great, but your ability to accurately and unambiguously communicate them somewhat less so. Again, forgive me but I am speaking w unvarnished honesty here.
I just hope a good man wasn’t banned due to less than stellar communication skills. In a case like this, would there be any harm in putting the question directly? I.e.: ‘BP, do YOU think only WASPs should occupy the Oval Office, or are you merely offering the results of your research, however accurate or flawed it and/or your interpretation may be?’
He was a good FRiend. I will miss him.