The Kerry Doctrine

Hugh Hewitt hits the nail on the head:

From the just released excerpts of John Kerry's remarks tonight:

"I defended this country as a young man and I will defend it as President. Let there be no mistake: I will never hesitate to use force when it is required. Any attack will be met with a swift and certain response. I will never give any nation or international institution a veto over our national security. And I will build a stronger American military."

This is an extraordinary statement for at least two reasons.

First, that Kerry has to make these assurances is an admission that the public's doubts about his credibility as commander-in-chief are deep and enduring. The promises of a few minutes cannot overcome a record of thirty years. When Kerry says he will build a stronger American military, it is like hearing Michael Moore promise that his next feature film will be pro-Bush. Both statements proceed from fixed records that impeach them even as they hit paper.

Second, it is clear that even on this night when America is asking what would Kerry do about growing threats like that in Iran, and Kerry's answer is clear: "Any attack will be met with a swift and certain response." The Kerry Doctrine: Once we get clobbered, I'll try and figure out how to strike back.