> So now there's almost no visible constituency opposed to
> welfare "reform," the death penalty, etc. etc.
And elsewhere (PEN-L) wrote
> For example: "Are you in favor of the death penalty for
> persons convicted of murder?"
>
> yes no
> white 77.2 16.5
> black 58.6 32.4
> Hispanic 61.0 33.8
Sure, Clinton could have been vehemently anti-death penalty, and could have had a nice law career somewhere. What would you suggest in this case? Any candidate who meets your standards is prima facia un-electable.
Regarding welfare reform, it's interesting that in the months leading up to the passage of welfare reform, The Nation (e.g.) had NO articles on the subject. The issue immediately following passage heartily condemned it. Clinton had no political cover for a veto and would likely have been defeated in the election that followed shortly thereafter. He was smart enough to look at the polls. Better he should have vetoed it and let Dole do the signing?
-- bill