A reputation takes years to build, but it can be demolished in short order. Ralph Nader, already considered a pariah by many, risks making a mockery of whatever remains of his legacy as he mounts yet another presidential bid. It’s sad to see him spend his life’s final chapters on vanity projects like this. If he’s serious about bringing attention to corporate greed and malfeasance, there are plenty of other ways he could get his message out. I’m baffled as to why Nader hasn’t made better use of the Internet and joined forces with other consumer advocates. Why hasn’t he written more books, produced documentaries, or funneled more resources into grass-roots organizations that might actually be better positioned to achieve some of the changes for which he claims to be fighting? In the present political climate, Nader’s campaign won’t even be a sideshow. It will be a joke.
Well said.
I appreciated Ralph Nader and Winoa LaDuke’s joint contribution in helping the Green Party to achieve major party status, at least for a while. I also think much of the spoiler discussion from that time is misdirected.
However, I believe that there are clear differences between McCain and Obama (or Clinton). I am optimistic for this country’s future. Nader will not be filling a void, just acting as a sideshow.
You do see what’s coming, don’t you? He will siphon off ‘soft’ votes form the democratic party and God help us if McCain gets in. I respect what he’s been through on behalf of our great nation, but no way do we allow thirty years of occupation take hold. The seeds were planted with Bush, sr. No way.