As we know–and as we keep seeing–it’s a lot easier to run for president than it is to be president.
What a presidential candidate says, especially during primary season, is seen in its self-serving context–from pushing Muslim-immigration bans to promising to repeal the Affordable Care Act. It’s motivated by partisan, political ends.
We were reminded of that reality recently when, between the rhetorical excesses of the GOP debates preceding the Iowa caucus and the New Hampshire primary, President Barack Obama spoke at an American mosque. While it only fueled the flames of loathing among much of the Republican base, it was what a president should have done–even if his middle name were Herbert and not Hussein.
As a society–and as a world community–we’re increasingly confronted by existential challenges and threats. The American president is the single most important, powerful global leader. What he says, what he does, and what he is shown doing matters far beyond the scope of petty, partisan politics.
President Obama’s visit to the Islamic Society of Baltimore was pitch perfect. For two reasons.
First, it sent a valid, necessary and reassuring message to American Muslims that they are very much a part of this unique societal tapestry that is America. He notably underscored the point when he said: “You aren’t Muslim or American. You are Muslim and American.”
Well said, Mr. President.
Second, it sent a message to the world’s 2.1 billion Muslims–followers of the world’s fastest-growing religion–that we don’t consider Islam an enemy. Only its perverted, outlier versions, which must be everybody’s enemy.
America is part of–not apart from–this world, even if that sounds like a belittling concession to Marco Rubio. We’re fortunate to have a president willing to make that case, however politically challenging–especially in an election year.