Mitt Romney has come under fire for his remarks about the London Olympics, referring to their security problems with manpower shortages and a threatened strike. He was probably also thinking of the recent attacks on a busload of Jews in Bulgaria, as well as the potential for violence in a place noted for soccer hooligans and conflicts with the Muslim population, at a time when vast numbers of people will be pouring into the country from all over the world for this event. Apparently one reporter said there had been some British grumbling or apathy about the Olympics -- until Romney made his remarks.
It might be more diplomatic and statesmanlike to pretend none of these problems exist. In any case, referring to reality is not the same as Obama's active insults to England, returning the bust of Churchill, for instance, and sending videos as a gift. And one can't help but contrast the Obamas' cringe-making attempt to bring the Olympics to Chicago, when Michelle Obama tried to drum up pity for her little house in Chicago and her dad's illness, with the fact that Ann Romney's dressage horse is competing in the Olympics. Ann Romney has multiple sclerosis and rides for therapy. She can afford it, but she's still got m.s.
There's certainly no politician who's had as much experience with the Olympics as Romney. If he lets a bit of honesty slip out from time to time, someone will be offended, but someone will be offended no matter what.
Comments