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NEWS >POLITICS > RALPH NADER PLAYS THE IRRELEVANCY CARD

RALPH NADER PLAYS THE IRRELEVANCY CARD

Aug 1 2008

Winsted, CT - There is little doubt that Ralph Nader has had an enormous impact on the American experience. From his activism in the sixties that changed automobile safety forever, to his 2000 Presidential run that arguably handed the election to George W. Bush, Nader’s life has been marked by the mark it has left on all American lives. While that influence and impact may have declined in recent years, Nader is not going out quietly.

Running as an Independent in this year’s election has garnered virtually no attention in the mainstream media, unlike his controversial 2000 campaign. With the media firmly squared on the two mainstream candidates – Barack Obama and John McCain – there is little page room left for Nader or his fellow lower profile candidates such as Bob Barr (Libertarian) or the always interesting Alan Keyes (I).

Much has been made in recent days between the two leading candidates over the role of race in the election campaign; Nader has thrown his hat squarely into that ring.

“Many people may not realize this but I am the first candidate with a serious shot at winning the Presidency that was born of non European, non Anglo-Saxon roots,” Nader was born in Connecticut to Lebanese immigrant parents. “Obama is not the first non white running for office and people need to realize that. He is not the only one who has advocated change; I was changing this country before he was even born. And McCain, I saved more lives than McCain ever did. I’m the reason the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration exists. I am an American hero. And if elected I would be the oldest first term President.”

Nader, who is 74 years old, made the comments at his campaign headquarters and published on his website. Unfortunately no reporters were on hand to hear him speak.

Fellow independent candidate Alan Keyes also spoke up, commenting on the apparent lack of even handedness in the media. “Obama’s black, I’m black. I’m full black and I’ve been running for President forever. You don’t see the media following me around everywhere. The media is biased.” Keyes continued talking until we had to hang up the phone.

“The reality is the mainstream media is looking to cover candidates who have social and cultural relevance,” continued Nader. “But they need to look beyond that. There was a time when I was an important person in America, and now because I am less important I don’t get the same kind of treatment. For truly fair and even handed coverage all people should have a voice, whether anyone cares about listening to them or not.”

When reached for comment, representatives for Barack Obama and John McCain declined to decline comment.

Edward Bastil, Political Correspondent

NEWS >POLITICS > RALPH NADER PLAYS THE IRRELEVANCY CARD