Long past time I would say.
Last week, Kerry's regime change comment drew fire from top congressional Republicans who said the remarks were highly inappropriate with U.S. troops fighting overseas.
Since then, Kerry, a decorated Vietnam War veteran, has defended himself, arguing that unlike his Republican critics, he fought for his right to speak freely. At an elementary school in Iowa, he reminded his listeners of that past conflict and the political dynamic.
"We had an election in the middle of the Vietnam War," Kerry said. "It was the center of that election."
The lawmaker argued that the disparate views of Democrats should be central to the 2004 election, including where the candidates' stand on how the war is being conducted.
"Let's not have a lot of phony arguments here about what we can and can't talk about," Kerry said. "We need to talk in America about the things that make us strong as a country."
Despite his attempt to focus on education, Kerry repeatedly was asked about the U.S.-led war against Iraq and his recent comments. Besides the school visit, Kerry has been meeting with small groups of activists during his three-day trip to the site of the leadoff presidential caucuses.
Kerry impressed some listeners, including Susan Lagos, an elementary school principal who has a son in the Army. Lagos wasn't ready to endorse a candidate, but she pointed out, "we teach nonviolence here."
She added, however, "I understand there are times when you have to confront the bully."
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