Deciphering Seaport Operations Deal

There are few clear lines that separate those who favor from those who are against the company from United Arab Emirates purchasing the company that operates any ports on the Atlantic coast. Both sides of the isle are mixed in their opinion while the Governors are mostly skeptical. Finally a benchmark has emerged to clarify what side of the issue is the correct one to take.

President Bush is taking a battering from fellow Republicans, even the governors of New York and Maryland, over the administration's support for a decision that gives an Arab company control of some commercial operations at six major seaports -- including Miami-Dade's.

But he got a boost Monday from an unlikely source, frequent critic and former president Jimmy Carter, who downplayed fears that the deal poses a risk.

''The overall threat to the United States and security, I don't think it exists,'' Carter said on CNN's The Situation Room. ``I'm sure the president's done a good job with his subordinates to make sure this is not a threat.''

That's right, Jimmy Carter has determined that there is nothing to be concerned about. The very former president who has lost the ability to speak out loud without embarrassing himself.

Hillary came out against the deal but that is only an indication that a clear majority of Americans are against it. She can only be dependable as a gage of pubic opinion rather that any measure of the merits of an issue. Carter however has achieved the position of a weather vane of nitwittery. Whichever way he's pointing is the way of goofiness. So those of you who wish to know how to assess the harbor management deal can with confidence oppose it vigorously.