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OSC makes a good point about there being some unsubstantiated criticism. Of course there is some. There are certainly legitimate concerns. I think the point of his essay is that democrats would be wiser to avoid unsubstantiated criticism. It makes the substantiated criticism seem political too.
If you don't believe that there is some criticism that is merely political than it will certainly jump up and bite you come election-time.
If you believe that all criticism is unsubstantiated than you may prefer a totalitarian state instead.
A campaign that is run on "hating Bush" and "Bush=Satan" is going to run out of steam once it hits the wall of moderates. Hate campaigns usually show themselves to be fear campaigns, and turn people off. With the country as divided as it was last election, you'll win more flies with honey than with vinegar.
Constructive criticism offers alternatives, strives to find a better way, and attempts to work "with" its opposition to accomplish the original goals. This administration has been extremely cautious about criticism, which also could become a political blunder.
If you weed out some of the more biased rhetoric, this would seem to be what OSC is advocating, "constructive criticism" will get you much much further. Towards both your political goals, and our military goals.
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Lord, have mercy on my wicked soul
I wouldn't mistreat you baby, for my weight in gold.
-Son House, Death Letter Blues
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