I just attended a luncheon sponsored by the John Locke Foundation featuring Fred Barnes. Barnes spoke about the Bush presidency, and especially the next four years, in different historical terms than I have heard any other political observer do. In short, Barnes spoke of the President's commitment to a bold agenda which is unhampered by the inside-the-beltway, Washington mindset that so many politicians possess, and of the necessity of pursuing that agenda now, with the biggest majority in Congress that Republicans have enjoyed in decades. Of course the question of whether or not the Republican congress has the courage to support the President's agenda is one for serious debate.
Fred Barnes mentioned the new book by Craig Shirley, Reagan's Revolution, which I started reading this weekend and highly recommend. He talked about how George W. Bush has the potential to accomplish huge things, as Ronald Reagan did, and how this presidency is a continuation of the Reagan Revolution and part of a political realignment.
I will write more extensively on Barnes' speech later, because many of the things he said really did make me think, but since my husband was kind enough to watch our four year old while I attended the luncheon, I don't think I will have time to write much more until the kiddies are in bed tonight.
Update: I want to thank John Hood for introducing me to Fred Barnes at the luncheon today, and thanks to Mr. Barnes for taking several minutes to speak with me. It was really neat to be able to meet someone I have admired so much, having watched and read Barnes for many years. The thing I like most about him is the way he calls 'em like he sees 'em on Brit Hume's Special Report, and NEVER gives in to political correctness. It is always a pleasure to find that someone you have seen on television for years is kind and pleasant in person.
UPDATE: Stacie reminded me of this Fred Barnes post, which I had almost forgotten.

Imagine me turning green with envy....I look forward to reading you full report! Don't I recall you mentioning that you have a crush on Mr. Barnes? A worthy target! I confess to similar affection.
Posted by: Stacie | Monday, January 24, 2005 at 08:20 PM