My friend Mark (good guitar player) received the following E-Mail from TedKennedy.com. Mark forwarded it to me, fairly confident that it would cause instant apoplexy. It did. I thought I would share it with you.

Dear mark (sic),

Our country’s Republican leadership makes an art of manipulating the truth because they know the consequences of honesty will be too severe: few Americans would support their narrow and ideological agenda and even fewer would accept the level of corruption and cronyism that plagues their party.

That’s why you and I must tell the truth about them. Every day between now and the 2006 elections is an opportunity to pull back the curtain and show Americans the true nature of their government. It won’t be easy, but I believe you’re reading this email because you find the alternative unacceptable.

The right-wing spin machine has fought back noisily at every turn – and their distortions and attacks will only intensify as the November election comes closer. We have to be ready to fight anything they can throw at us. I hope very much that you’ll be part of this fight, and that you’ll help us to make sure we’re ready by contributing $35 or more, if you can afford it, to my re-election campaign:

http://www.tedkennedy.com/timeforthetruth

In recent weeks, Republicans have done everything they can to distract the media and the country with attacks and distortions. Instead of candidly discussing Samuel Alito’s philosophy and background in the recent hearings on his nomination to the Supreme Court, they ignored his obvious support for the White House’s abuses of power. His right-wing credentials are red meat for the reactionary ideologues who have taken control of the Republican Party.

His nomination by the President is the latest example of this Administration’s refusal to level with the American people. From tax cuts to the environment to New Orleans to Iraq, the current Republican leadership twists reality with cherry-picked evidence and outright lies.

It’s time for change. Between now and November, we need to show America just how far they’ve gone wrong on so many issues vital to all our people. We need to make our case loud and clear that Democratic leadership won’t need smokescreens and distortions to govern. If you’re reading this message you likely don’t need to be convinced – but we do need your support for our efforts to reach out to others. Please support our all-important effort by contributing today:

http://www.tedkennedy.com/timeforthetruth

Our community is a powerful way to advance our message. In the coming months, I look forward to working with you to advocate positive initiatives and hold the Republican leadership accountable for undermining our ideals at home and our respect in the world. With your support, we can reach a larger audience and build momentum throughout this election year.

We have nine months to restore honest government by electing Democrats up and down the ballot. Time is short, but with your help, we can make it happen!

Yours for a Democratic Majority in ’06!

/s/ Edward M. Kennedy

Each time this detestable sack of bilge runs his mouth is a gift to the Republican party. Thanks, Ted. Let’s hope the Democrats keep you and Howard Dean front and center.