[Liberalism] Pauline Gore Dies

I had just moved to Knoxville. I was helping put together a Human Rights Day program, and I was trawling for speakers. What about Al Gore Sr.? Like Howard Dean, I still remember a Senate populated by Gore and Fulbright and Church and McGovern — i.e., the Democratic Wing of the Democratic Party — hell, I can remember when there was actually something to the left of the Democratic Wing. So why not Gore Sr.? What else does he have to do?

I called the local Democratic Party headquarters, and was surprised when the receptionist gave me the Gores' home phone number without any hesitation. I was also surprised when I called and Pauline Gore answered the phone. She managed to say no in a polite and friendly manner — Gore's health made travel uncomfortable — and then I made some small talk about Al Jr., who had just gotten himself elected VP, and who most people thought would go on to succeed Clinton. Like I say, she seemed warm and relaxed and willing to offer her opinions freely. I recall she was either indifferent or ambivalent to a presidential run, perhaps even a bit hostile. I couldn't tell whether she was concerned for her son's safety — the Good Mother scenario — or whether she found his politics not to her liking — the Howard Dean/Joan Crawford scenario. I don't think I pressed her for an explanation because I thought I was moving into an area which was maybe none of my business — a momentary lapse which fortunately rarely occurs.

Our biggest political loss over the last 30-40 years has been a accelerating diminuation of vision for this country. I like to think Pauline Gore was a bulwark for What's Best About America. I fear we are only beginning to miss her.