The Wrong Man

Obama's selection of Rev Rick Warren to give the invocation at his inauguration is dispiriting. Though I am neither female nor gay, the choice of an anti-choice pastor feels like a personal betrayal. Most of the analysis so far has centered on Warren being pro Prop 8, because it's safer to focus on the gay issue than choice.

The symbolism of Obama beginning his presidency with an invocation by a person who stands in opposition to his most loyal base is insulting. Progressives have been relatively silent about Obama's Republican and center right appointments--so far. This however is a big deal, a shoe hurled in the faces of pro-choice people and gays.

Yes, Obama wants to reach out across our many divides, and Evangelicals are important. How many will Obama attract with this gesture as against how many of his core constituency will he disappoint? The optics, the symbolism and the politics are wrong and clumsy. This is not cynicism but a miscalculation.

Warren, however, is no monster. He's an old fashioned Social Gospel Christian, who, like Huckabee, feels for the poor. He represents a part of the Evangelical movement that should be wooed and not alienated. Center stage on opening day is just not appropriate.

I foresee big trouble between now and the inauguration as well as protests during the invocation. I can see members of the crowd rising and turning their backs on Warren. I believe the choice of Warren and the protests of attendees will do exactly the opposite of Obama's intent. This will exacerbate the width and depth of a divide that needs healing.

©2008 Jonathan Dobrer
www.Dobrer.org