Eric Massa versus Dick Cheney

Rep. Eric Massa (D-N.Y.) has challenged former Vice President Dick Cheney to a debate. Massa’s challenge came as he complained about being sick of Cheney “kicking us in the shins,” and saying that he “suffers from a horrible case of political Tourette’s”. The most telling part of his rant came when he decided to present himself as Barack Obama’s political bodyguard:

“I don’t want the president being diverted from his mission on this, having to deal with Dick Cheney. I want Dick Cheney debate me, anywhere, anytime, anyhow. And let’s see how he stands up to the truth.”

He doesn’t want the President to be diverted by Dick Cheney. Does that mean that he’s afraid the President would some how be swayed by Cheney’s argument, or intimidated into doing the right thing? Well, if that’s the case, have no fear because Eric Massa is here! By the way, if Eric Massa thinks Barack Obama could be so easily “diverted” by the comments of a private citizen, then what does that say about his perceived leadership skills?

As for the debate, I think we all know it will never happen. Eric Massa challenging Dick Cheney to a debate is similar to some guy on a playground challenging Kobe Bryant to a game of one-on-one. Bryant wouldn’t waste his time, and neither will Cheney. Of course, in turning down the debate request, Dick Cheney might also be reluctant to refuse to engage in a battle of wits with an unarmed person.