Clark says Dems promoting patriotism, national security

By DAVE KOLPACK, Associated Press Writer

April 2, 2006

AP via Bismarck Tribune

FARGO - Democrats put their distinguished soldiers on stage at their state convention with messages of patriotism and a strong national defense.

Four-star Gen. Wesley Clark and decorated Vietnam veteran Max Cleland, a former Georgia senator, told delegates Saturday that the administration has botched the war in Iraq and Democrats would be better at handling national security.

"We're strong on defense. That's the message that I want people to hear," Clark said, during one of the few times he raised his voice during the keynote speech. "We've got to talk it up."

Clark, who ran unsuccessfully for president in 2004, said the war on terror has been marked by "macho slogans" and "incredible failures." He said the world has become more dangerous under the Bush administration.

North Dakota Democratic-NPL Party :

Delegation Announces General Wesley Clark as Keynote Speaker for Democratic NPL-Convention

Former Supreme Allied Commander and Presidential Candidate to Speak in Fargo

March 9, 2006

Washington - Senators Kent Conrad and Byron Dorgan and Congressman Earl Pomeroy announced today that General Wesley Clark will be the keynote speaker at the 2006 Democratic-NPL Convention in Fargo.

"This year the North Dakota Democratic Convention will host a lifelong soldier and public servant," the delegation said in a joint statement. "General Clark’s dedicated service to our nation is an inspiration for all North Dakotans. He believes in, and fought for, the democratic values that America was founded upon — the values of honesty and hard work. These are the values so many of us in North Dakota share."