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In a long post about what he terms "the two Obamas," Chris Bowers writes and asks:

What I don't understand is where this new Obama came from:

In town-hall meetings, when those who opposed the war get shrill, Obama makes a point of noting that while he, too, opposed the war, he's "not one of those people who cynically believes Bush went in only for the oil."

Did anyone with any power every say that? Did any leading Democrats ever say that? Did any progressive or liberal of any public stature ever say that? If they did, I'd love to see the quote. Why is it necessary for Obama to preface his opposition to the war by saying that he isn't like some crazy, left-wing stereotype that he never names or quotes?

That's easy. Maybe making a comment like that allows his to connect with a specific audience, one that might not otherwise be willing to listen to his points? And maybe, just perhaps, maybe even change their minds?

For better or for worse, there is a large segment of the population out there that doesn't like liberals. Many of them are, quite frankly, a lost cause. But some of them are probably open to convincing, whether they know it or not.

Yes, war for oil is a caricature. But its not like he's making it up from scratch. And to be frank, most of the people who claim things like are loons. Even Chris Bowers admits as much in this post. So what possible harm does it do to use them as a foil? Particularly if it allows you to engage an audience you might not otherwise reach?

Seriously people... If progressives are serious about governing, they need to stop taking offense every time someone says something remotely negative about someone on their side. Chris: Obama isn't attacking you with his strawmen. Unless, that is, you're made of straw.

Think about it.