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1/11/12

US Presidential Elections: Socialism and Welfare: Republicans Bash Europe in Search of Votes - by Sebastian Fischer

Europe is socialist, bloated and a threat to the global economy. That appears to be the message from the ongoing presidential campaign in the US. Republicans in particular have discovered Europe as a convenient punching bag -- and have even begun accusing each other of being too "European."

A specter is haunting the United States. That, at least, is what the Republicans seem to believe in this election season. And the specter has a name: Europe.

US President Barack Obama, said leading Republican candidate Mitt Romney during the Republican debate on Saturday, wants to turn the US into a "European welfare state." At a weekend appearance in New Hampshire, site of a crucial primary vote on Tuesday, Romney said "I don't believe in Europe. I believe in America."

In an election year overshadowed by the threats posed by the European economy and concerns about the break-up of the European common currency, it is a message that Romney has been delivering every chance he gets. And he's not alone. Europe-bashing has become an important stump-speech cornerstone for the entire Republican field. The message, as Romney never tires of delivering it, is clear: "I don't think Europe is working in Europe. I know it won't work here."

For more: Socialism and Welfare: Republicans Bash Europe in Search of Votes - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News - International

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