Martin O'Malley gets his snark on

By Richard K. Barry

Former Maryland governor Martin O’Malley made a somewhat nasty little comment about Hillary Clinton's approach to politics in a speech in South Carolina on Saturday, criticizing the idea of "triangulation" so much associated with the way the Clintons have historically done things. 

The New York Times helpfully describes the practice:

The politics of triangulation is a phrase often used to describe former President Bill Clinton’s brand of centrism. It has also been used to criticize Mrs. Clinton as overly poll driven, and liberals have long used it as a cudgel.

Mr. O'Malley's comment was that "[t]he most fundamental power of our party and our country is the power of our moral principles.” He added, "[t]riangulation is not a strategy that will move America forward. History celebrates profiles in courage, not profiles in convenience.”

Take that, Hillary. That had to hurt. 

Of course, you may recall that candidate Obama said similar things in 2007, with some impact. 

Though it is unlikely Hillary Clinton will be seriously challenged for her party's nomination, it would be pleasant if she had to contend with a voice or two from the left. Not that I think it will have much of effect, as voices from the left in American electoral politics are typically barely left-of-centre. Still, it would be nice to hear the sounds. 

I'm already prepared to be very disappointed.