Congratulations to Alexander Cockburn

The "hard left" editor of CounterPunch, who moonlights at the "hard right" Chronicles, has sworn to "absolutely and entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty" — I Become an American. He also swore to "bear arms on behalf of the United States" and to perform "work of national importance under civilian direction when required by the law."

I'm glad I was born American, and never had to swear any oaths. I'd have no trouble with the first, if America were ever attacked, but the second one is very problematic. Mr. Cockburn reflects, "I have plenty of positive thoughts about America and am very happy to be stepping aboard what writers on this website describe in unsparing detail each day as a sinking ship."