Although there of course are a few instances, ideas, and individuals that defy these general statements, I agree with Beinart’s general assessment of liberal and conservative patriotism. Beinart believes that conservative patriotism is a “patriotism of affirmation”, in which citizens are always looking to verify the past successes of our country. He believes that we should love and honor our country because of its history, because of our forefathers, and simply because it’s ours. Liberal patriotism, however, tends to focus on a better future. They see patriotism as a promise that the future will to redeem our past sins, and they believe that no matter what, American can always become greater than it already is. While conservatives center a lot of their attention around American symbols like the flag, liberals tend to focus on the American ideals about democracy, equality, and liberty. Because Obama’s beliefs are based on liberal patriotism and McCain’s are based on conservative patriotism, their specific ideas are likely to conflict. As expected based on Beinart’s analysis, Obama’s speech focus on American ideals and the future, while McCain’s focuses on honoring the past. Obama uses his “rags to riches” life story to emphasize the equality of opportunity in America, a democratic ideal that defines the American culture. He states that “…our votes will be counted”, demonstrating the American belief in political equality with “one person, one vote.” While Obama believes we should feel blessed to have all the opportunities that present themselves in America, McCain believes that “The patriot must not just accept, but in his or her own way protect the ideals that gave birth to our country.” McCain emphasizes that we should constantly be protecting America’s liberty, equality, and democracy given to us by past citizens by reminding us of lives lost to give us