My thoughts on the Ground Zero mosque (in bullet form and in no particular order)

• Tolerance should go both ways.

• The skepticism over this project is justified. Several questions need to be asked and answered before we should allow this to move forward. The person we want representing Islam should not be someone who hasn’t committed to promoting peace both domestically and internationally.

• This guy isn’t the right guy to build bridges.

• Freedom of religion also applies to Muslims in this country.

• The strongest objections are moral, not legal – and this is where we should make our case.

• For all Americans who give their sole allegiance to this country, their religion should be immaterial to the rights they enjoy as citizens.

• This issue cannot win Republicans an election. It may fire up the grassroots base, but the average American will be focused on jobs and the economy. That’s where Republicans should focus their energy – on pointing out the failures of this administration to make the right moves to help the economy recover. They are fully capable of screwing up an election even with the extremely favorable situation they find themselves in going into November.

• There’s no good reason why this mosque must be built near Ground Zero, whether there’s an existing mosque close by or not.

• Are we clear on the intent and goals of this cultural center / mosque? Is it a mosque or cultural center, or both?

• Either way, it would be a good idea for the builders to consult with the 9/11 families to ensure that their wishes are respected, and ultimately, as a sign of good faith to those of other religions, move the mosque somewhere else.

• In a clear bridge-building move – the cultural center should include memorials to 9/11 victims. That would be an extremely classy move, and an effective compromise that should satisfy everyone.