Truth to Power

Bush bashing in the bridge world

A bridge brouhaha over a team’s political protest

In the genteel world of bridge, disputes are usually handled quietly and rarely involve issues of national policy. But in a fight reminiscent of the brouhaha over an anti-Bush statement by Natalie Maines of the Dixie Chicks in 2003, a team of women who represented the United States at the world bridge championships in Shanghai last month is facing sanctions, including a yearlong ban from competition for some members, for a spur-of-the-moment protest.

At issue is a crudely lettered sign, scribbled on the back of a menu, that was held up at an awards dinner and read, “We didn’t vote for Bush.” Angry bridge players have accused the women of “treason” and “sedition.”</em>

Funny, I don’t remember political protest when I was in the bridge club in high school…go ladies!


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