Psst, Dick, Can You Pass This Info Along to George?

In a recent speech to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, Cheney spent most of his time talking about the administration's newly termed "long war." He goes on to say that among their goals is the encouragement of democracy across the world:

As Americans, we have faith in democracy, but no illusions. We know that it takes time and effort and patience for democratic values and free institutions to take hold, and the greater Middle East has a long way to go. The promise of democracy rests ultimately on free elections and the ability of free peoples to hold accountable those who govern them -- but that is only the beginning.

Cheney goes on to share the essentials that these new democracies must keep in mind:
A functioning democracy requires institutions that endure beyond a single vote. Democracy requires the protection of minority rights, religious liberty, equality before the law, freedom of expression, and an inclusive society in which every person belongs. And those who win elections have a duty to nurture institutions and laws that serve the peaceful aspirations of their people.

Uh, Dick, um .... I don't know how to tell you this, but your own administration can't stand up to the requirements you say a "functioning democracy" requires. But I'm sure nobody will notice.