Clark blasts Bush on secrecy

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. -- Retired General Wesley K. Clark called the Bush administration "a threat to democracy itself" yesterday in some of his most pointed criticisms thus far.

Clark campaigned in Oklahoma and Arizona yesterday, key states for his hopes of lasting much past tomorrow's seven primaries.

Appearing before an overflow crowd of between 200 and 300, including 10 to 20 veterans, at an American Legion post here, Clark repeatedly attacked the Bush administration but did not criticize any of his Democratic rivals by name.

Drawing loud cheers, Clark called the Bush White House the "most closed, secretive, nasty administration" he knew of. "I think they're a threat to democracy itself with its control of the media."

Answering a question from the audience earlier, Clark said that because of increasing consolidation of media conglomerates, "the media's shutting out voices of dissent in this country."

Clark appeared without a jacket, wearing a white shirt and blue tie before the enthusiastic crowd. He discussed his life, emphasizing his faith and values and his policy proposals, including universal health care up to age 22, higher taxes on income over $1 million, and tighter environmental rules.

"He's the best alternative to beat Bush," said Debra Lacey, an Arizonan who was born and raised in Weymouth, Mass.

Lacey attended the rally with her husband, Hank, and their 9-month-old daughter Julia.

"I don't believe a lot of the inside Washington folks [have] shown their commitment to the Democratic viewpoints," she said.

Robert Schlesinger can be reached at schlesinger@globe.com