"We are disappointed at the lack of support from moderate Islamic states," the Western diplomat said.

Party leaders fret that one candidate is too conservative for an essentially moderate state.

Or a more moderate state whose principles would be more agreeable?

They are, in addition, a scourge for the West and moderate Arab states.

One key point: it should be easier now to make peace with moderate Arab states.

In recent years, the Republicans have lost several statewide elections, with candidates who were too conservative for a moderate state.

Lincoln, a moderate from a swing state, secured the Republican Party presidential nomination in 1860.

"This," he added, "is a moderate state, not a conservative Republican state."

Considered a moderate state, I am optimistic that Tunisia's foreign policy will continue in the same direction.

The idea of a moderate state is something cooked up by politicians looking to get a few loans here and there.