The U.S. can never support the dictator as the first option.

In opposing the dictator, the U.S. cannot aid extremists, unless they are supported by moderates. ("Democracy by pressure" is dangerous).

The U.S. cannot create moderates if they do not already exist.

National security interests constrain U.S. relations with revolutionary regimes.

Misperception and "the law of unintended consequences": as Pastor argues, Washington rarely "move[s] events, instead, events move" Washington.