Obama-Republicans, a new trend?

The following letter was published on February 15, 2012 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Looking at the remaining GOP candidates running for president, it is my opinion that they reflect some of the hatred expressed by conservative radio talk show hosts.

I strongly believe that the turnout among Republican voters is low because many of them have purged themselves from listening to hate radio. The choice of GOP candidates reflect a deep division in the Republican party.

In my lifetime, I have witnessed this type of division and in-fighting in the Democratic party when Jimmy Carter was running for a second term. As a result, many Democrats became Reagan-Democrats.

With the great successes accomplished by the Obama administration ( "Obama­care," the killing of Osama bin Laden, the shutting-down of the Iraq war, the smart-fought war in Libya, the new tone set to work with the U.N., and a presidency without slander), it is my notion that many of the moderate-minded Republicans can be, or already have, swayed to vote for Barack Obama.

If the economy continues to improve, Republicans from many walks of life will become Obama-Republicans.

They don’t get it

The following letter was published on January 13, 2012 by
The New York Daily News
New York, NY

It seems to me all of the Republican candidates are out of touch with the real urgency facing the nation. In my opinion, America is at a crossroads. It amazes me that not one Republican candidate has acknowledged that the middle class in America is disappearing; too many who were once considered to be among the middle class are now among the have-nots.

How soon they forget

The following letter was published on November 28, 2011 by
The New York Daily News
New York, NY

The Republican candidates for President forget that Bill Clinton left the country with a surplus, and that the following President left us with deep debt, a recession and wars that should not be blamed on President Obama. How many other voters are suffering the same amnesia?

GOP candidates' amnesia seems shared by voters

The following letter was published on November 26, 2011 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

I must concede Newt Gingrich surprised me in the Nov. 22 Republican debate with his show of compassion toward illegal immigrants found to be in the U.S. for 25 years.

I can see why he has found himself ahead of the other candidates.

I was also impressed with that part of Ron Paul's performance in the words that liberty should not be given up for security.

I was disappointed in Jon Huntsman; I expected to see more substance. In earlier debates, I found myself impressed with him. It seems in the Nov. 22 debate, he showed the same amnesia seen in all the Republican candidates.

Bill Clinton left the country with a surplus when he left the White House; the following president left deep debt, a recession and a war. Voters like me are wondering how many other voters are suffering from the same amnesia seen among the Republican candidates.

Disappointing GOP debate left out mention of Iraq

The following letter was published on October 19, 2011 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

The Oct. 11 Republican debate on the economy gave me a measurement of substance on each candidate. Among the full field, only three caught my attention in my narrowing-down process.

It seems to me former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney has the potential to start a trade war if he is elected president. His remarks and possible actions concerning the trade deficit with China may play well with his base; however, the world may view him as the coming of another George Bush, craving to make an enemy.

Former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman impressed me with his relaxed analytical side; it seems to me he quietly put forth an effort to make the other candidates transparent.

As for former pizza company executive Herman Cain, in my opinion, he is pretty much full of himself with his 9-9-9 tax; the middle class and the poor would lose out while the rich would continue to get richer.

At the end of the debate, I found myself disappointed that not one Republican candidate mentioned that the war in Iraq is a contributing factor to our ailing economy; in my opinion, this oversight makes them all appear disingenuous.

Up the dose

The following letter was published on July 20, 2011 by
The New York Daily News
New York, NY

Let's compare raising the debt ceiling to raising the dosage on a person's medications. If a person is experiencing a shortage of breath, then the dosage in his or her breathing apparatus should be increased. The country is short of breath and the debt ceiling needs to be raised; should lawmakers hold hostage the dosage?

The debt ceiling should be raised immediatel​y.

In order to understand the urgency needed by lawmakers to settle on the “debt ceiling” matter, let’s look at the US as a person needing additional medications to function in the modern times. Let’s say the ingredients in the meds represent tax and spending. Let’s say the person needing those meds will fall apart if the meds were taken away or a radical change in dosage occurred.

Through-out decades lawmakers have made deals and passed legislation that have benefited the poor, middle class, the rich and the super rich; this was all part of maintaining a civil society. That civil society is maintained by spending, raising and lowing taxes when needed.

Let’s compare raising the “debt ceiling” to raising the dosage on a person’s meds. Let’s say for the moment that person is experiencing a short of breath and the dosage of meds in his breathing apparatus should be increased. The country is short of breath and the “debt ceiling” needs to be raised; should lawmakers hold hostage the dosage?

Radio hate-mongering partly to blame in Ariz.

The following letter was published on January, 11, 2011 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

When I think of the 22-year-old shooter in Tucson, Ariz., I think of the influences that may have driven him to such a cowardly, heinous crime.

How many other young and old unstable minds are listening to the likes of hard-core conservative radio talk show hosts and other parts of the media that are giving people the impression that their government has been taken over by a man with a fake birth certificate? In my opinion, Sarah Palin, the group that follows her, and many politicians certainly have a large share in peddling anger that may have contributed to the tragedy in Tucson.

The proof in the pudding is in the new numbers on one side of Congress and the Senate.

Robert O'Leary's politics in line with his character

The following letter was published on September 01, 2010 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Unlike many who have accused the Cape Cod Times of leaning to the left or to the right, I view the Times as somewhat of an instigator when it comes to airing a political fight.

For example, I'm amused with the for-and-against comments concerning state Sen. Jeffrey Perry; it seems to be nonstop. I believe the spotlight that shines on and targets his past as a police officer was turned on by members and powerful opponents of his own party when Perry decided to run as a candidate for the state's 10th Congressional District.

The bachelor's degree that was not a degree, the delayed action after witnessing a strip-search by another officer, the alleged tampering with stoplights, and that cover-up after driving over a radar gun might be viewed by some as a typical developing young Jeffrey Perry making some mistakes along the way. If it were not for his politics and party affiliation, I would take that view as well.

However, I'll be voting on the Democratic side for state Sen. Robert A. O'Leary, because his politics is in line with his character. He will, with no doubt, be a great congressman.

Joe Barton

On 6/17/2010 BP chief executive Tony Hayward being questioned by
Congress received a strange suck-up from Texas Representative Joe
Barton; he stuck his foot in his mouth when he referred to the
president’s securing of 20 billion dollars damage fund for damages
accrued by the oil spill as a “shake down.” In his attempt to attack
the president, it left many of us asking which side he is on; the
American people or BP’s side? In my opinion, Representative Joe
Barton is a disgrace to the republican party. He is the epitome of a
bitter out of touch republican.

Bring those responsible for spill to justice

The following letter was published on June 5, 2010 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

I suspect at some point the oil gushing from the ocean bed through the busted well will eventually be stopped. In the meantime, a helplessness seems to be gripping the U.S. by the many failed attempts on the part of BP to stop the spill.

It is clear the U.S. government does not have the expertise to stop such a spill as in the Gulf; and it is also clear BP did not have a real backup plan to handle such an emergency.

When the spill is stopped and criminal negligence is found, civil suits will flood the courts, and BP will likely pay a large settlement. This would certainly help the human equation in this manmade disaster; however, the only closure for the suffering and death of marine life and other creatures is when those responsible for the spillage are brought to justice.

Why is GOP so dead set on sabotaging health reform?

The following letter was published on March 20, 2010 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Because of misinformation, I know personally that some people are under the impression that health insurance companies will be the winners if health care reform is passed. Also, there are those under the impression that their tax dollars will go to those with less means.

Think of a football and a goal with a health insurer having the power to move the goal when the football is thrown. Think of a client trying to throw a football at a moving goal, and a clear picture will surface as to why health care reform is desperately needed.

For the life of me, I can't understand why leaders in the other party are dead set on sabotaging the gains acquired on health care reform by the Democrats. However, it is crystal clear to me that their united request that the present form of the bill be sacked and started over is simply a political wish and ploy to destroy the cause.

An up-side down seat and State

On the eve of the decision that will be made on whether Coakley or Brown will fill the rest of Senator Kennedy’s term, like many citizens in Massachusetts that are like minded, I’m concerned that Massachusetts will not be the State I love if Brown becomes the victor. When I look at the non-diverse crowd he draws, it reminds me of an era south of the Mason Dixon line when many others were ignored and didn’t have a voice. In my opinion, Senator Kennedy’s seat was a voice for the voiceless and a constant drumbeat to right wrongs against the disenfranchised; he and others like him steered this country in a better place. If I wake up Wednesday morning and Brown is the victor, his main constituents, Tea Party members, which I feel, are disingenuous, will be victors as well. In my opinion, that would put Senator Kennedy’s seat and Massachusetts in an upside- down position; the state that led the way in righting many wrongs will become a state headed back in the wrong direction.

Vote Coakley to prevent any comeback of the GOP

The following letter was published on January 16, 2010 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

After the passing of Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, I had decided I would sit out the election that will fill the rest of his term.

Even though I think Martha Coakley will win easily, Scott Brown has certainly gotten my attention. It seems to me Scott Brown is a hope for those forces that were voted out of power in 2006 and 2008. John McCain, the candidate who picked Sarah Palin for a VP running mate, snapped me out of my sitting-this-election-out mood when he endorsed Scott Brown; the forces that gave the Bush administration a blank check are trying to make a comeback.

My vote for Martha Coakley will be a vote with a dual purpose; like many other votes, it will help her win big, and maintain that show of respect for Sen. Kennedy's seat and legacy.

The Afghanistan war does not have a clear cause.

Like most Americans, I understand how difficult it is for President Obama to find an end-game strategy for the war in Afghanistan. Like the war in Iraq, he inherited the mistakes of the Bush Administration.

It appears a lot has changed in the volume on the talk of a real democracy in Afghanistan; it has been turned down under the cloud of corruption in the Hamid Karzai's Government. In my opinion, as of yet, Karzai has not made any real overtures toward his country and the world that he is willing to disperse with any member of his government seen as corrupt.

It is not clear to me and many other Americans how much of the belief system of the Taliban is shared among the Afghan men and the government. I don't think Afghan people and the government can have one foot in the Taliban world and the other foot in a hope for a democracy; this dilemma blurs the cause for American and Allied forces in Afghanistan.

Originally, American and Allied forces topped the Taliban Government because that government would not surrender Osama bin Laden, the leader of Al Qaeda responsible for 9-11. In my opinion, the job went unfinished when the Bush Administration became obsessed with invading Iraq and hastily transferred power to a propped-up government in Afghanistan.

Like many other Americans, I think Osama bin Laden along with many more Al Qaeda members, would have been killed or apprehended if the Bush Administration had stayed focused on the war in Afghanistan.

In my opinion, the belief system of the Taliban is the same as Al Qaeda; neither will deny the other. If the Afghan people and the government can't see the Taliban as their number one enemy, how can American and Allied forces justify building up and training Afghan forces?

Will's no Cronkite

The following letter was published on September 9, 2009 by
The Boston Herald
Boston, Massachusetts

Many are making claims that George Will's new positions on both wars, Afghanistan and Iraq, is a Walter Cronkite moment ("Afghanistan's a losing cause," Sept. 2 and "Our work in Iraq is through," Sept. 4).

Cronkite did not have a long paper trail following him in support of the Vietnam War when he spoke out against it. I find it is disingenuous for a conservative intellectual like Will to now experience a breakthrough with thoughtfulness of pulling out of both wars. Where was that thoughtfulness in the last eight years? Will he reverse himself and come out in support of the public option in the health care reform bill eight years from now?

We can't let 'beer summit' eclipse analysis of event

The following letter was published on August 2, 2009 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

I'm afraid the beer summit hosted by President Barack Obama might smother out what Americans need to know about those moments at professor Henry Louis Gates' house when Sgt. James Crowley arrived to investigate a house break-in.

The confrontational moments between the both should be analyzed and revisited in the separate versions told by each. In my opinion, our nation can benefit from a careful examination of each of those versions.

A man was arrested and may have been humiliated. Did his behavior warrant the arrest, or was he a product of an officer's arrogance?

At some point all falsehoods will be laid to rest

Al Qaeda, Conservative Talk Radio, Fox News, Glen Beck, Bill O’Reilly, Rush Limbaugh, and Osama bin Laden, all, in my opinion, would like to turn the clock of time back. Even though their goals are not within a common interest, they are all part of that ground where extremism grows. Many of us see that ground ploughed with degrees of hate.

Within the above mix, there are those that dream of taking the world back to the 13th century, and there are those that dream of taking a country back to the Reagan era. Modernization through the progression of time is an enemy to all in the mix; it can not be stopped, it can only be slowed down.

Inevitably, what has to go forward will go beyond those few that have twisted Islamic beliefs, along with those that twisted the meaning of being an American. All involved in both missions will one day melt away in that part of history where falsehoods are laid to rest.

Judge ourselves honestly, and the world will follow

The following letter was published on June 11, 2009 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

In my opinion, President Obama's June 4 speech in Cairo was crafted to engage, not offend.

Many conservative radio talk-show hosts and others are concentrating on toxic negatives they think should have been in Obama's speech.

Idiosyncrasies exist in many governments, if not all; it shows a lack of character in a government when it is quick to judge others and not itself. When Obama referred to the Iraq war as a "war of choice," he received applause from his Cairo audience.

Were Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to admit that the settlement construction in the West Bank was misguided, and if President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran were to admit he was wrong about his Holocaust denial, that part of the world that wants peace would applaud them both.

Should we look the other way on torture?

Under an unstable leadership in denial, right and wrong can be blurred to satisfy a dark moment. That dark moment, like other questionable moments in the Bush administration, was to justify and downplay types of torture. Should the ones involved in contriving and okaying methods of torture be prosecuted?

If some of the countries of Asia, South America, all the European countries, and the sane part of the US asked for closure concerning the disregard for provisions set forth by the Geneva Conventions in the treatment of war criminals, the answer would be yes. In spite of former Vice President Dick Cheney’s attempt to justify torture because of the type of enemy we face, America is not about joining in and escalating the madness in the world; America needs to be that mature democracy governing by example. The outing of Valerie Plane, the preemptive attack on Iraq, and the torture of prisoners are all part of a pattern practiced by the Bush administration that put itself above the law. If we look the other way and not prosecute the guilty parties involved in the torture, we will leave the door open for another administration in the future to practice the same.

'Tea party' protesters protest the wrong thing

The following letter was published on April 20, 2009 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

In response to the recent tax protests, I asked myself, where were they when George Bush lied the U.S. into a $10 billion-a-month war? I asked myself, where were they when the U.S. suffered losses under Halliburton? A person like myself cannot help but suspect the participants of the "tea party" are somewhat misguided and disingenuous.

As a nation, will we fall, or pick ourselves up and do what's right?‏

The misdeeds of Madoff, and the bonuses given out to past and present employees of the insurer American International Group are obscene forms of betrayal and greed. In the eyes of the world, the land of freedom has become the land of greed. In the months and years to come let's hope the new leader of the free world will help get back some of the trust we once had. A country losing trust is like a sinking ship running out of patches.

Encouraged by Obama's address to Congress

The following letter was published on March 1, 2009 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

I felt President Obama's speech to the joint session of Congress Feb. 24 projected a leader in charge with a hands-on approach.

His vision was of substance and direction. His repair package for the recession (the stimulus package), in my opinion, could very well revive the economy and spur confidence. Unlike the Republican response from Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, President Obama's speech represented a change from the same old approach we have witnessed in the past eight years.

Closet Bigots on conservative radio talk shows are outing themselves

As I listen to many of the hosts of conservative radio talk shows, it amuses me and scares me to hear such an anti Obama and democrat tone;it is really bad and disrespectful. They sound like bigot sour grapes coming out of the closet. Let's never forget these seem to be surrogates of the neo-cons along with other parts of the conservative media helped promote the Bush administration's lie to invade Iraq; yes, they steered the country wrong and they will do it again. It is my hope that newly un-informed listeners of conservative radio talk shows will go back and review tapes of many of the hosts during the lead up to the invasion of Iraq; a fair minded individual would see a lack of or no credibility among them all. It is my belief that bigotry exists in many patches of circles around the country; fair mindedness is lacking among these circles and they charge their batteries with top bigots on the air.

Our troubled economy is a very mixed picture

It felt good to see again a news conference that was not so staged and artificial like many of us have witnessed for the past eight years. I’m not sure I can buy into with complete confidence the stimulus package President Obama is selling. However, I get the feeling from his demeanor that there is an urgency far beyond the understanding of his critics. Chesley B. “Sully” Sullenberger 3rd, the pilot that eased his plane down in the Hudson Bay saving 155 people, knew he needed to fall back on his training and skills the moment he discovered both engines failed after take off. I believe Economists advising President Obama exist in Mr. Sullenberger’s moment of urgency. Apparently they feel, their training, skills, and understanding of the economy, dictate an immediate action. Some of us, like some of the passengers on that US Airways A320, don’t really see and understand all the options; it is a mixed complicated picture. The President’s news conference left me with this thought: The passengers on the US Airways A320 only option when both engines failed was to put their faith in the skills and training of the pilot. Americans like myself, only option, is to hope that our leaders are listening to the right people and will make the right moves.

A response to Cecchi's letter

In response to the letter written by Mr. Guy M. Cecchi, on 2/4/09, “Don’t let this euphoria keep us from real change,” We all live in our on bubble of understanding of what makes this country great. It seems Mr. Cecchi is one of those victims used by the Bush administration to divide the country. Wedge issues such as abortion, gay marriage and the threat of terrorism provided an illusion that propped up a dangerous administration. I hope that voters like Mr. Cecchi are forever low in numbers. When America recovers from the mess left behind by the Bush administration, I hope safe guards will be put into place to prevent the nation from ever electing such a destructive individual such as George Bush. This country can become great again with real change when we are forgiven by the world for voting George Bush in for eight years.

Living history

The following letter was published on January 22, 2009 by
The New York Daily News
New York, NY

Jan. 20, 2009, was a great day to be alive. It was like a page in a book that ignited an interest to a reader to get involved in a beautiful story. The hope of the Obama administration is in the hunger to hear his words; that is seen in the crowds he draws. It is like taking a plane ride for the first time. He electrifies and excites us with his universal appeal and his very presence. He has the potential to unify; consequently, the world may become a better place.

History to record Jan. 20 as a great day to be alive

The following letter was published on January 22, 2009 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

So many on Jan. 20 will remember it as a great time to be alive. It is like a page in a book that ignited an interest to a reader to get involved in a beautiful story to come.

The hope in the Obama administration is in the hunger to hear his words; that is seen in the crowds he draws. It is like taking a plane ride for the first time. He electrifies and excites us with his universal appeal and his very presence. He has the potential to unify our Gods; consequently, the world may become a better place.

Killing innocent people is wrong

Like many of the brave souls that took a stand in print against the actions of the Bush administration, I feel proud that I joined them and was not among the ones that looked the other way, or painted a false rosy picture. For the pass seven years I have witnessed a lack of empathy from a leader that called himself a “War time President.” Some of us understand the symbolism behind the tossed shoes by a journalist that obviously had a lot of empathy for the misery he witnessed caused by a leader with little or no conscience. No one can really understand oppression like the ones that are living it. Bombs dropped on families killing innocent love ones will never achieve an end to terrorism. Terrorism fought with terrorism is insanity. A country is lacking in humanity when it loses it’s will to hold on to what is right. No matter how you slice it, killing innocent people is wrong.

Following behind bloody hands

In just a few days the Bush administration will come to an end. Like so many other Americans that are disappointed in the lack of outrage for no accountability against a president that lied the American people into a war of choice, I would gladly join any choir group to cheer at him with disdain as he leaves the White House. As of result of the Bush administration, harm and death came to thousands of innocent people. In the eyes of the world, the Bush administration walked on the rule of international law. They falsely accused and attacked a sovereign nation. With all the blood on the hands of the Bush administration, the president elect Barack Obama’s greatest challenge is to influence a change of the mindset of our nation while seeking peace out of wisdom with our enemies.

America can find its way back

As we all metaphorically walk into the door of 2009, we carry with us the thought that the world has changed and our country is different. Looking back and looking forward is in the thought that an unpopular president will be moving out of the White house and a popular president elect will be moving in. The common interest that so many of us all hope and share is in a wish that somehow what was lost in America will be restored by the incoming administration. If we can get back that confidence that once led the way for other parts of the world, we will once again have faith in the future for our children and grandchildren. Like a crew on a ship with no compass and no technology, we as Americans have found ourselves in uncharted waters with uncertain tomorrows. Let us all step into the new year with that familiar American spirit, to find direction and gain back that respect from the world we once had. Let’s say, we can find our way back and gain respect from the world, with a “Happy New Year” to everyone.

House Negros were followers not leaders

Osama Bin Laden’s top Al Qaeda deputy, Ayman al-Zawahri, was reported to have called the President-elect Barack Obama a “house Negro.” Without followers, Osama Bin Laden and Ayman al-Zawahri would be lost in their medieval ideology that comes from that part of that distance past that ruled and governed the masses through fear, a self interpreted theocracy, and violence. The orator skills of Barack Obama and the respect he received from many in the muslin world for becoming the President-elect might trickle down to followers of Osama Bin Laden. I’m one to believe Al Qaeda can be defeated with words and truth. Obama has demonstrated when he speaks the world listens and likes what he says; he can unmask and put the spot light on the idiosyncrasies existing in the Al Qaeda’s belief system. In my opinion, this is Obama’s greatest potential at this moment in time. House Negros were silent, obedient and well programmed to serve their masters; these types are similar to the followers of Osama Bin Laden. Barack Obama is not a follower; he is a leader. It is my belief his words will free the followers of Osama Bin Laden.

Reality and a page turned

For those Americans that are feeling bitter and down about the election results and the many comments concerning the inadequacies existing in the Bush administration, try having a reality check. When you are done, try not to be so disappointed in those Americans that criticized George Bush’s policies. If a sane person witnessed someone driving off a cliff, that person would scream and try to stop him; he would not willfully and joyfully join him. With no apology, many of us criticized George Bush’s policies and arrogance because we were concerned about the path he was taking the country on. Furthermore, many of us feel he should have been impeached. Having said all of this, many of us and others in other parts of the world can turn the page on the Bush administration. We have hope that the president elect, Barack Obama, will restore much of what was lost.

McCain claims a share of pride in our nation

The following letter was published on November 7, 2008 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Like many, I was so proud to see the first African-American become president-elect in the U.S.; equally, I was proud of John McCain's concession speech. It was the John McCain we once knew.

Optimism is spreading

Yes, optimism is in the air. It is exciting to think about an Obama presidency. At a moment in time when the volume of optimism is turned up not only in America but in other parts of the world, it gives so many of us a relief and satisfaction to see eight years of arrogance being shown the door. On November 4th , the nation will turn the page on cowboy politics. We all have hope that the nation’s economical, domestic, and foreign policies will evolve around fairness, inclusiveness and transparency. We look for an Obama administration not to pick fights with certain parts of the world, but bring a common interest and understanding to the planet that we all need each other.

When the election is over we will come together as one country

On November 4th, Tuesday, some will use their votes to go down with the ship and others will cast their votes on that miracle ship under the banner called change. Both ships have come a long way and experienced windy, stormy waters. Even though my vote along with many others will be cast on the miracle ship, we respect the ship that lost its way. When the ships are translated into candidates Senator Obama does stand out as the miracle ship and Senator McCain stands out as the ship that lost its way. In this election a candidate’s demeanor, judgment, calmness and steadiness outweighs the other candidate’s experience. For many in the media to tap dance around the fact that Senator McCain acted impulsively when he picked Governor Sarah Palin for his running mate, it shows an all around respect for the man in spite of his blunder. Lets hope on Tuesday when all the votes are cast, all Americans will pull together, put bitterness aside, and help steer this country to a better place.

The pendulum is swinging to the left in Obama's era

In the history of politics, in my life time and many others, there has never been such a fierce battle between the “Us And Them,” with the large number of participants witnessed in this election year. Both sides are hoping that there are more of “Us” than “Them” to set the tone and agenda in all three branches of the government: executive, judicial, and legislative. Former President Ronald Reagan convinced many democrats that he was best for the moment he lead. Those democrats are referred to as “Reagan Democrats.” It seems in 2008, Obama is convincing some republicans to become “Obama Republicans.” That means on the “Us And Them” scale, the pendulum is swinging to the left and the neo-cons are on the run. This thought along gives so many of us great pleasure that we are living in a moment in time when the right side will conquer the wrong side.

Wishing another would follow the path of Powell‏

Like many, I was delighted to hear that Colin Powell endorsed Barack Obama, even though many of us wished he had had the courage to resign the Bush administration during the run up to the Iraq war. That would have made a difference in the eyes of the country and the world. Even though I agree with Colin Powell that McCain’s VP pick, Sarah Palin, pushed the Republican Party too far to the right, I’m not convinced that this reason alone is why Powell endorsed Obama. In my opinion, the endorsement of Obama is a way for Powell to redeem himself before the eyes of the Bush administration, the country, and the world. Mainly, I believe, this is his way of separating himself from the denials of the wrongs perpetrated by the Bush administration. Like many, I can only hope that some day Condoleeza Rice will make her break from the Bush administration’s pretense world that laced with so many denials. She is too talented to hold herself hostage to such an out of touch, lost, corrupted administration.

We need McCain back in the Senate

The last debate between Senator McCain and Senator Obama, in my opinion, was easily won by Senator Obama. He was steady, calm, relaxed and confident while Senator McCain was anxious, shaky and a little bit scary. Senator McCain is a good man with good intentions, however it was obvious that Senator Obama would make a better president and maybe it would be best for Senator McCain to go back and do his good work in the Senate. When the election is over we need his toughness to help shape an immigration policy that everyone can live with.

Gov. Palin was a bad gamble

Senator McCain is known for his gambling side as well as the Maverick. Many of us know now that Governor Sarah Palin was not a well thought out pick for the VP on the republican ticket. The sad state of the economy may be a contributing factor to Senator Obama’s rise in the polls; however, many of us think Gov. Palin contributes to that as well. Looking at the type of crowds she attracts might be why McCain is losing steam. There is certainly some truth to the old saying “A person is known by the company he keeps.” I believe most Americans are concerned with restoring the direction of the country rather than the type of politics we have had in the past eight years. In my opinion, Gov. Palin and the crowds she attracts is a reminder of the tactics of the Bush administration. Those tactics have lost their usefulness for many that are looking for the country to be steered in a new direction. Let’s be honest, Senator McCain could be doing better in the polls if he had picked a more qualified running mate. The Maverick made a bad gamble.

A bright light

The second debate between Senator McCain and Senator Obama was like looking at the past closing out to the future. Both put forward strong efforts; however it was clear that America needs a forward looking candidate with a real vision; not a vision on past experiences but a vision on real change. Senator Obama shined like a bright light on a hill leading the way for the future.

Unseasoned Palin gets kid-glove treatment

The following letter was published on October 4, 2008 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

It is so peculiar that some in the media and many of the commentators after the debate between Sen. Joe Biden and Gov. Sarah Palin put kid gloves on when criticizing Palin's performance.

She totally avoided answering many questions and the only area she actually showed some knowledge in was energy. In my opinion Palin is lacking depth and appeared to be far out of her league debating Biden.

Having said all of this, I and many others somewhat appreciate the kid-glove treatment; Sarah Palin is a likable person. However, it is scary to think she could be a heartbeat away from the presidency.

America's choices: twentieth century or the twenty first century‏

In the 9/26/08 debate between Obama and McCain, Obama was clever to say, “Ten days ago, John said that the fundamentals of the economy are sound.” Like many, I feel, that John McCain that suffered as a prisoner of war in the Vietnam war, was a special soldier with a strong spirit. The John McCain today looks like a man clinging to the ways of the twentieth century. The challenges in the twenty first century can not be met with the resistance demonstrated in the past eight years. It is time to restore and move ahead. If you have been ignoring the disappearing middle class, if you are part of that group that has a deaf ear to the needy in America, if you believe ten billion dollars a month that goes to the Iraqi cause is a worthy cause, vote for four more years of holding on to the twentieth century with McCain and Palin.

A dissenting view on wars with false causes

The RNC confirmed for many of us that many in the Republican Party believe that God has a hand in the Iraq war. The Americans that are willing to stand up and say that they want their sons and daughters that are taught to fight to be put in the right fights and the right causes rings hallow with many that believe the Bush administration was right to invade Iraq.

For those of us that believe our country is going down the wrong path, we have to stand up and not march behind those that are willing to fool themselves. In Vietnam and Iraq, we didn’t buy into the overstated greatness of those causes that many of us looked at as trumped up illusions.

Because of our dissent, the other side wants to paint us as unpatriotic. We love this country, and we love our sons and daughters. We don’t want them coming back in body bags, missing limbs and damaged minds, for leaders driven by a false ideology.

We can hear the dream of MLK through Barack

For many of us that watched the DNC on 8/28/08, our minds were flooded with awe that Barack Obama has come so far reflecting many themes and values that brought tears of joy to our hearts and souls. You could feel and hear the rusty hinges on that door of forgotten hope crackling as it opened showing us all through Barack, that promise in the dream of Dr. Martin L. King.

Time to beat those drums

Now that Joe Biden is the VP pick for Obama it is time to go after the hearts of those 18 million voters that stood firmly behind Hillary Clinton.

Loud drumbeats echoing the following themes should be done and repeated on a daily basis:

Drumbeat 1- Do we want a continuation of a bunch of advanced aged men stuck in a cowboy time bubble, pretending to be tough while wasting our resources in a war of choice benefiting Iran?

Drumbeat 2- Do we want a bunch advanced aged rich out of touch men in the pocket of religious extremists tampering with women rights to choose?

Drumbeat 3- Do we want four more years of losing the middle class while the rich is getting richer?

Drumbeat 4- Do we want that trust back we once had that we and the world were proud of?

Drumbeat 5- Lets merge together and take this country back.

A war of choice that benefited Iran

The whole business of using force to settle disputes, I believe borders around men’s immaturity. With all that we know in these modern times, men still have not risen above killing each other over territory, religion and resources.

Just because so many of us can see the invasion of Georgia by Russia is pale in comparison to the Iraq invasion, this does not mean we are apologists for Russia’s behavior.

Our patriotism is in our hope that one day men as a whole will grow up and some of the behavior of men kind will somehow experience a breakthrough. That’s not going to happen in a McCain administration; we will only have four more Bush years of old men claiming to be stewards of pro-life in one breath, and in another, they won’t hesitate to send young humans beings to die in a war of choice.

Is our patriotism in question just because we don’t buy into the dream that a stable democracy will be left behind in Iraq after the Iraqi government succeeds in negotiating the complete withdrawal of American troops?

Perhaps by then George Bush and John McCain will realize that this war of choice that have drained on our resources and has shed so much blood has strengthened the hand of Iran.

A maverick no more

The following letter was published on August 19, 2008 by
The Star Tribune
Minneapolis-Saint Paul, Minnesota

I've always had a great deal of respect for the young John McCain as an American hero who suffered as a prisoner of war. No one can ever take that chapter in his life away from him.

But, in 2008, McCain is making comments about his opponent that are out of sync for a war hero. It seems out of a desperate attempt to score political points.

Obama's attraction is all about the inspiration of trust that is lost in the Bush administration that deceived the country and the world. Sadly, this McCain clings to many of the policies of the Bush administration.

Look who's preaching of long-term consequences

The following letter was published on August 16, 2008 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

These are unbelievable quotes from a nominee of the Republican Party and the president concerning Russia's military offensive in Georgia:

"Russian leaders must understand the severe long term negative consequences of their actions." — John McCain.

"Russia has invaded a sovereign neighboring state and threatens a democratic government elected by its people. Such an action is unacceptable in the twenty first century." — George H. Bush.

The nominee of the Republican Party and the president didn't mention that the fighting started when Georgia, a former Soviet republic, decided to invade the province of South Ossetia. You don't see large crowds protesting around the world against Russia's war, like we saw before and after Iraq was invaded.

Over 100,000 Iraqis have been killed, and over 4,000 US troops have died in a conflict that was preventable. Can the nominee of the Republican Party, who has always supported the war in Iraq, and the president, say the U.S. does not have long term consequences for invading Iraq? Can they also say the US actions were acceptable in the 21st century? In my opinion, because they represent the epitome of hypocrisy and denial, the answers would probably be in the affirmative.

Shooting: a sad moment for everyone

The following letter was published on August 7, 2008 by
The Register
Yarmouthport, Massachusetts

It's very hard for so many of us to rise above looking at another human being from another country here in America illegally as one of us. It is as difficult for many in Brazil to accept the unfortunate death of Andre Luiz de Castro Martins. Not only does my heart goes out to the family and friends of the deceased, I understand this moment of sorrow for the officer who was given a set of circumstances and dynamics that required a response. According to what was reported if valid, when Mr. Martins turned his car around in that yard on 41 Baxter Avenue striking Christopher Van Ness's cruiser, options were reduced and Van Ness' training kicked in on the use of deadly force.

I don't think any sane officer on Cape Cod would relish in the thought of being put in that moment when Van Ness pulled his weapon and used it. At that moment Mr. Martins may have been thinking about being deported and away from his family. It is sad to think that his mind may have been flooded only with the thoughts of staying with his family at a moment when clarity was needed to protect his life. His decision, as reported, to continue to run after striking the cruiser reduced officer Van Ness's window of timing on responding in a moment when his training dictated his response.

Estadao, a newspaper dated 7/30/08 in Sao Paulo, Brazil reported the many violations Mr. Martins committed in America, and revealed that Mr. Martins' father, Luiz Carlos de Castro Martins is a retired military police. It is a very sad thought that Martins' father may be more familiar with officer Van Ness' window of timing on responding in that moment his son was shot than any other member of his family.

In retrospect, I believe everyone involved wishes that moment and the speeding vehicle never happened.

Human element on Cape

The following letter was published on August 4, 2008 by
The Boston Herald
Boston, Massachusetts

It's hard for so many to look at another human being here in America illegally as one of us (“Illegal actions, not status, got Cape immigrant killed,” July 30). It is as difficult for many in Brazil to accept the unfortunate death of Andre Luiz de Castro Martins. Not only does my heart go out to the family, I understand this moment of sorrow for the police officer who was given a set of circumstances that required a response.

When Martins turned his car around, striking Christopher Van Ness’ cruiser, the officer’s training kicked in on the use of deadly force. I don’t think any sane officer would relish being put in that moment. And it’s sad to think that Martins’ mind may have been flooded only with the thoughts of staying with his family.

The Sao Paulo newspaper Estadao reported the many violations Martins committed in America and revealed that Martins’ father is a retired military police officer. It’s sad that the father may be more familiar with Van Ness’ window of timing on responding in that moment his son was shot then any other member of his family. In retrospect, I believe everyone involved wishes that moment and the speeding vehicle never happened.

McCain / Obama

Like many, I've always had a great deal of respect for the young John McCain as an American hero that suffered as a prisoner of war. No one can ever take that chapter in his life away from him; he really showed bravery while in the hands of his captors.

In 2008, the nominee of his party for the president of the US, John is making comments about his opponent that are out of sync for a war hero that showed true grit against his captors. It seems out of a desperate attempt to score political points McCain has been trying to blur the goodwill Barack Obama shows in his orator skills. He is claiming Obama lacks substance.

Many voters like myself know Obama's attraction is all about the inspiration of trust that is lost in the Bush administration that deceived the country and the world. Sadly, the McCain we all thought we once knew clings to many of the policies of the Bush administration which is in direct contrast with an Obama ticket.

A McCain ticket is about a continuation of distrust and out of touch. An Obama ticket is about hope, change, and trust. We can pick a ticket that clings to an administration lacking credibility in the world or we can pick a ticket that might some day restore what America lost.

Back to basics for Obama

The following letter was published on July 30, 2008 by
Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles, California

Re "In Berlin, Obama calls for unity with Europe," July 25

Barack Obama's speech before 215,000 Germans shows that glimmer of hope so many of us can see coming if he is elected president of the United States.

The lack of global respect for the U.S. can be traced to the disrespect for the international community President Bush showed when his administration decided to ignore so many during the lead-up to the invasion of Iraq.

I believe those 215,000 people who showed up to hear Obama in Germany share what many Americans and others around the world feel right now. Maybe the America we all once knew will come back thanks to Obama's leadership.

Denial of a brewing civil war

That feeling that the Bush administration may have over played its hand when no WMD were found is echoed in John McCain’s claims that the surge is working and the US is winning. Are we really winning, and can we call refereeing winning? “Bomb Attacks in Baghdad and Kirkuk Leave Dozens Dead,” reported 7/28/08 by Richard A Opper Jr. and Sabrina Tavernise in the New York Times, left me with the feeling that our troops in Iraq are delaying the inevitable; a civil war is coming like a forecasted storm with all the signs.

Glimmering hope

The following letter was published on July 26, 2008 by
The Houston Chronicle
Houston, Texas

That speech in Germany before 200,000 people by Barack Obama shows that glimmer of hope so many of us can see coming if he is elected president of the United States. The respect lacking around the globe for the United States might be traced to the disrespect for the international community the Bush administration showed when it decided to ignore so many during the lead up to the invasion of Iraq.

I believe those 200,000 people showed up to hear Obama in Germany to share what many Americans and others around the world feel at this moment in time: Maybe the America we all once knew will revive through his leadership.

Global warming waits for no man - The energy crunch

The following letter was published on July 26, 2008 by
The Boston Globe
Boston, Massachusetts

Like many, my admiration for Al Gore for his work in bringing to the world stage the effects of global warming puts him among my greatest heroes.

Looking at the larger picture, global warming and wars are like two related cancers; both feed off greed.

We are running out of time. The next administration must put forth an effort toward steering the world in the direction of using our resources to stop wars with the same vigor Gore is using to get the world's attention on global warming.

Patriotism being questioned again‏

The dispute between the two presidential hopefuls concerning troop withdrawals is losing ground in the McCain camp. It seems McCain/Bush focus on the success of the surge is being undermined by the Malika government and people of Iraq; they seem to want a time line which is in support of Obama’s camp. Even though the Bush administration would like to call it a time horizon, Americans and the world are very much aware that this is a goal post moving time for a cause slipping away; it is very much like that WMD cause that evolved into an Iraqi freedom cause.

Could it be that one camp can see the handwriting on the wall while the other frames the troop withdrawals in terms of winning or losing a war projecting a false sense of patriotism as done during the lead up to the invasion of Iraq?

Can an immigrant get fairness?

There are some that are stubbornly refusing to connect to any form of fairness to the plight of immigrants. To work hard, to love your family, to help your neighbors and pay taxes are values that productive people share to maintain a viable system. Daniel Tacuri, an illegal immigrant from Ecuador, had a successful roofing business in Milford Massachusetts; his business was successful because he worked harder and charged less than other operators in the area. From a moral perspective no one can blame Mr. Tacuri for leaving a hopeless life of poverty in Ecuador for a chance of decency for him and his family in the US. To hunt a productive person down, bankrupt him, and deport him and his wife somehow goes against the spirit of liberty and the respect for fairness given to any struggle.

The surge will never right the wrongs

In response to the column written by David Brooks, “The Bush Paradox,” which appeared in the New York Times on 6/24/08, allow me to challenge this type of understanding of a president many compare with some of the worst criminals in history. Even now those guys, I feel are admired by many that have blinders on.

The dead has no voice in judging George Bush; but the some two million Iraqis that fled their homeland that are now living in run-down neighborhoods in surrounding countries described in “Books Not Bombs” Nicholas D. Kristof, New York Times, can see the surge for what it is; a desperate ploy to try to make a wrong look right.

The most transparent understanding of how the Bush administration is perceived is in the dilemma that the most powerful leader of the free world has to sneak in Iraq when a less powerful leader from Iran makes an announcement to visit and is greeted as a hero.

So you see those 28% in which David Brooks is a part of, that approves of George Bush’s three billion dollars a week war in Iraq might be compared to those that approved of such leaders as Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler when they thought they had moments of getting it right.

A chance to make it the people's White House

The following letter was published on June 19, 2008 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Unlike the case with the present occupant, Obama's White House would be the people's White House if he picked Hillary Clinton for his VP. That would be the beginning of his greatest change, to share his glory with Hillary and her 17 million voters; this would be a start for a nation to become whole again.

Even though the Clintons gave the appearance that they were willing to inject race in their campaign out of desperation for Hillary to become her party's nominee, it is a fact that Bill Clinton's White House was the most inclusive White House ever.

Many of us know that the people's voice during the Bush administration matters less than the Maliki government in Iraq. An Obama-Clinton ticket, like no other ticket, would restore credibility to a nation begging for smart, inclusive leadership.

Tim Russert is irreplaceable

The following letter was published on June 17, 2008 by
The New York Daily News
New York, NY

I was shocked to hear of Tim Russert's passing. He had a very special style of politely probing an individual on "Meet the Press." My Sundays will not be the same.

Bush's rat

“Even though I’ve shown nothing but disdain for the Bush administration in many of my letters to the editor, like many I don’t buy into Scott McClellan’s sudden change of heart in his book “What Happened.” It is what it is; a Judas Iscariot greasing his palms while delivering a kiss. The only thought that comes to me from an artist prospective, is McClellan’s head on a rat’s body.

Hillary moments that passed and the now

Think how different the world would be if Monica was never heard of, or, Hillary divorced Bill at the end of his term to run for president; the attention needed on the dots that weren’t put together in the Bush administration might have happened in a Hillary administration; just maybe we would still have the twin towers and the lives that were lost here with us today.

Even though Hillary cast a vote for George Bush to go into Iraq, we all know that vote was meant to strengthen his hand not his desire to leave a heroic legacy and make an appearance on an aircraft carrier claiming “mission accomplished.” We all know a Hillary administration would not have gone into Iraq and maybe Ben Laden would be in custody now.

In the present and the real world, while observing the battles in the primaries between Hillary and Obama, many of us know that Hillary’s moments slipped away in that infidelity exposed by Kenneth Star. Even though Hillary has blazed a historical trail, many of us know as she should and will know that this moment in time belongs to Barack Obama.

A voice of reason

With the seemingly none stop rising cost of oil, the housing slump, and all the dismal links of the falling dollar value, permeates a type of fear among many that we are swept up in some sort of infinite wind storm heading toward a maybe lose it all cliff.

Many of us beg to differ with the ‘stay the course’ strategy in Iraq. That strategy only benefits the other side; it falls into their strategy to bleed America of its resources.

At this moment in time in the US and the world there is a yearning for voices of reason rather than an expensive macho misguided military adventure by an administration that really didn’t understand a culture.

In a nut shell we have three presidential hopefuls; one, many of us fear at the end of the process if she does not become the nominee she will flip the table over; another, many of us fear will continue some of the destructive polices of the Bush administration. The third one, many of us feel has the talent and potential to mend broken fences trampled on by an arrogant administration; he is certainly counted among those voices of reason.

Can we find common ground in November?‏

The duel between the two has brought forth a transparency in America’s politics leaving both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama under tough scrutiny; even though they are from the same political party, they both have themselves the blame for steering that party against itself. I would not be surprise to see Hillary pull a Joe Lieberman if all is lost to Obama. If she ran as an independent McCain would be the next president. Like many voters, I would like to see an end to America’s participation in the Iraq war. Obama’s claims to end that war are more believable to me. It is common knowledge that a McCain administration would continue the mess of the present administration. However, if somehow Hillary Clinton pulled off a miracle in Penn. and other states to follow and she legitimately becomes the nominee, as an Obama supporter, in November I would go into the voting booth, hold my nose, forget about the fabricating and cast that vote like playing a lottery ticket to see what happens. Like many I expect the same out of Hillary supporters if Obama becomes the nominee; they both have made claims to end the Iraq war.

Feds in bailout mode must focus on homes

The following letter was published on April 5, 2008 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

If the government can be instrumental in bailing out Bear Stearns along with giving $12 billion a month to a lost cause once claimed as a noble cause by a president who many think should be in prison, the government should also be able to help those with little means who want to be part of the dream of home ownership.

At this moment in America some borrowers and lenders are looking for some real creativity concerning the dilemma of the subprime loans; they know the rebate checks that will come eventually will be like a one-minute drop of rain after a long drought.

Let's imagine an empathic government that can go beyond judging and actually create a process that would not only realistically jump-start the economy, but put it back in a safe area on track. If the lenders were paid a quarter of all troubled home loans by the federal government and the borrowers were forgiven half of their loans by the lenders, this simplistic type of one-time settlement would bring relief in a compassionate way.

Obama's speech

“I take great pleasure in knowing that Barack wrote his own speech as I had hoped. He has taken the edge off of concerns whether he would be a leader that can step up to the challenges that America and the world are facing today. Not only does he show courage in his run for the presidency; it is revealed as it spills over in his speech written by him. He is truly a leader with unique skills this country cannot afford to pass up on.

Most Americans will not be fooled this time around

I think Hillary and Barack should fight it out to the bloody end. They represent forces that should be heard. The mud they throwing and the battles they are fighting are part of their forces and convictions. The one with the bloodiest nose will eventually join the one with less; Hillary wants to show the country that women are ready and Barrack wants to show that he is ready; they both have legitimate goals. Worry not about McCain; the money spent on the Iraq war, the deaths, the injuries, the ballooned deficit, the decreased dollar value, high oil prices, and the housing slump all happened on the watch of the president McCain has aligned himself with. Most Americans will not be fooled this time around; they know a republican like McCain will not be able to rescue them.

One or the other will become president

Unlike many others some of us believe a little mud slinging during the primaries is actually okay; if it doesn’t stick it strengthens the candidates. Hillary Clinton was called a monster; and many are trying to make Barack Obama just a black candidate and a Muslim. Because of their determination and support the mud is just slipping off revealing the true grit of both candidates. Inside and outside America many are concerned that the muddy politics existing in the Democratic Party will help John McCain which many feel will continue the polices of George Bush. When it is all said and done, I believe like others when a nominee emerges out of a fair process, the emotional attachment to a particular candidate will evaporate; many voters will be reminded of why they joined together in 2006 and why a greater force is needed in 2008.

Americans will vote for the troops to be pulled out of Iraq

Voters are mad as hell at the Bush administration; it's very telling in the millions raised for the Obama campaign. He has raised more money than any presidential hopeful ever; also he has tapped in on the youth vote. McCain's Iraq policy which is no different from Bush's policy will become very clear as wrong when most of the public start focusing on the falling value of the dollar and the connection between the Iranian leader and the Iraq leader. The Iranian leader can make an early announcement that he will be visiting Iraq when the leader of the free world has to sneak in and out; this dilemma hits at the core why we should not be in Iraq. At the end of the day Americans will vote for the troops to be pulled out of Iraq; and, McCain will be left biting the dust of reality.

Obama won't settle affirmative action

The following letter was published on March 4, 2008 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

In response to Sean Gonsalves' Feb. 27 column, I don't think an Obama win would just be about a black win. In my opinion, Obama is winning now because liberal and moderate voters are banding together to take this country back from the neocon extremists let out of a Pandora's box by the Bush administration.

If Obama is elected the affirmative action matter will not be settled, as Gonsalves hinted; years and years of people being pushed behind will not wear off in an Obama administration. An Obama win would be a symbolic defeat of the arrogance that has gripped this country for the past eight years.

Will Iraq be governed by a Theocracy?

“Changing the mindset” captured my attention when those words were spoken by Barack Obama in the debate on 1/30/08 concerning ending the Iraq war. I truly believe as others the wrong mindset lead our country into a never ending war that a presidential hopeful on the republican side stated it may take a hundred years to end.

I admire John Mc Cain’s accomplishments and dedicated service to our country; I truly believe he loves America; however, his position on the Iraq war has the same mindset and tone coming out of the Bush administration; it has a tunnel vision feel to it. It is not just sub prime mortgages that are sending America down a road toward a recession; the mindset that America can sustain a war in a country where the leaders are bidding their time and positioning themselves for the inevitable is a drain on America’s resources.

In spite of the fact that the surge has minimized some of the violence in Iraq, in the eyes of the world and some Americans, a political solution will realistically come in Iraq only after a civil war; at the end of that long war some of us believe theocracy will be the victor and democracy will be the spoil.

A fresh start in a new chapter

With all do respect, the letter to the editor on 1/14/08“America too fragile for a rookie in charge” was a bit of a stretch comparing Barack Obama with George Bush. Like Nicole Warren, the writer, I have a favorable Opinion of Hillary Clinton; however, it disappoints me to know that she was among the ones that cast a vote for George Bush to invade Iraq. She and others let down all those innocent people, Iraqis and Americans, that are dead, maimed or mentally challenged. Because America’s image is in such a slump and the dismal forecast of the economy, I, like many others, would like this country to have a fresh start in a new chapter. Both JFK and MLK Jr. were profound thinkers with writing skills along with being unique orators; they both worked on a new chapter to steer America in a better place; like many, I feel Obama’s skills are certainly reminiscent of the two.

An avalanche is coming aimed at neo-cons‏

We knew the train was coming; some of us had actually read the mood of the Bush administration before those that cast a vote and gave a green light for Iraq to be invaded; not to apologize for that vote shows a disconnect. At this moment in time being connected counts. Too many innocent lives have been lost under a goal post moved and shifted to justify a wrong in front of the eyes of the world.

With many neo-conservatives behind a trillion dollar war translated by many now as US providing security for Iraq while Americans are loosing their security, be aware that many of us see an avalanche coming taking aim at neo-conservatism.

For those voters like myself that voted for a change in 2006 that never happened, not only do we want the page turned, we are asking for a new chapter.

Obama shows himself on a path to greatness

The following letter was published on January 9, 2008 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Barack Obama’s win in Iowa might be the revealing pulse beating elsewhere in the nation; there is a feeling that many like myself were waiting to see how the voters in Iowa would receive him. It is somewhat clear now that there is a real momentum behind Mr. Obama. Like others, I have been reluctant to embrace his candidacy; I had hoped that Al Gore would put his hat in the ring; because that has not happened, I’m drawn toward Barack Obama. His tenacity, courage, and aura of magic certainly have crossed political lines projecting a feeling to many that Barack Obama is on a path toward greatness.

Setting a tone to blame immigrants

Putting myself in the shoes of those immigrants, that are human beings struggling to make ends meet by taking any job for low pay, saddens me when I witness rich presidential rivals using them as a political football; it seems most of those rivals in St. Petersburg FL on November 28, wanted to show to each other and everyone else that they were not “immigrant lovers.” To see the fanes of politicians that are willing to throw immigrants under the bus must be psychological terrorism for illegal and legal immigrants that are family connected. The whole exchange between Rudy Giuliani and Mitt Romney on the immigrant question was parallel to the opposition to civil rights for blacks by George Wallace, a national candidate in the 1964 democratic primaries. Adolf Hittler in Nazis Germany viewed the Jews as the German nation’s true enemy.

With all the demagoguery reflected in America and on political platforms against illegal immigrants, I wonder will the illegal war in Iraq drain our resources to the point where many will blame the immigrants rather than the Bush administration.

Unless rhetoric ends, America will implode

The following letter was published on November 19, 2007 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

I think voters want to hear from politicians they recognize that America's house needs to be put back in to order; the low poll ratings should be a wake-up call for all politicians to have the courage to steer away from focus grouping and get to the crucial points of urgency facing our nation.

The power to end the Iraq war was in the power to end the funding; many of us feel it was a mistake not to because of the rising cost of oil, the housing slump, the decreasing dollar value and that nonstop rhetoric from the Bush administration escalating tension in the world.

A real change is moving away from cocky politicians like Condoleezza Rice, who is talented in dodging the reality side of a question with all smoke and mirrors with the pretense that the real side is relative.

A real change begins when we hear the truth from our presidential hopefuls that if the war in Iraq doesn't end soon, America could be in danger of falling from inside.

Witnessing a UFO is not such a bad claim

He called for the impeachment of George Bush; Dennis Kucinich echoed what a few voters in 2006 wanted done. The other Democratic hopefuls in the10/30/07 debate seems to feel compelled to attack Hillary or pat themselves on back. I didn’t see any real visionary wisdom coming out of any the D. hopefuls, however I was impressed with Mr.Kucinich speaking his mind concerning Iraq being an illegal war; and, that he would indeed talk to all his enemies. Jimmy Carter claimed to have seem a UFO, so why should it be so far out for Kucinich’s claim? Maybe if the other D. hopefuls had witnessed a UFO, they would be more sincere and forthcoming.

Wanted: Empathetic Oval Office candidate

The following letter was published on October 19, 2007 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

I look for a politician who has empathy and wisdom, which I concede is lacking in many.

It frustrates me to hear a politician speak only of America; I yearn for a universal mind among presidential hopefuls rather than too much showmanship. We can't go on as a country judging other nations with a blind eye to our own social ills. It seems each generation, as we turn back the pages of time, slowly opened that door where greed, selfishness and spoil masquerading as progress sapped this democracy of its innocence.

The slump in the housing industry is just the beginning; because we consume more than any other nation this democracy will be the first to show its wounds.

I've not given up; I have faith that eventually someone will show up on the political stage with the raw, unfettered truth. If that person shows up, I will certainly make a wager that that individual's approval ratings would skyrocket.

How about Mr. Al Gore? He could give back to this nation and the world what is lost.

The Few

Many of us understand the concerns raised by Moveon.org. It is a needed and legitimate voice cutting through all the political cosmetics. It is certainly an enemy of the few mentioned in the following: “When wealth becomes in the hands of few, this government will become an impossibility”,John Quincy Adams. That few, the neo-cons, hijacked the Republican Party and drove this country in an un-charted dark area of madness. For many it is hard to see for sure whether or not we can recover.

Too many in the neighborhood and outside see the US as an out of control arrogant bully obsessed with the flow of oil. The oil in Iraq can never be secured by the US because the different factions are more than willing to fight over it as if it is the only pie on the table. That pie to them represents the core of power. They are willing to kill each other off over that power. This is a civil war that at some point will become full blown. We are spending our treasure and blood on a pipe dream turned mess while the world watches on.

Even though the president’s poll ratings are down to 31%,the world will never be able to look at America as having the credibility it once held. According to the polls taken before the invasion of Iraq, 72% of the American public along with many of the present presidential hopefuls supported and believed in the Bush administration pre-emptive war.

The masses and many in our country that took a stand against the invasion of Iraq were referred to by George Bush as a focus group, in which he ignored. This to many represented a dictator incognito.

Recently, the few mentioned above took a stand with the president to veto a bill crafted for poor children. So you see, the few that lost much ground in 2006 would rather remain behind a failed policy with no end near than help the nation’s poor.

No closure for the American majority

In the Bush administration hypocrisy shows up so frequently like a returning thief in the night stealing and sapping away at the American spirit that many around the world wanted to follow.

At a meeting with leaders of Canada and Mexico, Bush said: “ If the government doesn’t respond to demands of the people they will replace the government.” “That’s up to the Iraqis to make that decision, not American politicians.”

Many of us feel at moments that somehow the world is upside down when we hear words from George Bush. He is like a person that has a terrible odor complaining about an odor of another. Does he realize he is ignoring the demands of the majority in his own country? Does George Bush understand that the reason why American politicians are applying pressure on the Iraqi government is because they are adhering to the demands of the American majority?

For those of us that have digested hypocrisy and corruption through out the Bush Administration years which will be coming to a close, not to put impeachment on the table doesn’t give us and the world the closure we deserve.

Will we ever see peace again?

Some of us just can’t connect with any real hope from both parties of presidential hopefuls. It is hard for us to see beyond a war with no end near and the lack of accountability from an administration that chooses to hide behind executive privilege to block links that would expose an administration that put itself above the law. If there is no real drumbeat for impeachment from the presidential hopefuls, the Bush stain on the White House will carry over with the next occupant. We know that a country can’t forge a new direction and change its path in a real way if it is in denial of its wrongs.

How can the next president build credibility and trust under the shadow of a predecessor that lost it in front of the world? How can the world trust America again after giving George Bush two terms in office?

With global warming and world war three standing near, it is like a house on fire not noticed by members inside while divided and fighting among themselves. Many of us are looking for a peace-maker with wisdom in our next president.We know that the road toward peace cannot be paved with denial.

Let's have wisdom and trust back

It was like a western posse forming; some members reluctant and many willing in the beginning stages in the lead up to the war in Iraq. Even though only a few spoke out against a climate of vigilantism, the world and the ones behind the few witnessed a wave of silence while the dissenter’s patriotism was being questioned. Those behind the few and many outside of America stood by and watched how fear was used as a tool to hijack a nation’s spirit.

Some would like to pretend that the Iraq war is just another war like all other wars fought by America. The story out of the trail that led to the Scooter Libby conviction reveals the true nature of a war of choice spun by a deceitful administration.

If we had someone else in the White House masquerading as a democrat practicing the same policy of the present occupant, a certain party would most certainly use impeachment as a tool of choice; Bill Clinton can attest to that. His offence was beneath pale in comparison with the offenses of the present occupant.

While one presidential hopeful stated that the Iraq war is “George Bush’s war” and that “he started it”, a faint drumbeat for impeachment is smothered out by the newcomer compared to a rock star; selling hope.

How can America rejoin that world where trust and wisdom reside? If we can’t find our way back, we will never again be able to lead the way. We can’t find our way back looking the other way.

The perfect candidate is a thing of dreams

The following letter was published on May 30, 2007 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Many who voted in the 2006 elections across the country feel we are being taken for a ride by some of our leaders on both sides of the political spectrum.

We wonder how many others are screening their calls to avoid political fundraisers. We just don't feel we are getting what we voted for on the national stage, and the presidential hopefuls are not saying what we want to hear.

Just think if a well-spoken, brave, knowledgeable lawyer with impeccable credentials appeared on the political stage after the loss of a child in Iraq, with his hat among the presidential candidates on a platform to encourage impeachment proceedings against the Bush administration; online fundraising would skyrocket. If he promised to have the Bush administration go before a world court, the media would start asking the impeachment question, and the Maliki government would no longer be able to milk America's resources.

Presidential hopefuls owe us Iraq preview

The following letter was published on May 18, 2007 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Many of us have been waiting for some type of special sneak preview from our politicians on how the war in Iraq should be turned around. The following is what most would like to hear:

Should we pull out of Iraq and go totally on the defense while creating thousands of Arab-speaking Americans to penetrate the enemy, or stay on the offense and continue to let the enemy turn our strength into a weakness? To deplete and unnerve our resources is the clear strategy of the enemy. Our strategy is to talk tough and ignore that an end is not in sight. To gain support internationally on the war on terror, the lines should be drawn in the psychology of our cause as well as the enemy.

Our presidential candidates should have the courage to show a preview of how the world would be better off if impeachment proceedings were started against the Bush administration.

Accountabilty is long over due

What will come out of the Bush administration Pandora’s box next? The world knows how we treated our prisoners of war; the world knows how we treated our own after Katrina; and now, the world knows how we treated our wounded at Walter Reed. How can a country that prides itself on the maturity of its democracy recover from the shame the Bush administration has brought on it? Hollywood, Congress and the Senate, please step up to the plate and show why at this moment in time, the US should put impeachment on that table with lies that put many in harms way for a war of choice that have caused thousands of wounded humans and the loss of over a half million lives.

A wasted treasure = insecurity at home

Aside from looking at the blood tally, the robust treasure squandered on an illusion fading out in cross-fires, will not stop flowing on a lost cause unless we all see while spurring insecurity in Iraq, America is losing a sense of security at home.

Imagine because of the war in Iraq a co-operation is experiencing cutbacks in many of its programs; subsequently meaning that the pie has gotten smaller and some employees will have to be pushed out creatively.

Lets imagine in this co-operation Jack and Carol were pushed out with a process called, “Putting Employees Against An Employee.” Now that Jack and Carol is gone it leaves other employees left behind with mortgages and car notes, with the thought; who’s next?

Because of money being wasted in a war that should not be, so many Americans like in the Jack and Carol scenario, live in fear that they are going to lose what they have.

Vote to invade Iraq won't be forgiven

The following letter was published on February 12, 2007 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

At this moment in time, talking about ending the war in Iraq will not win the election for some of the candidates running for president.

For many of us, the next vote for the presidency will not be a vote against George Bush, but a vote for bringing closure, sanity, compassion and wisdom back to a nation that lost its way.

George Bush may have pulled the trigger, but his accomplices – the ones who cast a vote for him to invade Iraq – gave him the power. Blood is on their hands as well.

This is not the time for those who cast a vote for Bush to invade Iraq to play politics. So many limbs have been lost, so many lives have been taken, and so many faces and bodies have been burned. Those of us who understood the consequences of invading a nation with hate-filled factions will not forgive those who cast a vote to invade Iraq unless they are willing to put impeachment on the table.