I know that even a successful war against Iraq will require a US occupation of undetermined length, at undetermined cost, with undetermined consequences. I know that an invasion of Iraq without a clear rationale and without strong international support will only fan the flames of the Middle East, and encourage the worst, rather than best, impulses of the Arab world, and strengthen the recruitment arm of al-Qaeda. I am not opposed to all wars. I’m opposed to dumb wars.

(Barack Obama, Chicago, Illinois, October 2, 2002)

Since the Bush Administration has foolishly placed our troops in the frying pan, Obama has taken a more nuanced approach in regard to withdrawal. He has stated that U.S. removal from Iraq must be done with the careful thought that was completely absent in the wreckless decision to invade. Prior to the invasion, Obama never joined the pandering Democrats who were afraid of being perceived as "weak on security." Now he knows that an unconditional withdrawal from Iraq might have disastrous consequences as well. This process of reasoning is not flip-flopping. It is called "thinking."

Imagine. An intelligent person in the White House guiding our nation's policies. There are 194 days left (if you do not count January 20) until the Bush Tragedy comes to an end. Is it possible that someone with a brain will be President? If you are religious, pray to God. If you are superstitious, cross your fingers. In what direction will the 51% go this November? Will they take us to Hell for a third consecutive Presidential election? The fact that it is this close scares me. Maybe the right or privilege to vote should be licensed. Maybe an intelligence test should be administered before one is allowed to cast a ballot. Wreckless voting has so far resulted in the deaths of over 4000 American soldiers. Cars can be dangerous. That is why licenses are required before one earns the privilege to drive. Perhaps it should be that way for voting as well.

As someone with a master's degree in clinical psychology, I think this is an excellent idea. The overall societal cost will be much less than incarceration.

A lot of veterans comes home form Iraq and Afghanistan. Every one facing those difficult times, Due to this people divert to drugs and alcohol. The Judgement of Russell is right consideration of treatment, rather than punishment.

John Philips

Montana Drug Treatment