70 - Mitt’s memory loss

The following letter was published on August 7, 2012 by
The Santa Fe New Mexican
Santa Fe, NM

A scary thought: Romney pushing the wrong buttons in the White House. It is my notion from reading about the remarks Mitt Romney has made — that London may not have been ready for its Olympic moment — and addressing the Labor Party leader Ed Miliband as Mr. Leader, reveals how detached the presumptive Republican American presidential candidate nominee is.

I have read reports that as governor, Romney did not recognize by name everyday officials he should have known. Not only should American people see more of Romney’s tax returns, we should all be assured that he is not suffering from an early form of dementia. In my opinion, Americans should demand a complete disclosed medical exam from Romney. It is a scary thought that he might be forgetting things and that he ends up in the White House.

69 - Truth about Romney

The following letter was published on July 26, 2012 by
The Austin American-Statesman
Austin, TX

I suspect the Bain Capital fiasco, in the sense of Mitt Romney hiding from the truth, is the first big round delivered by the Democrats against Romney's run for the presidency.

In my reading of The Boston Globe account on Romney's tenure at Bain Capital and watching Romney on TV deny the claims, I, like many others, felt Romney wants to buy and lie his way to the most powerful position in the world.

Could this be a common trait among some of the most twisted, wealthiest people in the world? I would think not.

President Richard Nixon was not considered to be among the people with the greatest wealth, yet he claimed he was not a crook.

Time will tell about Romney's denials, as well. I suspect there are other rounds of discoveries that will make his denials transparent. Knowing what many of us know now, I wonder whether there are any regrets on the part of newspapers that endorsed Romney?

68 - Romney's tactic is buy and lie

The following letter was published on July 25, 2012 by
Times Union
Albany, NY

I suspect the Bain Capital fiasco — in the sense of Mitt Romney hiding from the truth — is the first big round delivered by the Democrats against Romney's run for the presidency.

In my reading of The Boston Globe account on Romney's tenure at Bain Capital, and watching Romney on TV deny the claims, I feel Romney wants to buy and lie his way to the most powerful position in the world.

67 - More to be unearthed from Bain

The following letter was published on July 24, 2012 by
Standard Times – South Coast Today
New Bedford, MA

More to be unearthed from time at Bain

I suspect the Bain Capital fiasco in the sense of Mitt Romney hiding from the truth is the first big round delivered by the Democrats against Romney's run for the presidency. In my reading of the Boston Globe account on Romney's tenure at Bain Capital, and watching Romney on TV deny the claims, I, like many others, feel Romney wants to buy and lie his way to the most powerful position in the world.

Could this be a common trait among some of the most twisted wealthiest people in the world? I would think maybe not; Richard Nixon was not considered to be among the ones with the greatest wealth; yet, he claimed he was not a crook. After much of the evidence surfaced during the Watergate investigation, Nixon was found to be what he claimed not to be.

Time will tell about Romney's denials as well; I suspect there are other rounds of discoveries to make his denials transparent. Knowing what many of us all know now from the evidence presented in the Boston Globe, I wonder whether there are any regrets on the part of newspapers that endorsed Mitt Romney.

66 - Bain fiasco the first big round for Dems

The following letter was published on July 21, 2012 by
The Taunton Daily Gazette
Taunton, MA

I suspect the Bain Capital fiasco in the sense of Mitt Romney hiding from the truth is the first big round delivered by the democrats against Romney’s run for the presidency.

In my reading of the Boston Globe account on Romney’s tenure at Bain Capital, and watching Romney on TV deny the claims, I, like many others, feel Romney wants to buy and lie his way to the most powerful position in the world.

Could this be a common trait among some of the most twisted wealthiest people in the world? I would think maybe not; Richard Nixon was not considered to be among the ones with the greatest wealth; yet, he claimed he was not a crook.

After much of the evidence surfaced during the “Watergate” investigation, Nixon was found to be what he claimed not to be. Time will tell about Romney’s denials as well; I suspect there are other rounds of discoveries to make his denials transparent.

Knowing what many of us all know now from the evidence presented in the Boston Globe, I wonder whether there are any regrets on the part of newspapers that endorsed Mitt Romney?

65 - Alfred Waddell: Nixonian Romney?

The following letter was published on July 16, 2012 by
The Providence Journal
Providence, RI

I suspect that the Bain Capital fiasco in the sense of Mitt Romney hiding from the truth is the first big round delivered by the Democrats against Mitt Romney's run for the presidency.

In my reading of The Boston Globe account on Romney's tenure at Bain Capital, and watching Romney on TV deny the claims, I, like many others, feel Romney wants to buy and lie his way to the most powerful position in the world.

Could this be a common trait among some of the most twisted wealthiest people in the world? I would think maybe not; Richard Nixon was not considered to be among the ones with the greatest wealth; yet, he claimed he was not a crook.

After much of the evidence surfaced during the "Watergate" investigation, Nixon was found to be what he claimed not to be. Time will tell about Romney's denials as well; I suspect there are other rounds of discoveries to make his denials transparent.

Knowing what many of us all know now from the evidence in The Globe, I wonder whether there are any regrets on the part of newspapers that have endorsed Mitt Romney?

63 - Is America on the right track?

The following letter was published on July 10, 2012 by
The North Adams Transcript
North Adams, MA

Brown vs. Warren and Obama vs. Romney are battles fought, in my opinion, along the lines of many voters thinking too much ground is being conceded, and many voters thinking the future is reached by everyone having a place at the table.

It is my notion that the crowds drawn by the above politicians reveal the true nature of a leader. A diverse crowd is not seen at a Romney or a Brown event; a diverse crowd is always seen at an Obama or Warren event. America is on track when all Americans have a place at the table.

64 - Candidates' supporters indicate nature of the leader

The following letter was published on July 3, 2012 by
Standard Times - South Coast Today
New Bedford, MA

Is America on track? Brown versus Warren and Obama versus Romney are battles fought, in my opinion, along the lines of many voters thinking too much ground is being conceded, and many voters thinking the future is reached by everyone having a place at the table. It is my notion that the crowds drawn by the above politicians reveal the true nature of a leader. A diverse crowd is not seen at a Romney or a Brown event; a diverse crowd is always seen at an Obama or Warren event. America is on track when all Americans have a place at the table.

62 - Obama gives everyone a place at table

The following letter was published on July 3, 2012 by
The Capital Times
Madison, WI

President Obama vs. Mitt Romney is a battle fought, in my opinion, along the lines of many voters thinking too much ground is being conceded, and many voters thinking the future is reached by everyone having a place at the table. It is my notion that the crowds drawn by the above politicians reveal the true nature of a leader. A diverse crowd is not seen at a Romney event; a diverse crowd is always seen at an Obama event. America is on track when all Americans have a place at the table.

61 - The company they keep

The following letter was published on July 1, 2012 by
The New York Daily News
New York, NY

The crowds drawn by a politician reveal his true nature. A diverse crowd is not seen at Mitt Romney events; a diverse crowd is always seen at President Obama’s. America is on track when all Americans have a place at the table.

60 - Diversity of supporters seems missing among GOP

The following letter was published on July 1, 2012 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, MA

Brown vs. Warren and Obama vs. Romney are battles fought, in my opinion, along the lines of many voters thinking too much ground is being conceded, and many voters thinking the future is reached by everyone having a place at the table.

It is my notion that the crowds drawn by the above politicians reveal the true nature of a leader. A diverse crowd is not seen at a Romney or a Brown event; a diverse crowd is always seen at an Obama or Warren event.

America is on track when all Americans have a place at the table.

59 - Crowds on campaign trail speak volumes

The following letter was published on June 29, 2012 by
The Gloucester Daily Times
Gloucester, MA

Brown vs. Warren and Obama vs. Romney are battles fought, in my opinion, along the lines of many voters thinking too much ground is being conceded — and many voters thinking the future is reached by everyone having a place at the table.

It is my notion that the crowds drawn by the above politicians reveal the true nature of a leader.

A diverse crowd is not seen at a Romney or a Brown event; a diverse crowd is always seen at an Obama or Warren event.

America is on track when all Americans have a place at the table.

58 - Little diversity at Romney events

The following letter was published on June 28, 2012 by
The Providence Journal
Providence, RI

Obama vs. Romney is a battle fought, in my opinion, along the lines of many voters thinking too much ground is being conceded, and many voters thinking that the future is reached by everyone having a place at the table.

It is my notion that the crowds drawn by the above politicians reveal the true nature of a leader. A diverse crowd is not seen at a Romney event; a diverse crowd is always seen at an Obama event. America is on track when all Americans have a place at the table.

57 - Dangerous terrain

The following letter was published on April 24, 2012 by
The New York Daily News
New York, NY

If justice slips away and George Zimmerman is exonerated, every state that has a Stand Your Ground law will experience gun carriers shooting and killing people of color, hiding behind the law and apologizing afterwards — when it is too late.

56 - Clearly racist

The following letter was published on April 23, 2012 by
The Seattle Times
Seattle, WA

In my opinion, George Zimmerman acted as if he had thrown a baseball through a window of Trayvon Martin’s parents with his apology to them for the killing of their son, Trayvon Martin. [“Zimmerman apologizes, granted bond,” News, April 21.]

Like many in America and many other parts of the world, my heart goes out to Martin’s parents for the pursuit of justice in an area of the country where it could slip away. It is my notion that many laws are developed and legislated for the sake of modifying, controlling and preventing criminal behavior.

In the Zimmerman case in Sanford, Fla., a colorblind justice in America is on trial. A 17-year-old African American minding his own business was followed and killed by a man with no authority to pursue him.

Zimmerman was told not to follow Martin by the dispatcher when he made the 911 call to report that Martin was in the area; Zimmerman ignored the dispatcher, followed Martin; whether, Martin turned to defend himself or chose to run, he was unarmed and killed by Zimmerman.

If justice slips away and Zimmerman is exonerated in Sanford, all cities that have the “stand your ground” law will experience some gun-carriers shooting and killing people of color, hiding behind the law and apologizing later.

55 - Color-blind justice is on trial along with George Zimmerman

The following letter was published on April 22, 2012 by
The Boston Globe
Boston, Massachusetts

In my opinion, George Zimmerman acted as if he had thrown a baseball through a window of the home of Trayvon Martin’s parents with his apology to them for the killing of their son (“Fla. shooter apologizes; bail set at $150,000,” Page A1, April 21). Like many in America and around the world, my heart goes out to Martin’s parents in their pursuit of justice in an area of the country where it could slip away.

Many laws are developed and legislated for the sake of modifying, controlling, and preventing criminal behavior. In Zimmerman’s case in Sanford, Fla., color-blind justice in America is on trial.

As I see it, a 17-year-old African-American minding his own business was followed and killed by a man with no authority to pursue him. When Zimmerman made a 911 call to report that Martin was in the area, the dispatcher told Zimmerman not to follow Martin; Zimmerman followed Martin anyway; whether Martin turned to defend himself or chose to run, he was unarmed.

If justice slips away, and Zimmerman is exonerated in Florida, all communities that have “stand your ground” laws will experience some gun carriers shooting and killing people of color, hiding behind the law, and apologizing later.

54 - 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.

53 - 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.

52 - 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?

51 - 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.

50 - 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.

49 - 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?

48 - 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.

47 - 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.

46 - 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.

45 - 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.

44 - 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.

43 - 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?

42 - 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?

41 - 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.

40 - '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.

39 - 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.

38 - 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.

37 - 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.

36 - 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.

35 - 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.

34 - 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.

33 - 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.

32 - Shooting: a sad moment for everyone

The following letter was published on August 7, 2008 by
The Register
Yarmouth, 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.

31 - 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.

30 - 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.

29 - 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.

28 - 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.

27 - 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.

26 - 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.

25 - 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.

24 - 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.

23 - 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.

22 - 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.

21 - 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.

20 - 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.

19 - 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.

18 - 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.

17 - More troops isn't answer

The following letter was published on December 27, 2006 by
USA TODAY

Many Americans know the suggestion to put more troops in Iraq will only prolong the agony of accepting a reality born out of an invasion that was ill thought out. That reality is: America can't impose its will on a broken nation.

Let's hope the message sent by voters in the 2006 elections will resonate among the decision-makers in the Iraq war. Knowing when to fold does not mean "cut and run."

In the minds of many Americans, the Iraq situation is unsolvable with an American presence. A civil war in Iraq can't be resolved by a third party, especially when that third party can't pick sides.

Whether the United States can win in Iraq should not be the question. The question should be: Can a civil war, which has already started, be stopped?

16 - The Iraq factor

The following letter was published on November 12, 2006 by
The Boston Globe
Boston, Massachusetts

"Enough!" fueled the drive toward changing the political landscape in a nation led by an administration that created a quagmire.

Election 2006 is about truth vs. fiction. The impression many of us have is that the Bush administration lacks empathy concerning the mounting human cost in Iraq. Just 18 years ago, many of those dead soldiers were in preschool, kindergarten, and first grade.

No parent wants to raise a child to die in a war that is no longer called noble, and for a president who no longer says, "Stay the course."

The country and the whole world are looking on and expecting a change.

15 - Growing nuclear club necessitates dialogue

The following letter was published on October 27, 2006 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

When we invaded Iraq in front of the world, we revealed how power can be misused in the hands of an arrogant leader.

The interest in and proliferation of nuclear technology is based on foreseeing a future reality. Market forces, resources, religion, distrust and greed are driving the membership up in the nuclear club. The animosity built up in many parts of the world against the Bush administration's policies certainly makes the U.S. the most plausible target for the first attack.

At this moment in time no member in the nuclear club cannot afford dialogue.

14 - Conservatism out, compassion in?

The following letter was published on September 22, 2006 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Many of us feel that Deval Patrick's win in the primary is a sign that conservatism is on its way out and compassion and wisdom are being welcomed. Let's hope other parts of the country share the same mood.

13 - On a collision course with World War III

The following letter was published on August 2, 2006 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Intelligent people can see that the world is moving in a very dark direction in contrast with the false hope and out-of-sync portrayal coming from the Bush administration.

Too many people in America bought into the Bush administration act in their early denials. Now that many have pulled their blinders off, the country and the world are too far down that path, with World War III, standing by waiting near the eleventh hour. Many of us can feel the road the world is speeding on and sense the collision ahead.

Many of us also feel helpless because our leaders, who are supposed to be sane but are not, are in the driver's seat.

12 - Port deal

The following letter was published on February 28, 2006 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Given the track record of the Bush administration, any thoughtful minded person would be suspicious of the port deal: Who was rewarded for sealing the deal; and how much money did that person receive? Was Karl Rove involved?

“I’m trying to conduct foreign policy by saying to people of the world, ‘We’ll treat you fairly’” The above statement by George Bush has the same type of melodrama and tone of a defendant found guilty of murder in a court, offering his car for amends to the victim’s family. It is especially troublesome to hear that the port deal was sealed without George Bush having knowledge of it.

It is un-canny to hear professional people defend the sale of six of our ports to the United Arab Emirates. They are willing to sell their souls even if it means to put the Homeland Security in jeopardy. At this moment in history so many of us are holding on to the notion that at this point the Bush Administration has become transparent even to the folks in the red states. The concern of penetration is a wake up call to every one.

What would George Bush say if this sale is allowed and the country is penetrated through the ports? Again, like not finding those weapons of mass destruction, he would put the blame on the intelligence.

11 - America's evil enemy may be just a fantasy

The following letter was published on February 15, 2006 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

What are we fighting against? Some call it an evil ideology. The Hamas victory gives rise to the question: maybe a theocracy? The protest over the caricatures of the prophet Muhammad reveals that cultural divide; theocracy on one side and democracy on the other.

Can a democracy really sustain itself in Iraq? Will it evaporate like the democracy in Iran during the years of the shah? If in the end democracy loses out in the Arab world to a theocracy, the offensive posture lead by the U.S. is indeed an expensive fantasy paid in billions and blood.

Let's hope after all the smoke and mirrors, and Karl Rove, this country will invest more in a defensive approach by securing our borders, investing in homeland security, and promoting Arabic and Chinese as required languages in the business and culture sciences.

I think it will take some time for all Americans to wake up to what we are fighting against. When we all do finally wake up, we might find that we are fighting against an illusion.

10 - Wanted in the U.S.A.: wisdom, compassion

The following letter was published on September 29, 2005 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

I'm amazed at how the slow response to Hurricane Katrina has somehow been turned around to look as if it were a communication problem between the federal government and the Louisiana state government. Mr. Bush took many trips to New Orleans, and the appearance of being on top of the Rita storm has a type of melodrama that may play well with his base while insulting the intelligence of clear minds.

The thought of putting the Pentagon in control of national disasters is a ploy, maybe, concocted by Karl Rove as a fear mechanism to distract and divide the public momentarily. Controlling the message and providing an illusion seem to be the Bush signature. The Republican Party machine has done a remarkable job at silencing compassion and wisdom by making them out to be liberal traits.

I believe Hurricane Katrina revealed to this country and the world that compassion and wisdom are desperately needed in a country that has been without them so long.

9 - Time to consider pulling out of Iraq

The following letter was published on June 27, 2005 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Let the debate begin and let the enabling of a presidency end.

That the most powerful leader in the free world injected himself in the Terry Schiavo case speaks volumes about his wisdom. His response to the findings of the autopsy has the same type of denial as in not finding those weapons of mass destruction.

To many of us, Rep. Walter Jones Jr. is a Republican waking up to a flowed leader he once solidly supported during the selling of the war. His resolution to come urging the president to plan an exit strategy in Iraq is long overdue.

It is no secret to many in other countries that the American dollar abroad is losing its value. It is no secret that recruitment for volunteer soldiers is down far below the average, while the enemy is volunteering to die. It is no secret to the rest of the world that there are those in the U.S. eager to point out the wrongs of the U.N. while whitewashing the wrongs of the U.S. It is no secret that our president to the world is the most unlikable one we've had of all time.

Isn't it time for a serious discussion for an exit strategy in Iraq?

8 - Is it time for a change of leadership?

The following letter was published on October 18, 2004 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Angela Lebeau’s Oct.12 letter, “U.N. has forfeited any right to respect”, replied to my Oct 6 letter "An Old West parable on Kerry's global test". With all due respect to Ms. Lebeau, her following questions to me - asking why I haven't “criticized the United Nations for foot-dragging in Sudan, where thousands are dying, and for the cover-up regarding the oil-for-food debacle in Iraq” - seem to be right out of George Bush’s toolbox of denials and excuses for invading Iraq.

Like many, I have witnessed the movement of the goal post as it became clear that no weapons of mass destruction were found.

I challenge Ms. Lebeau to not look for wrongs in other nations to justify our leader's wrongs. Ask, is it time for a change of leadership?

7 - An Old West parable on Kerry's global test

The following letter was published on October 6, 2004 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

George Bush challenged John Kerry on the meaning of his remark during the Sept. 30 debate about a "global test" if a pre-emptive strike is used by an American president. Maybe the meaning of a "global test" would be more comprehensible to Mr. Bush if it were put in simple cowboy settings.

Setting 1: Let's imagine this little town in the Old West. A bank was robbed by a robber who claimed the money he took was stolen from him by the bank. The sheriff of the town went to all the houses in the town that had 18-year-old sons and fathers to get them to join a posse to pursue the robber.When the town found out the sheriff was a best friend of the owner of the bank, no one joined the posse.

Setting 2: Let's imagine an honest, loved bank that helped a lot of folks in this Old West town was robbed. The sheriff of this town did not have to ask folks to join a posse: 18-year-olds and fathers volunteered.

George Bush's rush to war didn't pass a "global test" because the human bank of the United Nations was robbed of that respect acquired through time out of mutual wisdom.

6 - Happy to vote 'for' and not just 'against'

The following letter was published on September 26, 2004 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

It’s never too late to take a stand on principle. It has been long over due, finally, from John Kerry. Many of us have stood by too long watching George Bush “sugar coat” the Iraq war. Now that John Kerry is going down that path to challenge the fantasy aspect of George Bush’s portrayal of the Iraq war, many of us can safely say we will not just vote against George Bush, but are voting for John Kerry.

5 - Brace for onslaught: November is near

The following letter was published on September 2, 2004 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

All our political parties, veterans, and non-party affiliates, let's brace ourselves for the onslaught. November is near. Let's keep our eyes on the ball. The ball is what we were told that is not so.

Look at Iraq as a giant power plug, plugged into the US, draining on our resources and blood with no end at sight. Let's not let the “Swift Boat Saboteurs” detract us.

The man living on Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C., told us we were in imminent danger of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. He knows November is near.

4 - A question of timing on going to war

The following letter was published on August 18, 2004 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

The question concerning which presidential candidate will be willing to pull the trigger should not be the question. The question should be: Who has the wisdom to know when?

Many of us know why John Kerry voted to give George Bush the power and tool, if needed, to go to war. Many of us would like to hear something like the following from John Kerry:

"As a war veteran, I voted for the president to go to war to strengthen his hand. As a senator and a veteran, I had hope he would have played his hand wisely. George Bush's rush to war was not out of wisdom. It was out of arrogance."

3 - Inspired by speakers at the Boston convention

The following letter was published on August 2, 2004 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

The performance of Barack Obama at the Democratic National Convention reminded so many of us of John Kennedy, Dr. M. L. King, and Robert Kennedy.

Obama’s spirited speech July 27 transcended and radiated a kind of hope that was lost in the assassinations. Those of us who admire Ted Kennedy knew he would speak his mind. We were not disappointed.

Like Obama, Teresa Heinz Kerry was a pleasant surprise. She spoke with wisdom and sincerity. She left many thinking how lucky John Kerry is, and how lucky the country would be to have her as a first lady.

2 - A war that should not be

The following letter was published on March 7, 2003 by
The Cape Cod Times
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Powell's lost himself in rush along warpath.

Resolution 1441 is echoed so often by the reluctant warrior, so to say.

I admired Mr. Powell before he started beating the drums of war with the Bush administration. When I look at his eyes now, in my view they reveal his inner conflict.

My guess is he was contemplating resigning after the president voiced his opinion on affirmative action. That type of move would have been devastating to the Bush administration and the Republican Party.

It seems Powell's loyalty to those who pushed him ahead, mentioned in his book, and his party supersedes the moral high ground in his consciousness. I can see in his eyes the loss of himself in the drive down the warpath carved out by the right-wing extremists of his party. This drive lacks empathy for all the soldiers and innocent civilians who will die in a war that should not be.

I truly believe now is the moment for the Democratic Party to embrace a core Social Democrat with "Emotional intelligence," as Daniel Goldman called it in his 1995 book of the same name. Emotional intelligence has a lot to do with empathy, which seems to be lacking in many in the current administration's spokesmen.

1 - A Common Interest In The Courage To Make Peace

The following letter was published on December 6, 2002 by
The Barnstable Patriot
Cape Cod, Massachusetts

In our own back yard, in some of the so called best families, drugs, alcoholism, and the rebellious child is spreading like a dark plague creating a continuous evolving cycle, worsening in each approaching generation.

When we say we are fighting for our way of life, does an element of denial exist in the actual tone?

It is a dangerous matter when followers are created out of arrogance, vengeance and a fixed hatred. Hitler was at the wheel of his government when Germany evolved into a one party system.

A lot of hope for the world to come together was lost when JFK was assassinated. The world cried when he left because his words, and his character, carried a universal Understanding.

It is no doubt that the character of America has changed. To restore the trust in the character, courage must be sought on the highest levels. That courage is not courage to make war; it is courage to make peace.

The search for peace should involve a self-examination of our present dilemma. We have troops in areas that are not respected; their life styles and their actual occupation of those areas are resented. We have sided with people holding on to land that is not theirs.

This is just an imaginary scenario:

A Westerner meets a Middle Easterner after death in an imaginary crossover.
The Westerner asked the Middle Easterner:
“How did you get here?”
The Middle Easterner:
“Collateral Damage”
The Middle Easterner asked the Westerner:
“How did you get here?”
The Westerner: “I was part of an economic target”

If only leaders today would set their sights and resources in exploring the stars rather than war, the advancement of mankind would be on the move.

Wishing you Happy Holidays
Alfred R. Waddell