November 2, 2004

Fifty Reasons Why

[Note: October,29 In case you haven't figured out my vote, here it is and here's why. Returned to the top of the page for the duration. ]

Hugh Hewitt asks "Why vote for Bush and What's Wrong With Kerry?"

I'll leave it to others to tackle the second half of that question as they do so ably at the many links off Hugh's site.

The polls are open in California and after I finish this item, I'm going down to the Albertson's Supermarket across from the beach here in Laguna Beach and cast my ballot. It will be the first time I've ever voted for a Republican ticket in a National Election.

Before this, I voted Democrat right down the line. But I was asleep and I was foolish. Now, at least I can say I'm awake.

It's not that I'm overjoyed with George Bush (although at least one of my friends cannot be convinced otherwise), nor that I think the Republican Party is overwhelmingly admirable. None of that. It's never easy to vote when the only viable choices are two, but that's the deal right now. And my job today as a citizen is to choose. So I will choose George W. Bush.

There are many reasons why, but here's 50.

reasonswhy01.jpg reasonswhy02.jpg
That our soldiers like this keep flying and they come home soon with honor.

reasonswhy03.jpg reasonswhy04.jpg
That this hero will not have died in vain, and that our victory means a birth of freedom for Iraq.

reasonswhy05.jpg reasonswhy06.jpg
That men like this are hunted to the ends of the Earth and destroyed.

The Rest of the Reasons

reasonswhy07.jpg reasonswhy08.jpg
That those who would do this to children and the innocent are utterly defeated.

reasonswhy09.jpg reasonswhy10.jpg
That the mass graves vanish never to reappear, and that the animals are given swift and certain justice.

reasonswhy11.jpg reasonswhy12.jpg
That our soldiers fight with valor and that biotoxins are kept from our land.

reasonswhy13.jpg reasonswhy14.jpg
That quislings are shown in their true colors, and the carnage of war kept from our shores.

reasonswhy15.jpg reasonswhy16.jpg
That the cowardice of kidnappers and hate-merchants be brought to a swift end.

reasonswhy17.jpg reasonswhy18.jpg
That the cowardly killings in Spain are answered even though that country lacks the courage to answer them itself.

reasonswhy19.jpg reasonswhy20.jpg
That even though many in Spain died in vain, none of our soldiers will.

reasonswhy21.jpg reasonswhy22.jpg
That the American Flag will be seen around the world as it truly is -- the harbinger of freedom and the last, best hope of Earth.

reasonswhy23.jpg reasonswhy24.jpg
That the secret assassins of tyranny continue to fall before the secret soldiers of Democracy.


reasonswhy25.jpg reasonswhy26.jpg
That children may grow up knowing that soldiers came from far away, and gave their lives so that they could be free.

reasonswhy27.jpg reasonswhy28.jpg
That evil is consumed unto ash, while the good rise up on the prayers of comrades.

reasonswhy29.jpg reasonswhy30.jpg
That those who order the murder of children be exposed as the butchers they are.

reasonswhy31.jpg reasonswhy32.jpg
That the creatures who would do this to an American or to any human be removed from the future of the world by any means necessary.

reasonswhy33.jpg reasonswhy34.jpg
That the body bags of Beslan are never seen in Baltimore.

reasonswhy35.jpg reasonswhy36.jpg
That the killers of babies are sent to the Pit.

reasonswhy37.jpg reasonswhy38.jpg
That corrupt institutions are expunged from our soil, ..... and that... this,
reasonswhy39.jpg reasonswhy40.jpg
... and this,       ... and this,
reasonswhy41.jpg reasonswhy42.jpg
... and this,       ... and this,
reasonswhy43.jpg reasonswhy44.jpg
... and this,       ... and this,
reasonswhy45.jpg reasonswhy46.jpg
... and this,       ... and this,
reasonswhy47.jpg reasonswhy48.jpg
... and this,       ... and this,
reasonswhy49.jpg
never happen again.

reasonwhy50.jpg
And that Freedom reign.

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Posted by Vanderleun at November 2, 2004 2:35 PM | TrackBack
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AMERICAN DIGEST HOME
"It is impossible to speak in such a way that you cannot be misunderstood." -- Karl Popper N.B.: Comments are moderated and may not appear immediately. Comments that exceed the obscenity or stupidity limits will be either edited or expunged.

A silent moment in salute to you sir...

...thank you.

Posted by: Mr.Atos at October 19, 2004 4:44 PM

Sorry for the dupes, but your site locked up with a repeating error message. fyi!

Posted by: Mr. Atos at October 19, 2004 4:46 PM

Hugh Hewitt is telling about your presentation
and although I am crying I know the American
voters will not allow the president to lose,
they are too strong for that to happen. Thanks
for the hard work done to show us once again
what the reality is in the world.
thanks.

Posted by: carole at October 19, 2004 4:50 PM

Thank you! A Vietnam vet. God bless America and her troops.

Posted by: capt. george burk at October 19, 2004 4:55 PM

Thank you! A Vietnam vet. God bless America and her troops.

Posted by: capt. george burk, usaf (ret) at October 19, 2004 4:55 PM

I also cried looking at your blog. Thank you. I believe this is extremely important, especially since my son is a Marine. If I may I would like to add the photos of the bombed US Embassy in Kenya and the USS Cole. We have lots of reasons to make sure this never happens again, Anne Gomes

Posted by: Anne Gomes at October 19, 2004 4:57 PM

Powerful. Just posted a link to it over at Little Green Footballs. I hope your photo essay gets e-mailed to our troops, too.

Thank you for another outstanding post.

Posted by: Connecticut Yankee at October 19, 2004 5:05 PM

That sums it all up nicely.

Posted by: Stephen at October 19, 2004 5:06 PM

Once again, you've said it superbly.

I am afraid I have to link to your blog again, even if people talk.

Posted by: Grumpy at October 19, 2004 5:13 PM

You are a true patriot. Thank you, and God bless our nation.

Posted by: RKA at October 19, 2004 5:23 PM

Thank you. The whole world needs to see and absorb your very, very powerful post, especially those who find truth so difficult to view. You caught my soul. God Bless America, our super troops and you,sir. MaryW.

Posted by: Mary Wadsworth at October 19, 2004 5:24 PM

It is my hope that this site becomes as widely read as it deserves to be. Thank you for actually voting your conscience - something too few of us seem to do. For those voting the wrong way out of fear of offending the other misled souls of the world, I recommend two minutes viewing this stirring reminder of what we are fighting, and fighting for.

Posted by: Allens at October 19, 2004 5:31 PM

Thank you.

Posted by: Working Grunt at October 19, 2004 5:33 PM

If Kerry is elected, who will guard the door to my house, my neighbor's doors, my communities' doors? The Marines, the Army, the Coast Guard, the FBI or my local police?

The location of the war will shift from Bagdad to MainStreet, USA. The elites will constantly conduct seminars to discuss the situation. They will discuss ways to get the population to accept the nusance of death on our streets from terriorists.

Meanwhile my wife, my kids and I will have to take turns manning the baracades of the fire free zones helping our neighbors and communities survive.

Posted by: Ford Williams at October 19, 2004 5:41 PM

I'm forwarding to friends and relatives -- thanks and God bless!

Posted by: Scott at October 19, 2004 5:43 PM

I weep to see, to remember, to know
that though the sorrow be true,
our land be sound.
That though the world knows tears,
(and so do I)
I will stand, salute America and
all she stands for.
Thank you for helping us remember.
Bill

Posted by: Bill Weber at October 19, 2004 5:48 PM

Thanks for a moving exposition and presentation. I agree with you about having reservations about some of President Bush's policies (although perhaps not the same one). But, one thing is clear. There is a choice to be made between a strong leader and a non-leader. From my blog partner and I at IntheFight, three cheers for your eloquence in word and picture.

Posted by: Steve Blakemore at October 19, 2004 6:02 PM

Hey Hugh, Thank you so much for all you do for America! I'm an educator who is also thankful for how hard you worked to support IUSD (parcel tax) a few years back. Surprisingly, I am also a huge "W" supporter- am trying to get the word out to my colleagues. They are a tough sell, esp. becuz of NCLB. Haven't heard you address this on your show and would love to hear your take on it. So far, this is the one thing I find extremely disappointing about Pres. Bush's policies. We are spending more time testing than actually teaching! (What happened to the feds getting out of local school management?) Please comment.
Thank you!
Dianne

Posted by: dianne weie at October 19, 2004 6:06 PM

Gee, thank you all for your kind words. I appreciate all them.

Posted by: Van der Leun at October 19, 2004 6:12 PM

Thank you for a powerful presentation. I casted my early ballot in Tarpon Springs FL for GWB this morning. You did not have to convince me but hopefully you will convince many undecided, that in these dangerous times the choice is clear, GWB is the man.
Robert Franzoni

Posted by: Robert Franzoni at October 19, 2004 6:24 PM

Thank you.

Posted by: Genny at October 19, 2004 6:43 PM

Thank you. I have chosen George W. Bush. My faith and trust have directed me. This presentation only confirms that I have made the right selection.

Posted by: Mary V. Abeyta at October 19, 2004 6:47 PM

Superb essay....I am not often moved to tears...this did. Your point elegantly made.

Posted by: Nancy Ballance at October 19, 2004 6:48 PM

It is a war of survival, least we forget - Values over words, actions over good intentions. Thank you Hugh, and especially GW for his steadfastness...

Posted by: Scott Rogers at October 19, 2004 6:58 PM

That should be its own TV on ad ala 527s. Excellent.

Posted by: Steel Turman at October 19, 2004 7:02 PM

I had not seen the photo of the beheaded American hostage for months until today. (I am ashamed that I cannot remember his name). I have never seen the photos of the body bags of Beslan. Nor those of Madrid. And thanks to the desire of the MSM to have us act as though 9/11 never happened, in the past three years I have seen precious few pictures of that day the Twin Towers fell.

I'm certain there are few in America who thank God every day for John Kerry. And I'm equally certain that hundred of thousands if not millions of Americans who thank God for George W. Bush. Thanks for reminding me why I am voting for George W. Bush. Twice.

Posted by: Scott at October 19, 2004 7:05 PM

I read your posting at our public library and openly wept. Thank you for reminding us what it is all about. A VietNam vet.

Posted by: Nick at October 19, 2004 7:06 PM

From a guy who voted for Clinton twice (to my eternal shame) here's to Bush redux. President John Kerry would get somebody killed.

Posted by: Bat Guano at October 19, 2004 7:17 PM

They say a picture is worth a 1,000 words. Let's pray that America wakes up and can truly see the Truth! Cathie in California

Posted by: Cathie at October 19, 2004 7:27 PM

Thank you for reminding us.
How quickly we forget.
Truly shocking.

Posted by: michelle at October 19, 2004 7:29 PM

Mr. Truman,
The beheaded Americans names are Nick Berg and Paul Johnson.

Posted by: Van der Leun at October 19, 2004 7:36 PM

John Kerry once said that the Vietnamese didn't know the difference between democracy and Communism - and that only 3,000 would be affected if we pulled out of Vietnam. They do and millions were affected - and he still is clueless. George W. Bush has been given to this country by God to lead us through a dark and dangerous time. I pray every day that the majority of Americans will see this and re-elect him. Thank you for your beautiful and moving essay. Beth in Winters

Posted by: bethtopaz at October 19, 2004 8:30 PM

Sir, Thank you for reminding us that freedom isn't free, for honoring the willing few who daily risk their lives to serve and protect us, and for honoring those heroes and their families who've made the ultimate sacrifice, paying the full price of freedom for the rest of us, even for those who hate America - U.S. Army Vet, firefighter

Posted by: Lawrence J. Bach at October 19, 2004 8:36 PM

An eloquent reminder that the GWOT is real. Bush is taking the fight to the terrorists where they are. That course must continue until they are eliminated. CAPT Brent Ramsey, USNR (Ret)

Posted by: Brent Ramsey at October 19, 2004 8:36 PM

I hope millions of Americans see your pictures. We need to be remeinded why we are fighting and for what. My ancestors have defended this country since the Revolutionary War. I still believe it & what it stands for is worth fighting for.

Posted by: Ginny at October 19, 2004 8:37 PM

Sir,You are powerfully persuasive. I hope everyone in the battle ground States gets to see your presentation. God help us if we would to let John Kerry to get into the White House, for that would be to make a mockery of all the sacrifices made by our heros(and their family) in defending this Country and in spreading peace and democracy to the world.
Thank you for your excellent post.
Joe Ma
Morgantown,WV

Posted by: Joe Ma at October 19, 2004 8:37 PM

do u think it can wipe out terrorists from the earth just by weapons? Do u think Bush can protect us from attacking by terrorists? It is u who r wrong!weapons can never control weapons! Wars can never eradicate war! i think you are asleep now!and all the persons who have decided to choose Bush are asleep!It's a big tragdy for American if Bush succeed in the election! the tragdy is waiting for us in near future!

Posted by: Wood at October 19, 2004 9:12 PM

do u think it can wipe out terrorists from the earth just by weapons? Do u think Bush can protect us from attacking by terrorists? It is u who r wrong!weapons can never control weapons! Wars can never eradicate war! i think you are asleep now!and all the persons who have decided to choose Bush are asleep!It's a big tragdy for American if Bush succeed in the election! the tragdy is waiting for us in near future!

Posted by: Wood at October 19, 2004 9:12 PM

This is the best answer to the question that could have been made. I will forever be amazed at the talent and insight that is living in our great country.

Dick

Posted by: Dick Winiker at October 19, 2004 9:15 PM

Wepons in the hands of brave and courageous men and women who are willing and able to defend the right. All evil needs to succeed is for good men to remain asleep. Awake and vote! Let everyone choose. Just because a Democrat did the registering does not mean that they are all sheep and believe that the corruption of the U. N. is the way to peace.

Posted by: Walt at October 19, 2004 9:47 PM

Thank you sir, for reminding us why good men fight. The struggle to form and maintain democracy demands constant vigilance. Thank God their are those who are willing to put themselves in harm's way for us all. Go U.S.A.

Ben in Arizona

Posted by: Ben Kent at October 19, 2004 10:22 PM

Thank you for reminding us what/who an American is.
Pegleg Pete
High Country, USA

Posted by: Pegleg Pete at October 19, 2004 10:35 PM

Thank you.

Posted by: Elroy Jetson at October 19, 2004 11:51 PM

Ever since I became eligible to vote, I've voted (mostly) Democratic. This will mark the first time I'm voting for a Republican president. I voted for Clinton twice, too...and Jimmy Carter also. I used to admire Ralph Nader. I'm also a pro-choice feminist. And I know I'm in good company. I still don't understand how "enlightened" citizens of the U.S. can so willingly be terror apologists, hate Israel, and support the UN. At least I'm not going to be one of them! Thank you for a powerful assemblage of images that remind us of what's really important. See you at the polls!

Posted by: Linda Levitan at October 20, 2004 1:37 AM

Thank You! Your picture essay was excellent. These are images that need to be seen over and over again--lest we forget. Too many people have rationalized their support of Kerry by downplaying the true danger that terrorism brings to our world.

Posted by: Lynn Lee at October 20, 2004 5:00 AM

Thank You for the powerful photo essay. I am voting for GWB and I know that he will bring the justice needed to our enemies. I hope every person who votes sees this first.

Tom in Arizona

Posted by: Tom Howard at October 20, 2004 5:08 AM

It's a true shame that every American not be required to view this. GOD willing the animals who hate freedom and liberty will be eliminated from the gene pool forever.
Thank you Sir for this site. Thanks to LGF site for directing me here. God bless you and all us AMERICANS. LET FREEDOM RING all around the world.

Posted by: Doug Gasque at October 20, 2004 7:03 AM

Oh HELL YES!

Could this be sent to the Hollywood power-brokers? I would love to see Mahr, Moore, et al as they watched this one. The eloquence of other posts is very appropriate and speaks to the touching nature of the struggle and of loss. Having let those images and the pain of events since September 11th register once more, my next response is to SUPPORT VICTORY in the face of such a horrible enemy.

Dan Patterson

Posted by: Dan Patterson at October 20, 2004 7:03 AM

May I add to Bethtopaz: I go to a young Viet manicurist who works her head off to help support her family and is gloriously appreciative of the opportunity to do so. I asked why she came to the US and her instant answer was "Freedom." She told me how her family went hungry and were reduced to eating rats and insects to survive....that's what Kerry had us do to these people. Thanks for your great picture message. Myrt

Posted by: M. Murchison at October 20, 2004 7:18 AM

Very good.

Wood: Your post is an argument to do nothing, ever, in response to anything. Does the word "try" exist in your vocabulary, you know, make an effort to do something? If not, get a dictionary and look it up.

Posted by: Mike at October 20, 2004 7:47 AM

I was a democrat until September 11 2001.

I will be voting for G.W.Bush.

9/11 hit too close to home for me, a close family member of mine is a survivor of the world trade center attacks.

AND I WILL NEVER FORGET OR FORGIVE.

Posted by: Julie at October 20, 2004 8:58 AM

i will never forget, but we have to realize that the middle east is a bloodbath and a shit hole that the world needs to face, not the U.S. alone. we are losing our well trained men and women for a cause that the world needs to be involved in. WAKE UP PEOPLE!!

SAS
CO, USA

Posted by: SAS at October 20, 2004 9:26 AM

I fly my flag 7/24/365 and have done since 9/11
I fly it in honor of those who lost their lives that, day and In Honor of All Our Military, Home and Away, and For Those Who Gave the Ultimate Sacrifice for Our Freedom.
I am proud of and support our troops.
I am proud to be an American.
I am proud to support and vote for President George W. Bush.
I salute you for such a moving story

Posted by: Peggy Kane at October 20, 2004 9:42 AM

Why are the Dems lying to us when they know the truth? Want WMD info about Iraq? Read Bodanskys book. pgs,55,231,241,438,496& 499. Iraq War. Maybe John K missed the itel meetings. The towers were our wake up call, Wake up. Ed ex US Army.

Posted by: E Kaleta at October 20, 2004 9:50 AM

Damn. That is the most touching, compelling, insistent argument to vote for Bush that I've seen. Thanks for reminding me of why I'm proud to be an American.

Posted by: P Brauman at October 20, 2004 10:05 AM

Sas...you need to wake up.

The UN is CORRUPT, Germany, FRANCE were getting bribe money from saddam, that is WHY they did not want to disrupt a $$good thing$$ for them self's.

Do you want to put YOUR trust in the hands of country's who put Greed over HUMAN RIGHTS and freedom for everyone (NOT JUST YOU) in the world so we ALL can live in Peace??

Or are you one of those hypocrite liberals who scream for their rights but care less for anyone else's rights in the world?

Do you remember what Bill Clinton said in 1998 about Saddam and Iraq's WMD's...

Please Read pull your head out of the sand.

SADDAM REGIME THREATENS REGION, WORLD, AMERICA

"His regime threatens the safety of his people, the stability of his
region, and the security of all the rest of us.

What if he fails to comply, and we fail to act, or we take some ambiguous third route which gives him yet more opportunities to
develop this program of weapons of mass destruction and continue to
press for the release of the sanctions and continue to ignore the solemn commitments that he made?

Well, he will conclude that the international community has lost its will. He will then conclude that he can go right on and do more to
rebuild an arsenal of devastating destruction.

And some day, some way, I guarantee you, he'll use the arsenal."

- President Clinton, February 17, 1998
http://www.cnn.com/ALLPOLITICS/1998/02/17/transcripts/clinton.iraq/


John Kerry is a panderer, and how people can't see that makes me think of Jim Jones..and all those 900 people who drank his cool-aid.

Posted by: Julie at October 20, 2004 10:09 AM

I am so proud to be among the Bush camp. How can we ever forget 9/11-ever. There is not one person on this earth that is perfect and to do everything right is not possible. To be in his shoes is too overwhelming. Thank you for this post to remind us again and again that America has changed forever.

Posted by: btravelstead at October 20, 2004 10:29 AM

God Bless America! and lets pray we re-elect George Bush so our country remains safe.

Posted by: John at October 20, 2004 11:22 AM

You always know where GWB stands! No FLIP-FLOPPING with him!! He is consistent in his decision making, demanding in getting results and is very definitive in his plan for Iraq. Kerry has told us nothing about his plans, all I know is that he has a plan for everything, but what are the plans?

I have backed GWB all the way in this war. Kerry will undo everything that GWB has done. PEOPLE be careful, you may just get what you wish for!

A VOTE FOR KERRY WILL MAKE THE WORLD SO SCARY!

I personally do not wish to find out what SCARY KERRY has in store for us, his record speaks for itself. Unchartered territory ??? Think about it.

GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!

Posted by: Debbie at October 20, 2004 12:21 PM

You always know where GWB stands! No FLIP-FLOPPING with him!! He is consistent in his decision making, demanding in getting results and is very definitive in his plan for Iraq. Kerry has told us nothing about his plans, all I know is that he has a plan for everything, but what are the plans?

I have backed GWB all the way in this war. Kerry will undo everything that GWB has done. PEOPLE be careful, you may just get what you wish for!

A VOTE FOR KERRY WILL MAKE THE WORLD SO SCARY!

I personally do not wish to find out what SCARY KERRY has in store for us, his record speaks for itself. Unchartered territory ??? Think about it.

GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!

Posted by: Debbie at October 20, 2004 12:21 PM

You always know where GWB stands! No FLIP-FLOPPING with him!! He is consistent in his decision making, demanding in getting results and is very definitive in his plan for Iraq. Kerry has told us nothing about his plans, all I know is that he has a plan for everything, but what are the plans?

I have backed GWB all the way in this war. Kerry will undo everything that GWB has done. PEOPLE be careful, you may just get what you wish for!

A VOTE FOR KERRY WILL MAKE THE WORLD SO SCARY!

I personally do not wish to find out what SCARY KERRY has in store for us, his record speaks for itself. Unchartered territory ??? Think about it.

GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!

Posted by: Debbie at October 20, 2004 12:22 PM

Those are moving images indeed, but how again does that show that we need four more years of Bush? Those deaths in Spain, as cowardly an act as that was, are a direct result of Bush rushing us and the "coalition" to war. The deaths of those brave contractors were a result of Bush's poor planning of the occupation.

What again do those pictures of 9/11 have to do with us going to Iraq?? Why do you not have any photos of Bin Laden? Maybe because Bush doesn't think he's important?

I'm not 100% behind Kerry, but I do know from his experiences and what he says, that he respects the lives of our military. And will not be wreckless in how he deploys them.

Posted by: Mike Simms at October 20, 2004 12:41 PM

Haile Selassie, former Ethopian Emperor in a 1963 speech before a special session of all places, the UN, gets it…. “Throughout history it has been the inaction of those who could have acted, the indifference of those who should have known better, the silence of the voice of justice when it mattered most –  that has made it possible for evil to triumph.” Fits like a glove. Events leading up to 9/11, the war on terror, and liberation of Iraq.

Posted by: John B at October 20, 2004 1:03 PM

I would just like to ask all you people who like John Kerry so well, if he gets in the White House, how are you going to like fighting the enemies of our country in the streets of our cities instead of Iraq? Thats what we are over in Iraq for! Duh!
Rog. in MS.

Posted by: Roger Blackburn at October 20, 2004 1:11 PM

I would just like to ask all you people who like John Kerry so well, if he gets in the White House, how are you going to like fighting the enemies of our country in the streets of our cities instead of Iraq? Thats what we are over in Iraq for! Duh!
Rog. in MS.

Posted by: Roger Blackburn at October 20, 2004 1:11 PM

Roger: So are you saying that our invasion of Iraq has actually made you feel safer walking the streets of Mississippi? No evidence suggests that Saddam was on the verge of deploying troops to our shores anytimes soon.

Everybody (even the "Liberals") are happy that Saddam is no longer in power, but by invading Iraq for completely different (and now false) reasons, Bush has not made us any less of a terrorist target.

Posted by: Mike Simms at October 20, 2004 1:53 PM

Mike, how many times have the terrorists carried out attacks on U.S. soil since 11 September 2001?

None. Zero. Zip.

Obviously, President Bush has made our country less of a terrorist target. I suggest you find another argument, one that isn't obviously contradicted by the facts.

Posted by: Harry at October 20, 2004 2:30 PM

Harry: were the Anthrax letters not terrorist attacks?

What are the facts that Bush has made our country safer from terrorist attacks? Are you talking about how his administration has tried to stonewall bi-partisan commisions from looking into our intelligence failures? Or how he let his energy/chemical industry buddies off the hook from better securing their facilities? Or better inspecting the cargo coming into this country?

Posted by: Mike Simms at October 20, 2004 2:57 PM

Mike,
Do you not know that an enemy who is running from you is less able to attack you? It's basic war philosophy. Read The Art of War sometime. I, for one, would much rather be attacking than defending. And yes, Fighting them over there and keeping them in defense mode has made me feel safer here. Don't fool yourself about Iraq, it was a terrorist state.
-also, side note, UBL is not the only person of note on the side of terror, to think that he is is just naive.

-Nate

Posted by: nate at October 20, 2004 3:48 PM

AMEN.

Posted by: kermit at October 20, 2004 5:22 PM

I am proud to be an American. I'm proud of our president and I pray daily for him that God will guide him in all decisions he makes. I'm proud to support our military personnel. I too served in the military. Please pray for victory in November and a rapid victory in Iraq. God bless America!!!! Ferris Cromwell

Posted by: Ferris Cromwell at October 20, 2004 6:30 PM

We are at the edge of an abyss--a Kerry victory will see us over the edge !

Posted by: Fred Smith at October 21, 2004 4:33 AM

Soon, this place might be as popular as free-republic.

Posted by: princehal at October 21, 2004 5:07 AM

Interesting viewpoints! On election Day we ALL need to THINK, methinks. Never mind Party Alliance, Never mind 'We ALWAYS voted [this or that], Never mind - - - - tells lies, Never mind - - - - - - flip-flops; Just before you vote, say a silent prayer [to whomever you pray to] and ask for Guidance - THEN vote what your heart tells you to do!

Posted by: ricfoster at October 21, 2004 6:27 AM

Killing terrorists doesn't work? It won't solve the problem?

Gee, I thought killing workled real well with the Imperial Japanese Navy and the Wehrmacht.

Oh, and to be pre-emptive: I realize there is no terrorist country to surrender to our forces or negotiate a peace with. That also means the terrorists do not have an assured training area and base of supplies. That is a weakness of theirs, not a strength.

Posted by: Mikey at October 21, 2004 7:33 AM

This is beautiful tribute. I am a Bush supporter and it sums up my feelings better than I can. Thank you!

Posted by: carroll at October 21, 2004 8:08 AM

Thank you for your beautiful and thoughtful photo essay. I would like to add a few additional reasons to vote.
-to make sure my kids can study any religion they want without fear or censorship even if the religion they choose is wrong
-to know that if my kids are ever wrongfuly accused of a crime they will be entitled to a lawyer and a fair trial
-to know that if an evil man ever does become president (it could happen in a thousand years or so) the Americans of that generation will be entitled to dissent
-to let our brave soldiers know that the freedoms they fought for will not be willingly surrendered to fear

There are more than 2 parties offering candidates this election season the libertarian party, the green party, and the reform party all made the ballot in florida this year, so saying you don't like either candidate is not an excuse.

Posted by: Liz at October 21, 2004 8:37 AM

It is refreshing to see so many Bush fans. I was beginning to think the world didn't care that our leader should be led by his faith in God. Your rendition was absolutely enlightening. Hope every democrat can see the truth before it is too late. Become a true christian and see the truth.

Posted by: Virginia at October 21, 2004 8:38 AM

Save my soul Virginia!

Posted by: Mike Simms at October 21, 2004 8:44 AM

Nate

You are correct in thinking more Americans should read the Art of War. The full text can be found online at http://www.chinapage.com/sunzi-e.html

Here are a few good quotes for those who don't feel like reading the whole thing

Chapter 1
"26. Now the general who wins a battle makes many calculations in his temple ere the battle is fought. The general who loses a battle makes but few calculations beforehand. Thus do many calculations lead to victory, and few calculations to defeat: how much more no calculation at all! It is by attention to this point that I can foresee who is likely to win or lose."

Chapter 2
"6. There is no instance of a country having benefited from prolonged warfare.
7. It is only one who is thoroughly acquainted with the evils of war that can thoroughly understand the profitable way of carrying it on."

Chapter 3
"1. Sun Tzu said: In the practical art of war, the best thing of all is to take the enemy's country whole and intact; to shatter and destroy it is not so good. So, too, it is better to recapture an army entire than to destroy it, to capture a regiment, a detachment or a company entire than to destroy them.
2. Hence to fight and conquer in all your battles is not supreme excellence; supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy's resistance without fighting.
3. Thus the highest form of generalship is to balk the enemy's plans; the next best is to prevent the junction of the enemy's forces; the next in order is to attack the enemy's army in the field; and the worst policy of all is to besiege walled cities."

Again, I highly suggest every American read this text in its entirety as it has tremendous signifigance in these troubled and dangerous times.

Posted by: Liz at October 21, 2004 9:26 AM

Absolutely magnificent, Gerard. God willing, we'll make the right choice 12 days from now...

Posted by: maestro at October 21, 2004 9:31 AM

Yeah, IRAQ was the enemy. Is the kool-aid good? The right choice 12 days from now is John Kerry. And you all know that.

Posted by: princehal at October 21, 2004 11:19 AM

You just keep drinking that deep Well water Dan. Beams!!!

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at October 21, 2004 12:15 PM

God bless you, God bless the families of the fallen and the murdered, God bless the people fighting for our freedoms, God bless President George W. Bush, and GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!

Posted by: Jinx McHue at October 21, 2004 12:58 PM

Our president looks to the Lord for the answers, how can he EVER go wrong? God bless the troops, their families and God bless George W Bush.

Posted by: Angie D at October 21, 2004 2:34 PM

Thank you for this. It proves that being a Californian and an American are not mutually exclusive. Ed Panzella

Posted by: Ed Panzella at October 21, 2004 5:11 PM

Wonderful. Thank You.

Posted by: gcotharn at October 21, 2004 5:47 PM

Thank you..We need our President to stay...He is strong in his beliefs, honor and love of this country and the American dream. He exemplifies what we as Americans are---Freedom, dignity, honor and love of God, freedom of speech, religion and above all the right to VOTE! God Bless!

Posted by: Tregelles Family at October 21, 2004 10:55 PM

Thank you..We need our President to stay...He is strong in his beliefs, honor and love of this country and the American dream. He exemplifies what we as Americans are---Freedom, dignity, honor and love of God, freedom of speech, religion and above all the right to VOTE! God Bless!

Posted by: Tregelles Family at October 21, 2004 10:55 PM

Thank you..We need our President to stay...He is strong in his beliefs, honor and love of this country and the American dream. He exemplifies what we as Americans are---Freedom, dignity, honor and love of God, freedom of speech, religion and above all the right to VOTE! God Bless!

Posted by: Tregelles Family at October 21, 2004 10:55 PM

YEAH BUDDY!!! GOD BLESS AMERICA! GO BUSH & OUR TROOPS WE ARE PRAYING FOR YOU ALL!

Posted by: DJ Westby at October 22, 2004 8:54 AM

Please God let us not forget one of these pictures. God bless America and be with those fine men and women who defend us and to our leaders who guide us. I am proud to be a voting Republican. Betty in NY state October22,2004

Posted by: Elizabeth Prosser at October 22, 2004 9:13 AM

Thank you. This should be seen by every American. Vote for George W. Bush.

Posted by: Friend of Boots and Sabers. at October 22, 2004 10:10 AM

Sadly it has always been the case ...& will always be the case that the strong in America will have to protect the weak & weak minded. Unfortunately the weak minded in America have sided with those who would kill all of us! But does that surprise anyone? Haven't the weakminded in America said & continue to say that its ok--& even preferred that 30 million babies have been killed? Its terribly depressing until someone like you does the right thing...again--by reminding all of us why America is here---why American's are here! Go "W"!

Posted by: avon at October 22, 2004 1:28 PM

Well what a surprise, the insurgents are here posting their nonsense about their frenchy friend Kerry. Know what Queen Hal? You're going to be even more lame in a few weeks because that's when you demorats are going to be 2-time losers.

What we have to watch out for now is dirty tricks. The voter registration records are so ridiculous that there's obviously a ton of fraud there, plus those idiots are going to be intimidating poll workers in swing states with "poll watchers", plus armies of the evil trial lawyers out to paralize our victory with nuisance lawsiuts. Well I'll tell you. If the Rats are looking for trouble, they're going to find trouble.

Posted by: Floyd Jackson at October 22, 2004 2:25 PM

Oh and like they all said, God Bless America! I notice how the left-wingers don't say that

Posted by: Floyd Jackson at October 22, 2004 2:27 PM

That is something special. It made me cry. I am a vetran of the U.S. Submarine force. I believe we need a COMMANDER IN CHIEF. I will vote for Mr. Bush. Downing Kerry achives nothing. Your images say all that needed to be said. Thank You. Steven J. Wright

Posted by: Steve Wright at October 22, 2004 5:16 PM

Thank you. When America remembers. Bush will win big!
On 9/11, Americans too young to remember Pearl Harbor learned how it felt to have their nation viciously attacked in acts of war. At first we were united by shock and grief, but our tears soon turned to stony resolve. In the days that followed, the descendents of what Tom Brokaw called “The Greatest Generation” suddenly knew for the first time an aching patriotism—the kind that makes generations willing to fight bravely so the next may live freely.

The WWII generation knew that pulling together wins wars. In 1944, the morning after the allied invasion at Normandy pushed back the Nazis, can you imagine a politician announcing that 10,000 American soldiers had died in that day’s “colossal miscalculation”? Imagine him rebuking FDR for “taking his eye off the ball” for going after Hitler when it was Hirohito in Japan who attacked us. And nine months later, imagine the public outcry if, instead of the picture of the Marines hoisting our flag on Iwo Jima, a stumping senator held up a picture of some of the 7,000 Americans who died on that island and declared, “Wrong battle. Wrong island. Wrong time!” Such demoralizing defeatism would not have been whispered 60 years ago, and I suspect it will backfire on Kerry before November 2.

We did not rush to war. Nor were we “mislead” by Clinton, Bush, and Blair. The thoroughness of the Duefler Report was impossible before we ousted Saddam, and though it indicates that there are no longer stockpiles of WMD in Iraq, it also explains why the UN sanctions and inspections were a game of cat and mouse before the war. Our troops are doing a great job, and as for me, I will joining the 75% of them who USA Today reports will cast their votes to keep President Bush as their Commander in Chief.

Posted by: ElKapiTom at October 22, 2004 5:17 PM

I have been scrolling up and down, up and down for nearly thirty minutes now, and I am moved beyond words to express my gratitude for such an expressive piece which lifts the spirit and upholds the values that our nation embraces.

Thank you, thank you, and thank you again.

Dick

Posted by: Richard Ponte at October 22, 2004 6:09 PM

Well done sir.

Viet Nam Vet

Posted by: Dan Krawczyk, SMSgt, USAF, Retired at October 22, 2004 6:13 PM

I was very moved by this. A hundred essays fail to capture what your photo montage has done to underscore what is at stake in this election. Thank you

Posted by: clark wade at October 22, 2004 6:35 PM

Thank you for the pictorial reminders. They help to keep us focused on the real reasons we are fighting in Iraq. So many young uneducated Americans have short memories and are easily distracted by clever visual tricks and sound bites produced by disengenous film makers. Lets pray they do not become life long liberals.

Posted by: Ralph Woods at October 22, 2004 7:52 PM

I could not have said it any better myself. GWB all the way for four more years and another good Republican for eight more years after that.

Posted by: Jack Hazzard at October 22, 2004 9:54 PM

I could not have said it any better myself. GWB all the way for four more years and another good Republican for eight more years after that.

Posted by: Jack Hazzard at October 22, 2004 9:54 PM

I could not have said it any better myself. GWB all the way for four more years and another good Republican for eight more years after that.

Posted by: Jack Hazzard at October 22, 2004 9:55 PM

The cut off head was too graphic, but I do agree with you.

Posted by: Elizabeth Fleming at October 22, 2004 9:57 PM

My fear is that many in America will not remember how hard we were hit on 9/11 until it happens again on our soil. So many seem to have forgotten. They give no credence to other attacks around the world and continue to criticize President Bush's efforts to stay on the offensive against terrorism. Thank you for helping all of us to remember. GWB for President!

Posted by: Dave Peterson at October 22, 2004 10:10 PM

God Bless GWB and the US military.Vote GWB 4 more years.

Posted by: H. O'Toole at October 22, 2004 10:43 PM

Powerful.

Welcome to sanity and reason. Your party left you and we are happy to embrace you.

God Bless You and our President GWB and especially our military and their families.

Jeanette Kahl

Posted by: Jeanette Kahl at October 23, 2004 1:05 AM

Thanks for sharing so much with so many.........
especially me.
I too, like our Commander in Chief, refuse to be drug back into the 12th century.

Marty Malin

Posted by: Marty Malin at October 23, 2004 8:43 AM

I will be voting for Bush. After watching Sen. Kerry and observing his voting record for the past couple of years I am convinced that his heart is not in preserving American freedom, nor spreading world-wide freedom. As I see it, a vote for Bush is tanamount to a vote for freedom. I know 3/4 of my military comrades stand behind me in this. America - please stand with us! God bless

Posted by: Chris H. at October 23, 2004 11:30 AM

Excellent piece. I hope you don't mind, but I have some friends here who do not have internet access, so I've copied your piece into Word in order to make copies to hand out and also to make it easier for those who can view attachments to see this. Maybe I'll email this to George Soros.

Posted by: Roy Kinch at October 23, 2004 1:37 PM

the current Anti Americanism runnning rampant on the Dems side is embarrasing. it, not the Bush Administation, is what is making this election cycle so divisive. I was walking down the street in downtown Portland yesterday, and there was a grop of filthy hippy wannabes signing up ppl to vote with a huge Kerry sign, and a stack of books titled Spawn of Satan. on the front cover was a photo of Dick Cheney. i detest Kerry as a politician, but to call him the spawn of Satan? now whos being devisive?
is it possible that the terrorists in Iraq and elsewhere, dont see Ted Kennedy crowing quagmire every day for the last year from the floor of the Senate?

Posted by: Todd Gerritzen at October 23, 2004 1:51 PM

the current Anti Americanism runnning rampant on the Dems side is embarrasing. it, not the Bush Administation, is what is making this election cycle so divisive. I was walking down the street in downtown Portland yesterday, and there was a grop of filthy hippy wannabes signing up ppl to vote with a huge Kerry sign, and a stack of books titled Spawn of Satan. on the front cover was a photo of Dick Cheney. i detest Kerry as a politician, but to call him the spawn of Satan? now whos being devisive?
is it possible that the terrorists in Iraq and elsewhere, dont see Ted Kennedy crowing quagmire every day for the last year from the floor of the Senate?

Posted by: Todd Gerritzen at October 23, 2004 1:52 PM

Thank you for your comments and insight. God bless you and your work.

Posted by: Brenda Welch at October 23, 2004 2:17 PM

A splendid essay in every respect. Heartfelt congratulations on a job exceedingly well-done.

Posted by: weaselteeth at October 23, 2004 2:53 PM

May my daughter only read this and think of her children's future and how important her vote is.

Posted by: w. coughenour at October 23, 2004 5:48 PM

Bravo.

Posted by: Lexington Green at October 23, 2004 5:58 PM

This needs to be a TV ad. I'm reduced to tears. Thank you sir.

Posted by: A. Letterie at October 23, 2004 8:03 PM

THANK YOU...THANK YOU.....THANK YOU....YOU HAVE
SAID IT ALL....THE WHOLE COUNTRY NEEDS TO SEE
AND READ THIS....you brought tears to my eyes...
GOD BLESS AMERICA....PRAY EVERYDAY

Posted by: liz at October 23, 2004 8:49 PM

Excellent! Brilliant! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Posted by: David at October 23, 2004 11:29 PM

I believe the choice is easy...
George W. Bush has never fought against this country. Never in time of war did he meet with the enemy.

John Kerry cannot say this.

I do not understand who could vote for a traitor.

Posted by: Stephanie at October 23, 2004 11:47 PM

I can not believe there are still so many americans who want an incompetent liar and deserter to be their president again.
but then again, if you choose this idiot, you deserve him.
But don't forget that the next generation (even earlier) will have to pay for this warminded fool.
And if he continuous his war against ghosts for much longer the tour of duty will be back.
I'm so glad I am not an american citizen.....I have children who want to live in honesty, respect and peace...
Good luck to all of you!

grtz
Yessss

Posted by: yesss at October 24, 2004 12:34 AM

And if you really want some objective information: have an open eye for what has been happening the past few years. Just listen to Bush' lies about Iraq.
Fahrenheit 9-11 was not full of lies, otherwise the author would have been 'hanged' by the republicans.
'In plane sight' and 'hijack' are far more interesting than the pictures you are showing. Nothing new about them. Exactly a republican way of dealing with facts.
And if you think I'm not against terrorism, than you must reconsider.
When Bush said: "who is not with us, is against us" he meant: Follow the leader (that's me),or you will be marked a 'terrorist'.
Please, do the world a favour and stop this sick man!!


grtz.
Yesss

Posted by: Yess at October 24, 2004 12:42 AM

Saddam is connected to al-qaida?
LOL
Saddam had weapons of mass destruction?.
LOL
We want to free the Iraqi people?
LOL
We treat our prisoners regarding the Geneve-conventions?
LOL
Everybody is equal. even if you are gay?
LOL
The white-house was hit by a Boeing?
LOL
Anthrax envelopes?
LOL
Bush (or any other member from his administration, or their kids) fougth for his country?
LOL
Being against this war means being unpatriotic and means you don't support those serving in Iraq?
LOL
Pricision attacks, clean war, everything under control?
LOL
And all of this is not for the oil and stratigic occupation in the middel-east, but it is all about providing freedom to teh rest of the world?
LOL
Ans because I wrote this down I don't respect the veterans?
LOL,
I have served in Eastern Europe, I know what I am talking about. Screw chickenshit BUSH (excuse my words, but I've changed and become less diplomatic since my tour)

Posted by: ClausMerginz at October 24, 2004 1:03 AM

And oh, don't forget...
You won't like this blasfemic idea...
But I think....
God is not dead, but he is currently working on a less prestigeous project,....

Posted by: Yess at October 24, 2004 1:09 AM

http://www.xs4all.nl/~vantrier/vets.swf

another set of photos. Be carefull, it's not what you think..

Posted by: ashamed at October 24, 2004 12:08 PM

On the Capitol Mall lying between the monuments of two great Presidents there rests a black stripe of mourning. Inscribed thereon are the names of men....men who cry out from the depths of that black granite to tell us that, "its only quiet when it rains."

Kerry gave a speach yesterday in which he stated that he would attack the terrorists the same way he did when in VietNam. Well, he finally told one truth. I'm sure he would keep this promise if elected. Kerry can talk all he wants but the physical evidence shows him giving aid and comfort to the enemy. He is a traitor to the US and would kiss the ass of all our enemies. We would be building more monuments to fallen and missing comrads.

The only necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing. As a man and a Vietnam Vet I for one will vote for a man who has the respect of our armed forces and even our enemies. George Bush is truly a Commander In Chief.

Posted by: J.C. Parker at October 24, 2004 12:18 PM

http://www.bushflash.com/occupied.html

Posted by: Birke at October 24, 2004 12:24 PM

THANK YOU! It seems we who care, run out of amunition every now and then. I can reload now. In case anyone needs amunition, I suggest you check http://www.texasbobsworld.com/third_world_war.htm
and more recent "Election determines fate of nation" by Mathew Manweller, which appeared in the Daily Record, newspaper in Ellensburg, WA. Manweller is a Central Washington University political science professor. www.kvnews.com/articles/2004/10/23/manwellercolumn

Posted by: Hal at October 24, 2004 3:34 PM

I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW ANYONE COULD EVEN THINK OF VOTING FOR KERRY. I'M FOR BUSH ALL THE WAY. HUNTERS IN THE WORLD NEED TO REALLY THINK HARD WHO THEY WANT FOR PRESIDENT. IF THEY ARE NOT CAREFUL THEY WON'T HAVE A GUN. IF GUNS ARE OUTLAWED ONLY OUTLAWS WILL HAVE GUNS. THINK ABOUT IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!VOTE GEORGE W. BUSH .............GUNS DON'T KILL PEOPLE.......PEOPLE KILL PEOPLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!911 NO ONE SHOULD EVER FORGET IT WAS THE EMERGENCY WAKE UP DAY.

Posted by: Eunice at October 24, 2004 4:29 PM

Thanks, that was beautiful. Made me cry.

Posted by: Patricia at October 24, 2004 5:32 PM

Very moving photo essay. Pretty much says what this election is about. God bless America.

John

Posted by: John at October 24, 2004 7:22 PM

I thank God everyday that GW was President that fateful day in September. Al would of been sitting in a corner crying his eyes out.
Thank you so much for reminding those who forgot.

Posted by: Angela at October 24, 2004 10:19 PM

Having served in Korea during the war gives me a different perspective about some things that are accepted today. For one --during the Korean war time, if someone was seen burning the American flag, he would have been shot on the spot. If he had been seen collaborating with the enemy, he would have been AT LEAST court marshaled and if it had been known that he removed his military ribbons and defiantly cast them down showing utter disgust and contempt for his nation, the soldiers of that era would have taken him on and he would not look like the pompus ass, well-kept poodle he now is. It makes as much sense to have a traaitor for a President as it does to put an ashtray on a motorcycle. Look out for slick-talking people --- they may flush us all down the drain. I'm a staunch Bush supporter and I ask God to bless America --- but God help us REALLY, if Kerry wins this one.

Posted by: Bill Floyd at October 25, 2004 7:54 AM

Thank you for putting my thoughts into words! If everyone gets out and votes instead of leaving it to the other guy, we may actually have an election for once! MAKE YOUR VOICES HEARD!!!

Posted by: girl keni at October 25, 2004 10:52 AM

Can you feel the looooooooove tonight....

Posted by: princehal at October 25, 2004 1:32 PM

The photo essay was so moving....so many pictures, so many thoughts and so many horrific memories. If you could get this past the naysayers and MSM powers-that-be, it would make one excellent ad for GWB.

Without any vitriole or hype, Kerry is guilty by his own admission one at least one crime...either treason or violations against the Geneva-Hague Convention. Either one, under a microscope, should DQ him from any serious contention....he gets a free pass.

No reason to attack him...he does that well enough for himself. The sad thing isn't that he panders...it's that very few call him on it. The MSM acts as if he can actually have two opposing viewpoints on each issue and that's okay. If we act as lemmings and follow the path laid out for us, we'll perish as lemmings.

It only takes a little independent thought about what matters to each of us, some independent research confirmed by multiple sources to guide our knowledge, and a clear mind, unfettered by the garbage that we're being force-fed by those who find us incapable of thinking for ourselves and it all becomes crystal-clear.

I lost my father, my uncle and second cousin in Vietnam, my grandfather fought in WWII and Korea and I served in Grenada, Panama, Honduras, Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom and I have a heavy heart. This is the most important election in my forty years of life. I only pray that we understand what this truly represents. I look at my four-year and eighteen month old daughters and pray that they never see what I saw on the morning of September 11.

Posted by: Scott at October 25, 2004 1:43 PM

It's so discouraging to read the thoughts of Bush backers and realize how completely brain-washed you all are.

God Bless Kerry! God Bless America!

I found the use of these pictures to be in incredible poor taste. Much like Cheney's use of fear to promote his brain-dead running mate.

Find the truth...it's out there.

You want something else to remember? George W Bush has killed over 14,000 men, women and children in Iraq...

Posted by: AnnCoulter at October 25, 2004 2:36 PM

You want the TRUTH? The truth is right here, staring you in the face. 50 TRUTHS. These photos are not in poor taste, they are every AMERICANS REALITY and I refuse to forget because a traitor like Kerry or anyone else says I should. I will remember, my husband will remember, my children will remember, and I pray every TRUE AMERICAN WILL REMEMBER!

Posted by: Sandi M at October 25, 2004 3:50 PM

I remember when hearing on the radio while driving to work Sep 11th that the World Trade Center had been attacked with passenger planes. And then immediately thinking a force of pure evil had just been loosed. We are fighting much more than terrorists. This is a wake up call to American to get back to the God who gave us this great free country and stand up for it by voting as we are privileged in this country to do. Supporting our troops and praying for them. Fighting evil and puting the right God fearing man in the highest office to do this. I am voting for Bush to see us thru this. Let's not attack each other but pray we do the right thing, as one day we will all be held accountable. God guide us as we cast our votes, our lives and many others depend on the outcome.

Posted by: Nancy at October 25, 2004 10:59 PM

Love it....Long Live America

Posted by: Brian Beck at October 25, 2004 11:57 PM

I will pray for poor stupid souls such as Scott.

Posted by: Kerry at October 26, 2004 8:00 AM

I will pray for poor stupid souls such as Scott.

Posted by: Kerry at October 26, 2004 8:00 AM

What happened on September 11th could easily happen again; let us never forget that and never forget which president stood by us. No effective war is ever fought quickly; freedom costs a price. Don't ever forget what the United States stands for! President Bush, you have my vote again.

Posted by: Cindy at October 26, 2004 8:49 AM

The comment by Ann Coulter ( 6th) from the botton is either some imposter or Ann has gone plumb nuts.Ann Coulter has been a bearer of good for Bush too long to be bushwhacked by a Kerry supporter. Keep up the good work. Lyle Mac

Posted by: Lyle mcdaniel at October 26, 2004 9:13 AM

The comment by Ann Coulter ( 6th) from the botton is either some imposter or Ann has gone plumb nuts.Ann Coulter has been a bearer of good for Bush too long to be bushwhacked by a Kerry supporter. Keep up the good work. Lyle Mac

Posted by: Lyle mcdaniel at October 26, 2004 9:13 AM

The comment by Ann Coulter ( 6th) from the botton is either some imposter or Ann has gone plumb nuts.Ann Coulter has been a bearer of good for Bush too long to be bushwhacked by a Kerry supporter. Keep up the good work. Lyle Mac

Posted by: Lyle mcdaniel at October 26, 2004 9:14 AM

The comment by Ann Coulter ( 6th) from the botton is either some imposter or Ann has gone plumb nuts.Ann Coulter has been a bearer of good for Bush too long to be bushwhacked by a Kerry supporter. Keep up the good work. Lyle Mac

Posted by: Lyle mcdaniel at October 26, 2004 9:14 AM

Where are those wonderful Abu Ghraib pictures...lest we forget that as well...

Posted by: AnnCoulter at October 26, 2004 11:11 AM

Kerry, Thanks for your prayers. Regretfully, you resort to typical liberal tactics and switch to the name calling mode. You don't know about me or my intelligence level, but you refer to either me or my soul as stupid. That is expected. I have taken the oath four times in my career that gives you the protection to speak out against that in which you do not believe. The lives of people like me pay the price for you to have an opinion which can be shared. Would you take an oath against your life that would allow me to speak out against you and your beliefs? Assuming that you are a Kerry supporter and further assuming that you would in fact take the oath that allows me to speak out against the popular beliefs, how do you reconcile yourself to the point that your candidate either shot a child in the back ( a war crime) or lied in his After Action Report in which he described the enemy combatant( a felony under the UCMJ)? Either crime should DQ him from the presidency. Do not be surprised if it comes to light that his discharge from the USN was under less than honorable conditions. One does not garner the attention of a special review board for a typical discharge. I do not wish to sway your opinion. I merely ask that you study the facts. Additionally, ask yourself why your candidate will not sign an SF180 allowing the release of all of his military documents.

Posted by: Scott at October 26, 2004 12:47 PM

Kerry, Thanks for your prayers. Regretfully, you resort to typical liberal tactics and switch to the name calling mode. You don't know about me or my intelligence level, but you refer to either me or my soul as stupid. That is expected. I have taken the oath four times in my career that gives you the protection to speak out against that in which you do not believe. The lives of people like me pay the price for you to have an opinion which can be shared. Would you take an oath against your life that would allow me to speak out against you and your beliefs? Assuming that you are a Kerry supporter and further assuming that you would in fact take the oath that allows me to speak out against the popular beliefs, how do you reconcile yourself to the point that your candidate either shot a child in the back ( a war crime) or lied in his After Action Report in which he described the enemy combatant( a felony under the UCMJ)? Either crime should DQ him from the presidency. Do not be surprised if it comes to light that his discharge from the USN was under less than honorable conditions. One does not garner the attention of a special review board for a typical discharge. I do not wish to sway your opinion. I merely ask that you study the facts. Additionally, ask yourself why your candidate will not sign an SF180 allowing the release of all of his military documents.

Posted by: Scott at October 26, 2004 12:47 PM

George Bush could have prevented 9/11.
He chose not to.
George Bush could have tracked down Osama Bin Laden.
He chose not to.
George Bush could have listened to the world's conscience when the largest gathering of protesters ever stood up against his desicion to bomb Iraq.
He chose not to.
George Bush has made this world a more dangerous place, not a safer one. And if he is re-elected, I think someone will probably assasinate him.

Posted by: mark at October 26, 2004 1:25 PM

Actually Scott, Kerry's prayers were for me, AnnCoulter...dominatrix of the right. So...he resorted to typical conservative tactics of name calling.

GOD IS A LIBERAL!

Posted by: AnnCoulter at October 26, 2004 2:33 PM

God hates liberals and God hates people who disrespect patriots like Ann coulter, who isn't really you.

Posted by: Floyd Jackson at October 26, 2004 4:59 PM

Ahh...another typical conservative tactic: "hate"

What a wonderful fantasy world you must live in Floyd. To call me a patriot. You know that's not true...I'm a hate-mongering, liberal bashing religious bigot! Get it right...and please pick up a copy of "How to talk to a liberal, if you must." Available at www.barnesandnoble.com.

Hey Floyd, what do you think God told George W Bush to do today? Dribble more nut-job rhetoric farted out of Karl Rove's mouth?

Posted by: AnnCoulter at October 26, 2004 7:23 PM

It is a real shame what is happening to this country! The fact that a person like Kerry would even be considered as a president. Where are people's morals?? There is proven fact via video or audio tape of Kerry's "flip flops" and lies but people choose to ignore them. People only see what they want to see. They have tunnel vision! Kerry's add about how we are loosing jobs because companies are taking their work to other countries really gets me. How many facilities does Heinz have in other countries? Right off the Heinz website "Heinz became a leader in the nutrition and wellness revolution. He created major company production bases in Spain, Portugal and New Zealand and penetrated such challenging markets as South Africa, Russia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, South Korea, China, India, Egypt, Botswana and Zimbabwe". "H. J. Heinz Company today is an enterprise with over 110 major locations worldwide". Talk about a hypocrite???

Strong Conservative

Posted by: Strong Conservative at October 27, 2004 3:14 AM

Thank you. This should be seen by every American. Vote for George W. Bush. True Americans will remember!! GOD BLESS AMERICA!!

Posted by: Amanda Weeks at October 27, 2004 1:12 PM

Kerry is a lock-in with illegals,Muslims,dead people,dual voters,GBLT''s,academics,MSM,trial lawyers,teachers unions,blacks,felons,and cowards.We few left must take up the slack-VOTE next tues-even if you have a hang-over! SEMPER FI Nick_T

Posted by: Nick_T at October 27, 2004 9:33 PM

Thank you for this great piece. All Americans should see the importance of having a president that will stand up for what is RIGHT! The true American Way! GOD BLESS AMERICA!!

Posted by: Larry Palestina at October 28, 2004 11:49 AM

God Bless America!
And God Bless ALL those who fight to keep her free.

Posted by: miker the biker at October 28, 2004 2:05 PM

We sure need a decisive person in the White House now and I sure have my doubts about Kerry.
Lots of luck to us all.

Posted by: Nam Vet #??? at October 28, 2004 2:36 PM

A very nice dictation and we should always remember………….. C Brown

Posted by: C. Brown at October 28, 2004 4:29 PM


Thank you for putting this into words and pictures as powerful as these.. God Bless America, and God Bless our president, George W. Bush - and may he be our leader for 4 more years.

Posted by: Connie at October 29, 2004 11:28 AM

I had never seen the pictures of the burned body hanging from the bridge - truly horrific. Seeing people having to jump from the World Trade Center still gives me chills to core; I pray that this country will open their eyes and reelect the only person who can protect us.

Jennifer

Posted by: Jennifer at October 29, 2004 11:41 AM

what do you guys consider right? do some think that going on this "war on terrorism" will stop terrorism? i was reading some of the posts. they were talking about how bush has made america safer. how? one person talked about how there hasn't been any terrorist attacks on america since september 11th. however the wtc had been bombed once before. it was back in 1993. it had been 8 years until the actual destruction of the WTC. these attacks had taken that long. where is the proof that america is safer? TSA was created. advanced security all over america. airports have extensive searching and has gotten to the point where even a pair of nailclippers can be considered weapons. has it really made america safer? or is it just piece of mind? just because "terror" doesn't happen often, doesn't mean it never will. some people say that americans should vote for bush because they should see the truth. what truth is that? please elaborate.

Posted by: Felix at October 29, 2004 12:15 PM

what do you guys consider right? do some think that going on this "war on terrorism" will stop terrorism? i was reading some of the posts. they were talking about how bush has made america safer. how? one person talked about how there hasn't been any terrorist attacks on america since september 11th. however the wtc had been bombed once before. it was back in 1993. it had been 8 years until the actual destruction of the WTC. these attacks had taken that long. where is the proof that america is safer? TSA was created. advanced security all over america. airports have extensive searching and has gotten to the point where even a pair of nailclippers can be considered weapons. has it really made america safer? or is it just piece of mind? just because "terror" doesn't happen often, doesn't mean it never will. some people say that americans should vote for bush because they should see the truth. what truth is that? please elaborate.

Posted by: Vincent at October 29, 2004 12:15 PM

what do you guys consider right? do some think that going on this "war on terrorism" will stop terrorism? even in trying, this won't deter terrorism. it will curb it to an extent but will never stop. i was reading some of the posts. they were talking about how bush has made america safer. how? one person talked about how there hasn't been any terrorist attacks on america since september 11th. however the wtc had been bombed once before. it was back in 1993. it had been 8 years until the actual destruction of the WTC. these attacks had taken that long. where is the proof that america is safer? TSA was created. advanced security all over america. airports have extensive searching and has gotten to the point where even a pair of nailclippers can be considered weapons. has it really made america safer? or is it just piece of mind? just because "terror" doesn't happen often, doesn't mean it never will. some people say that americans should vote for bush because they should see the truth. what truth is that? please elaborate.

Posted by: Vincent at October 29, 2004 12:16 PM

Re: Felix/Vincent?
I don't know what "we" consider right, I only know what I consider right. I don't even want to speak for my nephews who are either in or soon will be in Iraq; if I wasn't a broken-down old fart I'd be there, too. But I do know that there is a right and wrong of things.
Murdering innocent people for your version of the truth in the WTC, or Darfur, or stoning them to death on a soccer pitch in Kabul, or slowly sawing off their heads on video is not right. Giving in to those who commit this evil for their prophet is not right, either.
If we abandon our responsibilities we cannot assert our rights nor can we demand our freedoms if we do not accept the sacrifices that preserving our liberties demand. The minimal disruption in our lives that increased vigilance and awareness require are trivial compared to the consequences of shirking our duties.
Has President Bush made the country safer? I can't speak for you but I believe that he has and will continue to do his best to keep US safe. I believe that he has the honor, the ethics and the love of country before love of himself that makes him the right person, in the right place at the right time.
If we accept that we are confronted with an impacable, fanatic enemy who cannot be defeated, then we are doomed to defeat. Understand that evil can never be defeated in the simplistic version that Mr. Kerry espouses, but can be constrained and held at bay. Understand also that the struggle is continuous and the "war" on terrorism must be fought by whatever means necessary for as long as necessary, even for another 1300 years.
So, God Bless Mr. Bush, he has this refugee's vote and I will also watch the sun set over Catalina on 11/2, raising my glass in "Na Zdrowie" for four more years.

Posted by: Husarz at October 29, 2004 1:55 PM

Even better the second time. Although my irreverent 3/4 keeps playing the Team America song, "Whot would yew dew . . . ?"

Naughty brain. Stop it.

Posted by: Uncle Mikey at October 29, 2004 8:29 PM

Outstanding collage and treatise!
from a Vietnam Vet but with merely one Purple Heart,
Jim

Posted by: Jim Tuttle at October 30, 2004 9:52 AM

This is a site for idiots! American idiots!!!

Posted by: Bush sucks!! at October 30, 2004 9:53 AM

Hey, Gerard. I thought OBL was dead? Didn't you post that on your site just a few days ago?

And: Why are you people thinking that Bush will keep us safer? Did you forget that he was the one who was supposed to be in charge when 9/11 happened in the damn first place? Do you all have Stockholm Syndrome or what?

Posted by: T. at October 30, 2004 11:25 AM

Actually, my dear fellow, I've been pretty agnostic on the question.

You may have read that here as a quote from another site.

And perhaps you may be thinking of this little item this week: "A Cave in Tora Bora"

http://www.americandigest.org/mt-archives/002480.php

You'll see that that item, fanciful as it may or may not be, says precisely the opposite of what you claim is being said here.

I am pleased, however, that you seem to have mastered the concept of "Stockholm Syndrome." I hope it didn't take too much coaching.

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at October 30, 2004 11:49 AM

He may have mastered it, but you Gerald seem to be living it.

Posted by: princehal at October 30, 2004 1:51 PM

Another good reason to vote Bush ...

http://www.keystonesoldiers.com/staticpages/index.php?page=20040523092412148

Posted by: Cliff Soon at October 30, 2004 10:45 PM

Ignorant Americans. This site shows that there are so many US citizens out there just as narrow-minded as the 'villains' they accuse. Oh, and there are more biological weapons on US soil than that of any other nation. Oops. Guess you can scratch that one!

Posted by: Palestine at October 30, 2004 10:46 PM

My God, Gerard. I mean, just....God. I'm speechless. Well and beautifully said, my friend.

Posted by: Mike at October 30, 2004 11:04 PM

GOD BLESS THE AMERICAN WARRIOR

MAY HIS SWORD BE STEADFAST

HIS BLOW DECISIVE!

Posted by: Vote Bush at October 30, 2004 11:08 PM

Uh, and his AIM precise!

Posted by: Tom at October 30, 2004 11:22 PM

NEVER FORGET !!!

Posted by: Steve at October 30, 2004 11:40 PM

Thank you. This is beautifully done, and a powerful reminder of the reasons to vote for Pres. Bush.

Note to Palestine: America discontinued their offensive biological weapons programs in 1969. Please see Bio Weapons by Country/State and
References.

Saddam actually used biological weapons. Given your attempt at moral equivalence, if you had them I absolutely believe you would use them. With Saddam out of power, there is one less place where you can get them. That's one of the biggest reasons why we are in Iraq.

Posted by: Thankfully Not Insane or a Dem at October 30, 2004 11:45 PM

Wow. I mean, great work. I was going to vote for Bush anyway, but if I weren't, this photo essay would surely have convinced me. (Notwithstanding Osama bin Laden's endorsement of John Kerry.)

Posted by: Sean Gleeson at October 31, 2004 12:07 AM

Thanks for your extremely moving photo essay.... I am forwarding it to everyone I know.

A side comment...I have read the posts from the tiny minority (thankfully) of those who cannot emerge from their partisan deathtrap hatred of Bush long enough to get a glimmer of understanding that sometimes in history, their liberties have to be defended, which your photos eloquently communicate.

That kind of vitriolic mentality will always be with us, and what they do not realize is that their crude, hate-filled, name calling merely confirms what we already know about them, and they do nothing to persuade, they just drive more voters to Bush. The contrast is self evident to everyone but them.

In the meantime, thanks very much for your efforts!

Posted by: Erich Sielaff at October 31, 2004 12:17 AM

well done sir. god bless America.

Posted by: jason at October 31, 2004 12:39 AM

I fail to see how so many of the horrible situations that Dubya has contributed to or created in the photos above provides evidence toward why he should be elected. They make a better point as to why he should be REMOVED from office.

obviously.

Posted by: contrapunktus at October 31, 2004 12:43 AM

It amazes me that so many fail to see that every single one of those atrocities happened on this president's watch.

The main tactics I see from the right are fear mongering, and disenfranchisement. If you don't voet for the president you aren't patriotic.

I hear people calling Kerry a traitor. How so? 20 years in federal governemnt compared to 4? Serving in Vietnam as opposed to occasionally serving in Texas? Oh... maybe it's that he said really bad things when he came back from vietnam. True things... but bad. Things people didn't want to hear.

The current preimptive policy has been histroically tried, it's true. And it has failed every single time. It was the policy held by Emperial Japan, Nazi Germany, and Fascist Italy. Every single governemnt that has had a policy of "destroy your enemies before they can get to you," has failed. It creates an atmosphere of paranoia nad over extends your resources.... it can not work.

Meanwhile only 5% of all cargo into the US is inspected. If a bomb were to go off in a cargo container... just one bomb... it wouldn't even have to kill anyone... America would be brought to it's knees because of current procedure... which would be to stop all shipping in or out of the US until investigated. If only three days passed we would loose hundreds of billions of dollars.

We are not safer.

G.W. is far from an honorable man. He has only given NYC 10% of what he promissed to them in 2001.

And please answer me one simple question. This is something I have been having trouble with for a very long time... and most of the flak I see is from the right. When I express that I think the war in Iraq is wrong and our energies would be better spent elsewhere... how am I not supporting the troops? How is wanting them out of harms way not supporting them?

I am a patriot. I do support our armed services. I do have family values. I do want what I believe is right for America, myself, and my family. And I'm a liberal democrat. That is how I see things. I don't believe that I am superior to anyone because of those views.

You should be ashamed if you do.

Posted by: andy at October 31, 2004 1:13 AM

A remarkable collection of images.

Assembling images to tell any story is difficult. This is an especially tough story to tell.

Well done.

Posted by: SteveoBrien at October 31, 2004 1:14 AM

Thanks Mr. V d L.

Posted by: Major John at October 31, 2004 1:47 AM

wait, this looks like fifty reasons to vote against Bush.

Posted by: mkary at October 31, 2004 1:49 AM

Wow, no mention of 10,000+ Iraqi civilians slaughtered by American soldiers.

You people deserve Bush!

Posted by: Billy at October 31, 2004 2:00 AM

Hello, I am danny, ph.d. student at Southern Illinois
University, studying mass communication. I am
conducting an online survey about media use and
motivations during this year’s presidential election.
Please click on the below URL address and take a few
minutes for me. If not working, please copy the
address and put it to URL
I really appreciate your help. Thanks.
http://lawson-hall.lawson.siu.edu:8080/survey/entry.jsp?id=1098244717062

Posted by: danny at October 31, 2004 2:09 AM

From the soldiers here in Baghdad, working to make this country functional and free... thank you.

Posted by: Sam at October 31, 2004 2:22 AM

A powerful collection of images, but it is a betrayal of their subjects to use them as an endorsement of Bush. To someone who supported Bush in 2000 they serve as a painful reminder of the incompetent leadership that has made America less safe and more hated than ever before. Your work is a very emotional reminder of the important problems that face America and the world. Please do not subjugate the brave men and women by using them in propaganda.

Posted by: g at October 31, 2004 2:32 AM

I am in complete agreement. God Bless America! Freedom never was free and never will be; but it has always been worth the price.
Rod Stanton
Cerritos, Cal

Posted by: Rod Stanton at October 31, 2004 3:21 AM

That's 50,000 words with a clear message: we must not stop until our work is done; if anything, we must increase the force of hunting down the terrorists and completely diswading their recruitment drive.

We will have peace again, once the job is done. But only when the job is done!

God Bless America and you all.

-R

Posted by: RP at October 31, 2004 3:34 AM

Thank you for this.

Posted by: Curtis at October 31, 2004 3:44 AM

Powerful presentation. You have pinpointed what this election is about - the only thing this election is about. The one important task we have as Americans today is to lead the civilized world in eliminating the scum who would lead us to a place infinitely worse than the Dark Ages.

Posted by: W. Thompson at October 31, 2004 4:00 AM

Thanks for the reminder of what we're fighting for. Too often the "root cause" crowd blurs the truth of the evil that confronts us all. As a proud Canadian, I can only despair at the feckless, dithering response my government has put forth in these times. Never forget, when you see surveys that "prove" Canadians are "against" American interests, that there are many, many of us who realize that these butchers make no distinctions between us. My most fervent hope is that the American people, in their wisdom, choose the path of resolution that the President offers and re-elect him overwhelmingly. Thanks again, well done.

Posted by: Peter at October 31, 2004 4:04 AM

I weep as I thank you for your powerfully moving picture essay. So much better than words.
There is but one choice in this election. Thanks.

Posted by: judy van Beuren at October 31, 2004 4:23 AM

In order to preserve our way of life "We the People" speak, I support our troops, I support George Bush, Freedom isn't free Lets win this one and not leave the blood of our Warriors behind To animals who will stop at nothing to achive anarchy. This truely is a fight between good and evil! God bless America.

Posted by: Thomas Ricci at October 31, 2004 4:23 AM

Wow. Where are the flag-draped coffins? The pictures of 19-year-old servicemen with their legs blown off and their faces burned beyond recognition? Where are the pictures of the 100,000 dead Iraqis? Or the Darfurians?

Let freedom reign. Tell that to the Iraqis.

Posted by: Hugh at October 31, 2004 5:20 AM

great piece.I am sending this to all my friends and families hoping that they too will send this message to all of their friends to remind all of us that this war is real.Thank you---vote for the right man at the right time fighting the right war--GEORGE BUSH

Posted by: john oconnor at October 31, 2004 5:24 AM

Very, very effective. A Gulf War vet who trains these great soldiers at Fort Hood. I'll be passing this link around all over the place.

Well done!

Posted by: Peyton at October 31, 2004 5:30 AM

If you vote for Kerry, God help us. The land of
the free and the home of the brave will be no more. Will be just like the rest of those idiots.
Bush is who we should vote for.
Sandy Wade, Denver, Colorado.

Posted by: Sandy Wade at October 31, 2004 5:39 AM

Showing the decapitated head of a hostage is cruel and inflammatory. I followed a link from another blog here - what if this man's wife did the same? It fails to make your point.

Posted by: tgoodell at October 31, 2004 5:46 AM

Excellent!!!!! So true so powerful, George Bush

Posted by: diane o'conor at October 31, 2004 6:04 AM

Well done -- pass it on. I lived through 9/11 and its aftermath in NYC. On Sunday, I pray for peace AND the safe return of our brave troops. On Tuesday, I will vote for George W. Bush!

Posted by: Chris at October 31, 2004 6:20 AM

You did a great job of expressing how most Americans feel even though the media is trying to persuade us to feel otherwise. I hope more people see your reasoning and realize what we are fighting for. Perfect!!! Tyranny and evil around the world must be defeated.

Posted by: Mike Jones at October 31, 2004 6:23 AM

Thanx for telling it like it should be.

Posted by: Bob Evans at October 31, 2004 6:34 AM

Great essay, thank you Gerald.

Cast my vote to reelect our president on Friday. Even here in rural Georgia the wait was over 5 hours. I arrived at the Courthouse at 1pm and finally voted at 5:30pm.

They locked the Courthouse doors at 5pm, with many voters still inside. None quit the queue. Final votes cast at 10pm.

No Kerry bumper stickers in the parling lot.

Posted by: EddieP at October 31, 2004 6:36 AM

Very well articulated, with appropriate pictures for what you assert. I was touched, moved and inspired.

Thanks for your excellent effort.

Posted by: Carridine at October 31, 2004 6:43 AM

Al Jazeera has just played a tape of Osama bin Laden that refers to a recent event in Iraq. It was authenticated by “the government,” though I’m not sure what agency. The tape lists a litany of complaints about the Bush Administration and highlights the motivation behind September 11.

“The Bush Administration resembles a corrupt Arab government.”

“Bush is misleading Americans.”

“September 11 would have been less severe if George Bush had been more alert,” Bin Laden said.

“In addition, the infidel George Bush is outsourcing America’s future with tax cuts to the wealthy. Where are the 1.6 million jobs? The infidel Bush is the first infidel since the infidel Herbert Hoover to lose jobs! Awake from your slumber, America! The infidel John Kerry has a plan. You can do better, Insha’Allah!”

“Let me tell you, I spoke to the infidel Christopher Reeve a week ago, and if the infidel John Kerry is elected President, Insha’Allah, the infidel Christopher Reeve will walk again!”

“Are you infidels aware that the infidel John Kerry killed infidels in a war of imperialist infidel aggression in Southeast Asia?”

“The infidel Mary Cheney is a lesbian.”

“Let me tell you, I spoke to the infidel Teresa. By Allah, did you not know that Laura Bush never had a real job!


He stole Florida, too.


I'm John Kerry and I approved this message.

Posted by: cg at October 31, 2004 6:46 AM

This is wonderful. God bless you.

Posted by: midwest mama at October 31, 2004 6:55 AM

We forget so soon, your review is a sacred reminder of the horror and the leadership resolve to bring evil to accounts. Thank you for the effort in this post. Dave

Posted by: Dave Lindesmith at October 31, 2004 6:57 AM

Hey, where's my picture? I thought George Bush said about me, "He can run, but he can't hide." But I did. Now I don't even get my picture in the "Men like this are hunted to the end of the earth" section.

BTW: Nice touch with the decapitated guy. Classy.

Posted by: OBL at October 31, 2004 7:01 AM

Why can nobody tell the difference between Gerald and Gerard?

Posted by: Gerard M. Delaney at October 31, 2004 7:08 AM

Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel. -Samuel Johnson

Posted by: S.J. at October 31, 2004 7:33 AM

stupid

Posted by: John G at October 31, 2004 7:51 AM

I disagree with most of you. This is a proud european speaking, and I am really shocked about your attitude towards other countries. In Europe, we think we can help ouselves well. "Spain does not have the courage"? Maybe it doesn't have the power to go on war alone. But we like to choose ourselves what we do and what we don't. There are other countries on the world than yours, and these countries are as independent as you are. We don't need to be protected by Mother USA. Europe has been dealing with its problems independently for several thousand years now (excluding WW2 here). You haven't.

Have you seen the millions of people demonstrating against the Iraq war? Maybe not, it was only in Europe. But be sure, it was not because of "money from saddam" as writtten in the comments above. It was because we don't agree to your "war against terror" campaign.

It's okay if you react to 9/11. It's not okay to do a war of agression without the United Nation's placet. Keep in mind that you are just another nation. Mighty and powerful, you are. But be rational. We feel more and more that your policy is "American Imperialism". Prove us that this is wrong.

Posted by: Heiko at October 31, 2004 8:07 AM

The fifty reasons pictured were but a mere few reasons to re-elect GW. For those of you ignorant people who say these things happened on Bush's watch are beyond belief. The terrorists had eight years to prepare for the attacks and if Clinton and his administration had the courage and the brains to deal with the attacks that occured under Clinton's "watch", the attacks on 9/11 probably would not have occurred. It is not a matter of being liberal or conservative, it is a matter of being a lover of America, or a hater of America. I say for all of you who hate America, please leave, if you hate this country so much and take Kerry and Edwards with you. You have no idea what life will be like here in America with war in our streets. I bet you would quiclkly change your minds about Kerry when the Muslim extremists begin their take over of our country. Oh yeah, and the draft would most certainly be executed with Kerry in office because very few Americans would want to serve under a traitor. There are many, many more reasons to vote for Bush, especially if you are Jewish, black, gay, or anything but Muslim because the Democrats don't care about you or want you, they just need your vote. And that's the truth -- What have the Democrats ever done for you? They despise you -- they want to keep you dependent on them for their power, but they certainly don't like you. If you open your eyes and read the truth, stop watching the lies spouting from the mouths of the talking heads, you will see the truth. I pray that the majority of Americans, and the majority of the electors choose to re-elect George Bush for President. God Bless our country, our troops, and our president.

Posted by: T at October 31, 2004 8:14 AM

War is hell, and Iraq is a bit of a mess at the moment. Many innocents have died (a significant number at the hands of their own countrymen, I might add).

But in the post-9/11 age, having a rogue state with actual or potential WMD capacity was untenable. Terrorists are on the record as saying they want to kill as many Americans (and their allies) as possible. It's our solemn duty to deny them that capability and to deny them safe harbour anywhere on the planet.

Iraq was a problem that wasn't going to go away; it was going to fester and something would have had to have been done sooner or later (sooner was the safest bet). Remember, regime change had been a policy of both sides of US politics for years; 9/11 just made it more urgent.

It's sad that so many innocent Iraqis have died, but it won't have been in vain. The US is acting in defence of itself and the free world, of which Iraq will eventually be a part.

Posted by: Aussie John at October 31, 2004 8:18 AM

Very moving:

So many things people said were so true.

But how do we try and help people understand what someone wrote: FREEDOM ISN'T FREE.

With everything that has been said on this website, to me that phrase says it all.

Katherine M.

Posted by: Katherine M. Fesler at October 31, 2004 8:35 AM

Thank you, thank you -- if only the entire world would read this -- if only they would read!

Posted by: Esther Busenlehner on October 31, 2004 11:57 am

Posted by: Esther Busenlehner at October 31, 2004 8:57 AM

Thank you, thank you -- if only the entire world would read this -- if only they would read!

Posted by: Esther Busenlehner on October 31, 2004 11:57 am

Posted by: Esther Busenlehner at October 31, 2004 8:57 AM

Thanks for the reminders. Vote Tuesday. Vote Bush.

Posted by: Luis David Albright at October 31, 2004 9:00 AM

An outstanding visual reminder of what we are fighting for. We need to be reminded of the things these images represent before it is to late. Now get out and vote!

Posted by: Gunny C at October 31, 2004 9:12 AM

seriously?

see the problem with that photo essay is that is dosen't actually tell me why to vote for bush. showing me pictures of terrorist attacks that happened while bush was president does not make me want to vote for him.

The photos do not mention the fact that he has not followed up 911 with policies that will prevent future attacks nor properly bring to justice those that actually comitted the attacks in the first place. This is really a sad thing and a terribly legacy in American history.

President Bush should not be judged becuase he happened to be around at a time of great national tradegy. he should be judged by one criterion only: "has he put in place sensible policies to deal with the threat and does he understand the threat we face?" the answers to these questions are: no and no.

For gods sake bush supporters need to understand this before its too late. President bush is not making the world a safer place, nor is he making America more safe. vote sensibly on tuesday - DO NOT vote bush!

i urge everyone reading this blog to look up some non right wing logs. Look up the richard clarke terrorism recommendation policy report. think about what Bush is saying and if it will really - in the long term- make america safer?

please.

Posted by: Justin at October 31, 2004 9:32 AM

What a wonderful site! Brought tears to my eyes. I wish the world could read it. I agree with practically all of the comments posted...which were stated so much more eloquently than I ever could. Remember to vote on November 2nd. Vote BUSH. Pray for our military and may God always bless our beloved United States of America!

Ann Carroll - Hicksville, NY - October 31, 20204

Posted by: Ann M. Carroll at October 31, 2004 9:53 AM

What a wonderful site! Brought tears to my eyes. I wish the world could read it. I agree with practically all of the comments posted...which were stated so much more eloquently than I ever could. Remember to vote on November 2nd. Vote BUSH. Pray for our military and may God always bless our beloved United States of America!

Ann Carroll - Hicksville, NY - October 31, 20204

Posted by: Ann M. Carroll at October 31, 2004 9:53 AM

Justin: You have got to be joking. Do you really think that America is NOT safer? There have been many attempted terrorist attacks that have not been successful because of Bush. You just don't hear about them from your liberal sources. It would not further the liberal agenda to report on them. America IS safer! The pictures show what the terrorists have done, not what Bush has done or cuased to happen. There is a strong connection between Osama Bin Laden and Saddam, but many of you refuse to believe it. Wake up and read the truth. There were WMD, they were moved, probably into Syria by the indirect aid of the UN. My Goodness, what is going to have to happen for you to realize what life would be like fighting the terrorists and those who hate on American soil? By that time, it will be too late for you to realize your mistake. Those pictures will be a reality here in this country. Will it be your head on a platter, or your child strapped with a bomb? I certainly don't want it to be my head, or my child.

Posted by: T at October 31, 2004 10:19 AM

Thank you sir.....

A chilling story that the whole world should see and act upon in a positive way Posted October 31, 2004..Milo Ward

Posted by: Milo Ward at October 31, 2004 10:19 AM

Justin: The fact that Richard Clarke does not have any criticism of Clinton is very telling of his character. During the Clinton years Osama had a lot of time to build up his regime. Talk about ignoring terrorism attempts and ignoring the facts, and even hiding them from the American people, Bill Clinton was an expert. If you want to blame anyone, try Bill. Richard Clarke is just a hate monger, and he offers no plan to fight terrorism -- all he has to offer are hateful untruths about a man who has kept us safer than Bill, and will keep us much safer than Kerry would ever be able to. Are you also saying that you think things would have been better with Al Gore as president. I would say that 90+% of the population of the US would have disagreed with you in the days following the attacks. It's just that many people find it easier to forget than to face the truth.

Posted by: T at October 31, 2004 10:35 AM

Although John Kerry is also for the causes you mentioned, we should feel more comfortable with Bush around. He radiates much more genuine patriotism and less demagoguery.

Posted by: Eli Katz

Posted by: Eli Katz at October 31, 2004 10:39 AM

none of the reasons you described are specific to bush. this is just a test case of wrong judgement and non-intelligent propoganda.

I Don't know if you're brainwashed, but you seem to be.

putting all the blame or praise only on the president is a bad call. the security policy is also determined by Cheney, Rice, Rumsfeld. etc.

it depends on who will Kerry (if he wins) bring into those offices.

in conclusion, don't believe anything they tell you. Bush's America has not acted enough against terror, especially the palestinian terror.

Bin-laden and Zarkawy are still free, even though we changed the government in Afghanistan.
And I don't really have to mention the false intelligence on Iraq, do I?
Pictures are not enough to convince us, with no real logic behind it.

Posted by: Ernest Brown, NYC at October 31, 2004 10:40 AM

If I had pictures I would post too, the 100,000 dead iraqis, the deformed and sick Iraqis and americans from depleted uranium, blown up children, women, more innocents in this atrocity. If you really care about our troops, you would want them out of there NOW, out of harms way. Our brave ones are being maimed and killed needlessly, the best support you can give is to demand they be sent home!

How about our devestated economy, bush asking for more and more billions that sure isn't going to help our troops, sure isn't building the infastructure, and taking away from all the programs Americans really need. How about the environment that has and is being destroyed by Bush's administration.

How about all our rights and freedoms being secretly stolen away, even in the night, when no one is watching.

You aren't thinking at all, sorry , you are brainwashed indeed, we will just have more of our young people dead in Iraq and other countries as well as their people for only profit for Bush and his crew.

Our government has been hijacked, if you can't see this, I am sorry for you and for all of us.
I am not for Kerry, by the way, I don't think either one of the two candidates are decent human beings.

Wake up!!!

Posted by: Pru at October 31, 2004 11:12 AM

Hey Debbie- why is it always our fault that someone comes and tries to kill us. You liberals are all the same- you can never blame the criminals. You say our high crime rates are because of poverty and yet during the great depression crime rates were at nearly an all time low. My grandmother was in Germany during world war II and when they were starving- the last thing they were thinking about was "let's go kill someone"- they wanted FOOD. Bin Laden declared war against us YEARS before GWB was in office. He attacked us several times while YOUR president MR. Clinton was in office and he did nothing about it and they kept escalating until we had September 11. I hate to get crude but we finally have a president with the balls to do something about it while your president was too busy doing something completely different with his!

Posted by: Scott at October 31, 2004 11:13 AM

Hugh Hewitt,

I see the unspecific nature of Bush's pre-emptive strike policies are practiced by his supporters. Using photographs to justify a war is rediculous. I hope you didn't base your decision to vote for G.W. Bush looking at pictures. There's a book out called 'The 911 Comission Report'. There are no pictures but, just the same, it is informative and cites specific examples of how the WTC tragedy is in no way connected to the war in Iraq. Not mention newapapers. Don't missunderstand me: I, also, am moved by these photographs, however, action against terrorism will be much more effective if intellegent, not hasty, use of military and diplomatic resources are implemented.

Posted by: True Patriot at October 31, 2004 11:56 AM


In response to "Posted by: mark at October 26, 2004 01:25 PM ". CLINTON could have prevented the whole 9/11 by actually confronting the terrorist during his administration -then Bush wouldn't have had to worry about it. Bush shouldn't have had to try to hunt down Bin Laden- he was handed on a silver platter to Clinton 2-3 times- which Clinton repeatedly rejected. As far as the world marching in protest... are you aware that 300,000-400,000 college students marched on the White House to keep us out of WWII as well and look how many more millions of people died during our delay- and how much longer the war took to end. And to someone else's comment that 14,000 Iraqi's have died since Bush started this war- let's look at the numbers. At LEAST 1,000,000 people died during the less than 30 years that Hussein was the leader. That's well over 30,000 people a year on the average. In the year and a half that we've been engaged in the conflict only 15,000 have died- that's a 60-70% decrease in the number of deaths. I would say that that is a major improvement- wouldn't you??

Posted by: Scott at October 31, 2004 11:58 AM

Tears in my eyes. Thank you American forces for fighting for freedom and taking the blame once again.

Somewhere I read a comment from a 'proud European'. Europeans so easily forget. They think their own freedom came for free or that it will never be threatened again.

Not this European. I know there's no reasoning with psychopaths and I don't understand that so many of my fellow Europeans rather see the Middle East left to beheaders and islamists than give Afghans and Iraqí's a chance to lead prosperous and terror-by-Saddam-and-Taliban-free lives. In the process the 'root causes' for terrorism and islamism will be eradicated, since their future will be in their own hands and they will have no reason left to feel oppressed anymore. Which was proclaimed to be one of the causes of terrorism in the first place. What would these examples do to the surrounding countries? This comes at a very high price for Americans and the coalition forces and I'm moved to tears by it.

Look also at the last tape by Osama. He went from 'You messed with us, so we'll mess with you' to 'If you leave us alone, we'll leave you alone'. What does that say about him being a 'strong horse'? Would his (potential) followers perceive him as a great hero or just a whining fool? Would they be willing to follow a whining fool? What does that say about his recruitment abilities? I say the US must be doing something right.

Thirty years ago a significant minority with a big mouth caused the American forces for the first time in their existence to leave a battlefield without accomplishing anything of substance. Death and destruction followed. Please don't give an equally delusional minority with an equally big mouth to cause this to happen again when so much is at stake.

Posted by: Mairjke at October 31, 2004 12:02 PM

Beautiful...and powerful!
Thank you,
Janith

Posted by: Janith Davies at October 31, 2004 12:24 PM

GOD BLESS - yes God, whether you left-winged radical, ACLU lover Liberals like it or Not - AMERICA....

Posted by: alwayscowgirl at October 31, 2004 12:27 PM

Words are beyond me. My high school friend fights in Iraq behind a .50 gun. We are only 19. I fear for his future if Kerry wins.

Posted by: bdowdy at October 31, 2004 12:44 PM

If not us, then who?


SFC Francis, Ret,USA

Posted by: Larry Francis at October 31, 2004 12:47 PM

What do you say to a member of Paul Johnson's family who sees his decapitated head displayed on your website as an endorsement of Bush/Cheney?

Especially one who supports Kerry/Edwards?

What scares me more than Bush is the type of person who is so zealous and arrogant, so convinced of his own superiority, that he will cross lines that most decent people know better than to cross just to ram his opinions down other people's throats.

It would be easy as pie for a liberal to create a liberal version of your photo essay, and I'd be just as ashamed to share my wonderful country with that person as I am to share it with you.

This country gives you the right to post this exploitative trash. Have enough respect for America to take it down.

Posted by: skeptic at October 31, 2004 1:09 PM

I have had the good fortune (or God's Blessing) to have been born in the US, to have had a Catholic upbringing, and living most of my childhood and adult life in Washington, DC

I was not ecstatic about the building of the Holocaust Museum, but several years after it was built, I finally made a visit to it. When I left, I understood its primary purpose. NEVER FORGET!

And your primary purpose for "50 Reasons" is identical. NEVER FORGET!

Thank you.

Posted by: TerryF at October 31, 2004 1:15 PM

In my mind I constantley remember 9/11. But your pictures bring it all back more vividly. I have read most of the posts with pride, that these are my fellow americans. And then I read the few that mock the President. I am astounded by the hatred of these people. People who either don't remember the Viet Nam war or have never been in the service. My husband served in Viet nam. But just because you served doesn't mean you did it for your country. Kerry couldn't get a deferrment
so he joined the navy and took a camera. Hoping to capture and promote his own image so he could pursue his political ambitions. A man without an honorable discharge which is why he won't sign a 180 form. And I would trust the country in his hands? I think not.

Posted by: Shirley Templin at October 31, 2004 1:26 PM

In response to "Posted by: Heiko at October 31, 2004 08:07 AM ". It's pretty amazing that you're so proud that you can do things "on your own"- that you don't need mother USA to do things "on your own" and then you condemn us for doing things "on our own"! What a hypocrite!!! You Europeans are so proud that you've learned from history and yet it was because YOU ignored dictators and other evil despots in the past that World War I and world War II became WORLD WARS and millions and millions died. You ignore people like Hussein (at least 1 million deaths) just like you ignored Hitler (40 million deaths) and condemn and want to eliminate someone who is actually trying to stop it, President Bush (15,000 deaths- and most of these were accidental because the cowards hide behind civilians). While waiting for your precious UN to do something 800,000 died in the Tutsi slaughter. While still waiting for your precious UN to act.. thousands and thousands are dying every day around the world. I think you're just in denial about your guilty conscience and that you're too egocentric to help others who are defenseless and unable to help themselves. I'm not sure that it was George Lucas' point, but he showed a fantastic depiction of the UN in Star Wars Episode 1. DO SOMETHING FOR PETE'S SAKE- PEOPLE ARE DYING!!!- AND MOST OF IT COULD BE STOPPED IF PEOPLE LIKE YOU WOULD GET OUT OF YOUR ISOLATED AND PROTECTED BUBBLE!!!

Posted by: Scott at October 31, 2004 1:26 PM

u r sick stupid ameri8cans
nice propaganda
reminds me of gering's flics

Posted by: rational israeli at October 31, 2004 1:31 PM

Very moving and what a gift this post is to all...You really ought to think about linking it up to the "emblogment" blog that is running behind as far as endorsements for President Bush versus Senator Kerry...
the link for you and others is on my own blog or at :
http://pres2004.scripting.com/2004/10/29#a4
Thanks again for the tears of pride and faith on my cheeks

Posted by: Crystal at October 31, 2004 1:42 PM

God Bless you for reminding us of the core values for which we fight.

Posted by: Markolg at October 31, 2004 1:51 PM

You betcha! God Bless President Bush for having the courage to stand up and lead! America is Strong and "We the People" are not afraid!

Posted by: Gopher at October 31, 2004 2:11 PM

The people on the left must be pretty proud with OBL taking up on their talking points. Osama has picked up on their hysterial propaganda quite well. It must be heart-warming knowing that the monster that orchestrated the murder of 3000 men, women, and children shares their point of view. Really, they must have ulcers with all of the hatred and venom they have had coursing through their veins, not for the actual murderers, but for the President who stood on the ashes and promised to protect us. Now they can know--without a doubt--that they stand shoulder to shoulder with Osama bin Laden. With the new Osama tape, it just as well could have been another 527 ad for Kerry. How sad.

Terrorists have been in the business for many, many years. Islamofascism had been growing stronger and bolder with each attack. It made its way to our shores because the enemy realized we were a "paper tiger". Well, now we have become a tiger with teeth. If Kerry gets elected (heaven help us) he will declare that Iraq is a quagmire and pull the troops which will again tell the enemy, we are a paper tiger. I pray that Americans will go to the polls on Tuesday remembering that it was years of ineffective (and nonexistent) responses and cavalier attitudes about terrorism ~not to mention incessant hand-wringing about taking the fight to them~ that brought it home to us. If we go back to the "it's just a nuisance" way of thinking, we deserve what we have wrought.

Thank you for the powerful reminder. I am proud to say my ballot will be for President George W. Bush. May God bless America.

Posted by: Shelayne at October 31, 2004 2:20 PM

Thanks. It's always lovely when someone manages to put a complete twist on everything. Perhaps if your president wasn't such a vain bastard, and if America as a whole wasn't so convinced it's the world's rescuer when truly, it stirs up more trouble than it's ever been worth... 9/11 would never have happened at all.

Stop believing that just because something's American, it must be the best available. Improvements can always be made.

And no, I'm not saying 9/11 was justified. I was as shocked as you were. I'm saying perhaps, even though the terrorists are being unreasonable in their methods, it's worth a little introspective time to see if there's anything that could be improved.

Like having a member of the simian family for a president. Just a thought, pet. I'm sure it'll be deleted before too long.

Posted by: Noot Raddingston at October 31, 2004 2:24 PM

We need freedom and justice!!!!!

Posted by: Evgen veselov at October 31, 2004 2:29 PM

I am touched.
Truly,
Voletti

Posted by: voletti at October 31, 2004 2:32 PM

I just want to thank the author of this post for reminding us of why we are here. God bless the USA and the Bush administration. And God Condemn the Kerry Campaign, the Leftist Cowards of Europe, and the Islamofacist bastards who bring terror to the world.

Posted by: Scary Kerry at October 31, 2004 2:33 PM

Knowing for sure President Bush is a Christian and is conscious and very caring of the sufferings of not only our soldiers and their families but of what happens to this world of ours, makes me proud to vote for him in this election. I feel God has put him here and is guiding him for the good of us all.

Posted by: Janet Peters at October 31, 2004 2:44 PM

The U.S. has given more opportunity and freedom to more people than any other nation. All of it is due to those who died for us. God bless their memories and our country.

Posted by: Dr. Leonard Tulman at October 31, 2004 2:50 PM

godbless america and its patriots and by all means keep kerry out of office i dont think america needs him right now we need a strong leader and that right now is what we have in office so straight up VOTE FOR W!!

Posted by: Lynn at October 31, 2004 3:01 PM

Thank You.
God bless you American's.

Posted by: gubbaboy at October 31, 2004 3:08 PM

dude, you are so fucking stupid. THAT PICTURE OF BLACK SUNDAY IS FROM A MOVIE.


STOP WATCHING SO MUCH FOX NEWS AND GET A BRAIN!


ps: There is a newly developed concept called thinking for yourself, anyone can do it i promise.......GIVE IT A SHOT!!!

Posted by: Jeremy at October 31, 2004 3:16 PM

Hey, I've been able to both run and hide!

Posted by: Osama bin Laden at October 31, 2004 3:25 PM

I do miss Donald Rumsfeld and my special moments together . . . :-(

Posted by: Saddam Hussein at October 31, 2004 3:36 PM

Wow! And amen! I couldnot have said it better than you did with pictures. Thanks
Marcia in Normal, Ill.

Posted by: Marcia Karraker at October 31, 2004 3:38 PM

The posts here that support Kerry in one way or the other are truly imbecilic. Kerry is such an utter phony I really don't see how anybody with even a modicum of intelligence could support him, even supposing you don't like Bush. (Like Kerry in his duck hunting outfit asking the guy at the sporting goods store, "Can I get me a hunting license here?") Come on. Admit it. You would be embarrassed to be seen with this guy anyplace but a sushi restaurant. I definitely would not like someone like JK covering my back. VOTE BUSH and don't let the phony effete elite try to run things (into the ground).
bertignac

Posted by: bertignac at October 31, 2004 3:45 PM

We need a new president who can actually catch the bad guys responsible for 9/11. Bush sent our boys off to shoot the wrong people. Bush lied when he told us they knew there were WMDs in Iraq. He may be steadfast but he's also dead wrong.

Bush lied. Who died? 100,000 Iraqi civilians and 1100 American soldiers. WWJD? I tremble because God is just and the lives of the Iraqi civilians is on our hands. Which do you think our Lord values more, the 100,000 Iraqis or the 1100 American troops?

May God bless America and protect us under President Kerry.

Posted by: jdog at October 31, 2004 3:48 PM

KERRY IS JUST SO GAY (and I don't mean homosexual, I am not homophobic).

Posted by: nobodysfool at October 31, 2004 3:48 PM

I was very upset when you said at the White House Press Conference when asked about me that "I truly am not that concerned about him.

I thought you said you'd get me "dead or alive?"

Posted by: Osama Yo Mama at October 31, 2004 3:49 PM

You forgot, "because I'm a liar, and me and my friends are makin' a ton of money on this"

Posted by: BushSnort at October 31, 2004 3:54 PM

This is stupid. Here's a reason not to vote for Bush: Osama is still alive and well.

Way to go Bush. I trust you'll win the war against terror just like you won the war against Osama.

Posted by: datdamonfoo at October 31, 2004 4:09 PM

Bush, it's kinda dry out here want to swing by and Smoke me out?

Posted by: Osama Bin Smokin at October 31, 2004 4:09 PM

All of these are just platitudes there is not one actual steatement or reason posted here

Posted by: aaron at October 31, 2004 4:18 PM

This argument boils down to 'I want Bush to win because Kerry will sell out our nation and let the terrorists win.'

That's just so wrongheaded on so many levels. Do you believe that half the nation doesn't want us to defend ourselves and stop terrorism around the globe? I'm voting for Kerry because I think he'll do a better job--not because I think a Bush victory would destroy our nation.

Please, consider more than just your gut feelings. Our military is extended as far as it possibly can be, yet we need more troops in Iraq and also need to be able to respond to other crises around the globe. We need allies to do this, like India, China, and Russia. Europe can also come along if it wants. Now, who would be the better negotiator? Who would get the troops we need and rally the world to our cause? Kerry or Bush? The 'French-speaking mulilateralist' or the 'resolute, go-it-alone warrior?'

Frankly, it would be Kerry. No matter how much you hate him, he's the kind of leader we need for the next 4 years. Bush was fine for the last 4, but he just won't cut it in the future. He's not a deal maker.

Posted by: Bolo at October 31, 2004 4:19 PM

If Kerry is elected we will not be able to say "God" The liberals will make sure of that. You liberals/Democrats are so ignorant. Do you not see that your rights/freedoms are being taken away from you? You may not be Christian, you may not care about religion, but I do. WWJD? He would say that we should not allow terrorists to take our freedon away. I think you liberals who are posting on this site need to learn American history and I mean real history, not the Democratic re-written version that has been "taught" in the liberal public schools. Osama bin Laden telling us to vote for Kerry should be a huge wake up call to you people. Do you really think they he has America's best interest at heart? Please wake up!

Posted by: T at October 31, 2004 4:21 PM

If we all put our Freedom Loving American heads and hearts together I'm sure we all could come up with another 87 billion reasons to vote for George Bush as our Commander-in-Chief.

Posted by: Richard Shell at October 31, 2004 4:26 PM

RIGHT WING MORONS

Posted by: tommy at October 31, 2004 4:28 PM

You have the issues confused. The Democrats aren't going to take away Branch Davidianism or whatever your cult happens to be. You'll be fine!

Posted by: aaron at October 31, 2004 4:28 PM

I believe we face enemies that must be defeated abroad. You have simplified your life by lumping your fellow Americans in with them. When you can separate your unrequited love for Bush from your love for this country, maybe then we can talk, T.

Warfighter for Kerry

Posted by: Bart at October 31, 2004 4:29 PM

"If Kerry is elected we will not be able to say "God" The liberals will make sure of that."

HAHAHAHAHAHA!!! I see you got the GOP mailing in Arkansas. Hear that knock at your door? It's the Liberal Police. They're going to cuff you up and force you into a gay marriage. You better get online and register at Macy's right quick.

It must be so much easier to parrot talking points.

Posted by: skeptic at October 31, 2004 4:30 PM

I'm sorry, I thought the headline said "50 GOOD reasons to vote for Bush"

Posted by: bart at October 31, 2004 4:37 PM

Gee, I think that needed a few more 9/11 pictures.

Isn't it ironic how Bush would be a Jimmy Carter lame duck if all those people hadn't died?

Posted by: scarshapedstar at October 31, 2004 4:41 PM

Wow. Did someone really just use the 'depleted uranium" canard several posts above. I see crack like that and a lot of name calling come from the abb crowd.

And this: "In Europe, we think we can help ouselves well." Yes, you do think so, don't you. Look at the past 100 yrs.

Ughh.

Posted by: centaur at October 31, 2004 4:51 PM

I lost friends & Family at Ground Zero. I worked there on and off for over a year. We would still be waiting to decide what to do if Clinton,Gore or Kerry were CIC. God Bless You And thank you you are a Great American!
Griff
White Plains,NY

Posted by: John Griffin at October 31, 2004 4:53 PM

Powerful photos all. Please remember the more than 1,000 American military men and women who have died including those who didn't have the proper equipment and armor to defend themselves because this DoD failed to plan properly for an extended insurgency. This happened on GWB's watch, remember that as well.

Posted by: Van K. Flanagan at October 31, 2004 4:59 PM

Thank you for the moving photos. I was in church this morning to thank those Americans who selflessly defend us and others around the world. Thank you for giving all an opportunity to post and for some, to meditate on their thoughts on what it takes to keep the world free.

Posted by: llbillman at October 31, 2004 5:09 PM

What a great site and a great tribute to our spirit and the courage of our fighting forces.
God Bless them all...God Bless America & God Bless President Bush!

Joe
North Brunswick, NJ

Posted by: Joe Antonello at October 31, 2004 5:10 PM

I respect your thoughts and feelings. As a person who witnessed 9/11 firsthand, I feel strongly that we must prevent another event such as this from ever occurring again. It was the most frightening day of my life.

For that reason, I was very supportive of this president and, like all people, quickly rallied around him. I was also supportive of our mission in Afghanistan. I still do not understand Iraq. I don't see the connection and frankly, do not see why we went into the only secular country in the region. We were attacked by religious zealots, not plain vanilla zealots.

I have no problem going in to dismantle regimes that are harboring and supporting terrorists. I think that's where our attention needs to be. I see Iraq as a pet war and am troubled by the fact that our heroic troops are over there, when we should be locking down Afghanistan and looking at the other ultra-fundamentalist countries.

I also don't understand this "fly-paper" idea. It doesn't seem to make sense to me. Obviously, we need to attack regimes that harbor terrorists, but to think that terrorists are not going to be able to act over here just because we have our bravest men and women over there? How many people did it take to pull off 9-11? Are you telling me that if we were fighting a war in Iraq at that time that 9-11 would not have happened? Also, don't you think we should strengthen our ability to deal with the terrorists over here?

In short, Bush lost me after Afghanistan. That was a mission that made sense. The rest has been nonsense and was akin to smacking the side of a hornet's nest with a large stick. How could he have made such a smart move initially and then ruined it with such a ridiculous mission?

Posted by: cause for pause at October 31, 2004 5:15 PM

The last picture says it all... America at it's redneckest

Posted by: u_redneck_morons at October 31, 2004 5:23 PM

50 real reasons to vote for Bush---

1) He wants to keep us whipped up in a state of fear and anger (see, I condensed your 50 down to 1).
2) He louses up policy so badly that we really ought to be in a state of fear and anger.


...OK, I'm tapped.

Posted by: Social Scientist at October 31, 2004 5:30 PM

Heh. Don't know much about bikers, do you, u_redneck_morons?

Or Americans in general.

Posted by: Kathy K at October 31, 2004 5:31 PM

I have seen another site like this one. Here it is.

Posted by: Ben at October 31, 2004 5:34 PM

The question, Social Scientist, isn't "How bad is Bush?" The question is, "Would Kerry be better?"

Personally, I'm NOT in favor of surrendering.

Posted by: Kathy K at October 31, 2004 5:35 PM

Very moving pictorial display . . . says quite a bit for only 50 pictures . . . we need Bush . . . someone who stands his ground . . . Kerry has proven over and over again he does not have the moral fortitude to even be honest with himself . . . how can he be with his constituents?

(Retired Vietnam Vet)

Posted by: Don L. at October 31, 2004 5:55 PM

Kerry Will Win Big
Here's something you seldom see in the SCLM: I will highlight to all what was probably the most boneheaded analysis I've ever made on Daily Kos.  Jeeze, saying the Iowa Caucuses would have little or no effect on the results of the New Hampshire primary has to be one of the dumbest things I've ever written.   Why do I highlight an obscure comment buried within a long-forgotten thread posted ten months ago?  Because I want to remember that case of forced humility as I go out on a bit of a limb and make a prediction:  Kerry is going to win big. It's still possible that Bush could pull it off, and it's even more possible that Bush could again win the Presidency through litigation.  But the odds are getting more lopsided in favor of at least a solid Kerry win, with improving odds of a Kerry landslide. I've been open to the possibility of a Kerry landslide since April.  Nothing since then has dissuaded me of that possibility.  The race, as far as we can tell, has the appearance of being close, but with indications of great early voting numbers coming out of places like Iowa and inspiring stories about people determined to have their votes counted in Florida, the early, admittedly highly anecdotal evidence points to good things.  Add the news from Ohio, the tightening polls in places like Arkansas and Nevada, the fact that Kerry is polling better than Gore did on the verge of the election, and that the Dems stand to gain much more from the intensified GOTV efforts, relatively, than should the Republicans, and there is much to suggest that Kerry should do extremely well on Tuesday. So, I decided to do something I almost never do: make a prediction.  Kerry will win big--big as in over 5% (which is big in terms of the last several Presidential races), and big as in 311 or more electoral votes.   This isn't over, and as I clearly stated in April, my confidence in our chances is by no means an excuse for anybody to let up for even 5 seconds.  Follow through on the GOTV work, continue to talk to your friends and neighbors, and do whatever we need to do to elect Dems up and down the ballot.  But do it with confidence, because we're on the verge of a momentous and deeply satisfying victory.
Daily Kos | October 31, 2004, 8:00 pm

Voter fraud and disenfranchisement
Here's a sampling of what we face nationwide. In West Virginia -- it was bad enough the first time.In a letter, Berkeley County clerk John Smalls cites calls from a cell phone were made to Eastern Panhandle democrats telling them that they were not registered to vote. The letter also said the calls informed democrats in some cases they wouldn`t be able to vote on Election Day [...] It`s considered an improper act because when upset citizens called the voter registration office to make sure they were registered to vote, indeed they were. So, who made these misleading calls? The Berkeley County Clerk`s Office traced the number voters gave as the source back to the Eastern Panhandle Republican Headquarters. Bad enough the first time, as I said. Problem is, despite their "slap on the wrist" (or because of it), local Republicans are still up to the same dirty tricks. From an email statement today:Democratic leaders in one of the nation's most hotly-contested battleground states are  receiving reports of voter suppression activities that can be traced back to the Republican Party. The suppression activities have continued despite warnings from officials in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties.Hopefully these WV Republicans face the same fate as those in Ohio who tried to challenge 35,000 new voters for no reason other than disenfranchisement. After hundreds of hearings found zero illegal registrations, the entire lot of challenges was thrown out and the Republican masterminds now face criminal charges. Speaking of Ohio, I got this from a Toledo volunteer:I worked all day yesterday at the largest Toledo area Kerry GOTV phone bank at Gallon and Takacs law offices, 3516 Granite, Sylvania. Out of the 8 phone banks that we had here in the Toledo area yesterday, ours produced one third of all of the contacts made. Both the local phone company and our phone systems provider have confirmed to us that phone relay point into the building was purposely severed. Many volunteers were rerouted to other locations and several also had to rely on cell phones when we found our lines down this morning. We thought it was a coincidence until the phone company verified to us that the lines were intentionally cut. More Republican dirty tactics.And more Ohio, check out this letter supposedly sent from the Lake County (Painesville) Board of Election to newly registered Democrats: Of course, the letter is not from the Board of Election, and it's obviously all bullshit. (From Law Geek.) In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the GOP wants to take a page from the Ohio playbook.Citing a new list of more than 37,000 questionable addresses, the state Republican Party demanded Saturday that Milwaukee city officials require identification from all of those voters Tuesday. If the city doesn't, the party says it is prepared to have volunteers challenge each individual - including thousands who might be missing an apartment number on their registration - at the polls.In Ohio, the "questionable addresses" were those were GOP-sent registered mail wasn't accepted. Wherever the WI GOP's list comes from, it's definitely not reality.City Attorney Grant Langley labeled the GOP request "outrageous." "We have already uncovered hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of addresses on their (original list) that do exist," said Langley, who holds a non-partisan office. "Why should I take their word for the fact this new list is good? I'm out of the politics on this, but this is purely political."Still in Wisconsin, let's head to the ultra-liberal University of Wisconsin -- Madison, which should be a huge source of Kerry votes on Tuesday.UW-Madison students in six residence halls received misleading information this week about how to vote, triggering allegations of dirty tricks. The Dave Magnum for Congress campaign and the College Republicans took responsibility and apologized for the mailing Friday evening, insisting it was an honest error. But a progressive group called it a deliberate attempt to confuse student voters. And University of Wisconsin-Madison Chancellor John Wiley, saying he was concerned that students might not know where to vote, had e-mails sent to all students Friday afternoon containing correct information.The Campus Republican flyer told students they could vote at the polling location of their choice. Obviously, voters must vote in their assigned polling location. The College Republicans, of course, are mired in a scandal of their own -- bilking innocent seniors of more than $6 million. The College Republican National Committee has raised $6.3 million this year through an aggressive and misleading fund-raising campaign that collected money from senior citizens who thought they were giving to the election efforts of President Bush and other top Republicans. Many of the top donors were in their 80s and 90s. The donors wrote checks -- sometimes hundreds and, in at least one case, totaling more than $100,000 -- to groups with official sounding-names such as "Republican Headquarters 2004," "Republican Elections Committee" and the "National Republican Campaign Fund." [...] Some of the elderly donors, meanwhile, wound up bouncing checks and emptying their bank accounts. "I don't have any more money," said Cecilia Barbier, a 90-year-old retired church council worker in New York City. "I'm stopping giving to everybody. That was all my savings that they got." Barbier said she "wised up." But not before she made more than 300 donations totaling nearly $100,000 this year, the group's fund-raising records show.Makes you glad to be a Democrat, huh? We all knew College Republicans were slime. Now we have hard evidence. I hope to see some of those scum carted off to jail. But I digress, since cheating the elderly of their life savings isn't really voter fraud or supression. Let's wrap up in Alabama, where Democratic areas have been infested with this flyer:

Posted by: tah daa at October 31, 2004 5:58 PM

Well, I guess tah daa is done...now, Kathy

The question, Social Scientist, isn't "How bad is Bush?" The question is, "Would Kerry be better?"
Well, one candidate is demonstrably brave, decisive in action, thoughtful, and has led a remarkably scandal-free public life. Bush is the opposite.

Personally, I'm NOT in favor of surrendering.
Good for you. Write us from Fallujah.

Posted by: Social Scientist at October 31, 2004 6:22 PM

Who the f**k are you to speak for the Spanish people and their dead? The Spanish government is actively pursuing the people who struck them with such ferocity. That they are not supporting the misguided adventure in Iraq has nothing to do with their resolve to fight terrorism. That you and your ilk continually conflate the war on terror with the war in Iraq is either a cynical, and hence despicable ploy, or else evidence of a profound ignorance of the very real problems that confront us all. In either case, you should be ashamed of yourselves.

Posted by: Scott Couse at October 31, 2004 6:41 PM

If Kerry should happen to win, and I really don't think there's a "snowballs chance in hell", they probably will need to start up a draft. Who in the Military today is gonna wanna fight for that Coward and Traitor. Yall good people move on down here to Texas. We got plenty of room for ya and we'll just exercise our right that we kept to leave them Northern States, Vote the Dubya in for our President. Hell, we done got most of the oil refineries, most of the defense contractors, about 300 years worth of oil, and plenty to eat. Plus we got plenty of food and control the space industry. Like I said though, it's a snow balls chance in hell that Kerry will win.

Posted by: Gopher at October 31, 2004 6:52 PM

Mrs. Cheney: "This is not a good man".

Mr. John F. Kerry,

1: Firstly, if you thought the Vietnam War was wrong, you should have never volunteered to fight it. You fooled yourself. You were a liar.

2: Secondly, while in Vietnam if you were a freedom fighter and you killed Communist Vietnamese (or Vietcong, in the Vietnamese language) you were a hero. On the other hand, if you still thought that war was wrong, you should have never fought it valiantly, killed Vietcong and earned medals. You were a hypocrite. You were not a soldier. You were a murderer.

3: Thirdly, you came back from the Vietnam War, if you were still proud of your short military record, you should have never gone to the street to protest it. You were a traitor. You were un-reliable.

4: Do you dare to fight terrorism?
Would you rather wait some day that terrorist would kill you on this land?
You voted to send troops to war. Then you voted to cut short of their supplies.
You made their jobs harder. You were indecisive. You were not trustworthy.

5: Now, you run for the presidency so you proudly claim your military record in Vietnam as patriotic, which you had already smeared it in 1970’s.
Did you condemn it on your own?
Did Hanoi put words in your mouth to curse yourself?
Respect yourself and others will respect you.
Man is the only animal that blushes.
What kind of animal are you really?

6: Finally, why would people believe you?
You are a fool.
You are a liar.
You are a hypocrite.
You are a traitor.
You are indecisive.
You are unreliable.

Posted by: Van at October 31, 2004 7:08 PM

Fear, Bitches!!!

Posted by: Roger at October 31, 2004 7:09 PM

I too used to be a liberal. Voted for Carter, for which I am now ashamed. Gave money to Greenpeace and other liberal causes, for which I am embarrassed. Started to get dissaffected with the Dems in the late 80's. Voted for Perot in the 90's, for which I have no explaination. Then, I watched the Pentagon burn out of my office window on 09/11. Kerry says 09/11 didn't change him. Well, it changed me totally, completely, and irrevocably. I took advantage of early voting and cast a vote for the first Republican presidential candidate of my life: George W. Bush. There is not doubt in my mind I won't regret this vote in coming years. No doubt kerry didn't change after 09/11: He's still the same condescending elitist, arch opportunist, and bald-faced liar he's always been. I read this entire thread, and thank GOD I'm not a liberal anymore: What a bunch of stinking thinking garbage they have become.

Posted by: Bloghorn Bleghorn at October 31, 2004 7:10 PM

Thanks, SF Vietnam Vet, now stationed in Kabul, Afghanistan

Jack Tobin
COL SF

Posted by: Jack Tobin at October 31, 2004 7:23 PM

Glad you're clear Bloghorn. The guy who took a month-long vacation when warned "Bin-Laden Determined to Strike in U.S." then sat like a dazed puppy for 7 minutes when told "The United States is under attack" is your hero. The guy who let 9/11 happen and let his Saudi buddy bin-Laden get away is your hero. Vote for your hero and be proud.

Posted by: Social Scientist at October 31, 2004 7:32 PM

EXCELLANT! THANKS.
If you enjoyed this check out this new mini video- free for viewing. Bush-stand by me @ www.therightviewpoint.com

Posted by: shelley99 at October 31, 2004 7:34 PM

Just my thoughts here -

There are things I'm unhappy about with "W", one being the Patriot Act - I don't like anything that messes with the Constitution, for ANY reason. The events of 9/11 had little to do with being able to deny rights of due process, the right to privacy, and the right to free speech, all of which are abridged by the Act.

I'm not at all pleased with the opening of our borders and allowing an invasion of illegal persons who are taking good-paying jobs from my friends and family.

It offends me that American jobs are being off-shored to India, Pakistan, and China, among other countries.


But, in losing one brother, one uncle, two cousins, and more than 12 good friends and acquaintances in Viet Nam, I'll be damned if I will desecrate their honor and memory by voting for anyone who:

1) Testified that they were murderous barbarians
2) "Earned" 5 medals in 4 months of tour duty
3) Supposedly threw those medals at the White House in protest
4) Effectively gave support to the enemy by his actions at home.

I also cannot see changing Commander in Chief during the middle of a war - sends the wrong message to the wrong kind of the people.

Is some of the Iraqi conflict about oil? May well be. Is some of it about money? Wouldn't be a shock if it was. But there is a great deal of it that IS about national security and the continuance of our economy, and the fact that there really are bad people in the world that want to see us dead.

In the end, you must all vote your conscience, and so must I. May be make the right choice, because there is no perfect one.

Posted by: David at October 31, 2004 7:41 PM

Excellent website. Show your soldiers how you feel. Help capture their spirit

http://www.writtenbyus.com

Posted by: Shawn at October 31, 2004 7:49 PM

Thanks great photo album. Couple of point on the comments.

As I was reading all of the comments it struck me that the only people calling names were the liberals. I was always taught that the man who can not continue his argument rationally start calling names.

You liberals love to call GW a moron and an idiot but according to his military entrance exam scores his IQ is min 129. Your boy Johns military entrance exams showed his IQ to be around 120, hmmmm. GW did not sit at reading that book because he didnt know what to do. He knew that the best people were on the job, and nothing he could do would change anything. He did what he should have done, showed confidence in the government and his people, not as Mr. Moore and liberal thought he should have done. I can see it now, Bush jumps up runs out and get on the phone with a look of concern. Liberal all over going did you see that he couldn't control himself he was sooo scared, he should have shown resolve. You can please liberals unless they are in power then all the do is get blow jobs. Clinton, Kennedys, bunch of rich elitists who think everyone else is too stupid, but all they can think with is between thier legs.

In every war we have been in there have been casualties, and people protesting that fact that we were in it, but in only one have we listened to the minority and look at the millions that died in the killing fields of cambodia and laos because of it. Yes John, those people died because of your beliefs that communism is better than democracy.

The only way to stop a bully, and that is what the terrorists are, is to bloody their nose. I dont care what country we have to invade but those low lifes need to know that you dont mess with us and the rest of the world can to pound salt. We saved Europes butts twice from something they started and how do they repay us, they take bribes from the same people that tell us to our faces they hate. You want a hypocrite go to france and meet Mr. Chirac, or may to Russia and meet Mr. Putin. Both voted for sanctions against Iraq then, too bribes from Hussien to sell him weapons. From the reports I have been reading the russians personally move the WMD's to Syria.

Posted by: jimmyc at October 31, 2004 8:37 PM

Well done.

All the trash by the anti-Bush crowd just shows that they drink the kool-aid.

Search out the missing 12 minutes of the latest Osama tape and it's clear that we are winning.

Four more years...

Posted by: Charlie at October 31, 2004 8:43 PM

Right on! You did the right thing. Voted your choice without letting it be influenced by the mudslingers on both sides. My vote will be for the same man for the same reasons.

cr

Posted by: chuck at October 31, 2004 8:57 PM

Wonderful.
You've pretty much covered the waterfront.
God grant that Bush be re-elected Tuesday.
If he isn't... we'll all be praying "God save America.

Posted by: Flyer at October 31, 2004 9:04 PM

GW did not sit at reading that book because he didnt know what to do.
No, he sat there because he wanted to know how the story ended.

He knew that the best people were on the job, and nothing he could do would change anything.
You are a treat! Of course, there were still 2 planes in the air and those "best people" couldn't think to scramble fighters. Oh my heroes!

I dont care what country we have to invade
Apparently, neither does Bush. Any war is a good one!

Posted by: Social Scientist at October 31, 2004 9:07 PM

You make an eloquent case against terrorism, but then, thats not a hard case to make. You make an eloquent case for supporting the troops, and again, thats not a hard case to make. What you dont do is make any case for _or_ against Bush, except that you're going to cast your vote for him.

With or without Bush, Bin Laden will still be hunted, terrorism with still be guarded against, soldiers will still be supported and respected, and the safety that soldiers can buy will still exist. But soldiers can only buy you so much security, and war rarely delivers more than grief and chaos that reverberates through multiple generations after it has passed.

I live here as a guest, and I cant vote in this election, but if I could, I would choose someone who has experienced war first hand, and especially someone who was revolted by it. I would choose someone who relies on reason and observation to adapt to changing circumstances. I would choose someone who is a member of the reality-based community.

Again, I am a guest here, and I cant vote, but I do live in Manhattan, and the simple calculus of "what makes me safer" is one I live with daily. I dont believe that removing Saddam has made me safer, and in fact, I believe it has made me less safe today and much less safe in the long run.

The Lancet recently published a study, the conclusion of which was "Making conservative assumptions, we think that about 100,000 excess deaths, or more have happened since the 2003 invasion of Iraq". I wonder what fraction of those people had friends or relatives who are now motivated to take up arms against the US or to sacrifice themselves in suicide bombings. I wonder if any of them will make it to New York.

Posted by: australian living in manhattan at October 31, 2004 9:11 PM

GEORGE BUSH KILLS AMERICANS

George Bush has killed more Americans than Al Qaeda, the Taleban and any Iraqi. He loves to kill Americans. George Bush caused the deaths at the Twin Towers, as did his father. He has killed more Americans in Iraq and Afghanistan. He has killed more in America.

Are you American? George is planning kill you and your family.

GEORGE BUSH KILLS AMERICANS

Posted by: A Real American at October 31, 2004 9:37 PM

Beautiful and moving tribute. Thank you.

And I have noticed of all the pro-Kerry trolls who have decided to litter this thread, not one of them can say what Kerry would do, because he himself has never said. Kerry is the ultimate reactionary, who won't take a step without the approval of the UN.

Kerry has proven he has no moral center. Just as the trolls who support him have proven their moral bankruptcy by not even acknowleging the reality that we are at war and 9/11 was not the first attack on Americans.

For the first time in their whole history, Afghans voted. Women who were threatened by death if they voted got up early to ritually bathe and dress for one who is about to die, then stood in line for hours to vote.

Each and every one of the pro-Kerryistas spit on these women, just as Osama did in the unbroadcast part of his tape, just as Edwards did when he said such a vote was not an achievement of the Bush administration.

They look at those pictures of 9/11, of Beslan, of Madrid, of Berg ..and they don't recognize the depravity of the ideology of the perpetrators ...no they beat their breast about the "root cause" that is ... gasp ... America.

One here even claims leaving Saddam in power would have been a good thing, regardless of how many people he and his sons slaughtered, because it was over there and won't really affect "me me me."

The Kerryistas claim to champion democracy even as they physically attack, vandalize and even shoot into the HQ's of their political opponents. Even as they signal their willingness to use as currency the one democracy in the ME that has been America's long time ally.

Dennis Prager writes:

In a nutshell, John Kerry's primary foreign policy goal is to get America into the good graces of the European Union (specifically France and Germany) and the United Nations. He regards America going it alone in the world as an American calamity.

On the other hand, George W. Bush believes that becoming popular in the EU and in the United Nations would morally compromise America's values and ultimately endanger America.
Only an American president who does not place great importance on American popularity and who has a realistic view of the immorality inherent in international institutions such as the world court and the United Nations will stand behind Israel. Nearly all the world's governments are prepared to abandon Israel because of their dependence on Arab oil or their fears of their Muslim population and the threat of Islamic terror.
George W. Bush marches to the beat of the drummer who asks, "What is right?" and not to the beat of the many drummers who ask, "What is popular?"

What most is being demonstrated by the abject hatred of the Kerryistas on this thread, and by the action of their brethren in the streets, is the moral level of the Left, of the Michael al-Moore faction of the Democratic party, of memo forging CBS, is one of utter depravity.

Posted by: Darleen at October 31, 2004 9:59 PM

Please read your most recent posts. They made me physically ill. Scum like that should be deleted just for that reason.

God bless you and your wonderful post. The REAL Americans love you.

Posted by: Lisa Herrera at October 31, 2004 10:03 PM

Please read your most recent posts. They made me physically ill. Scum like that should be deleted just for that reason.

God bless you and your wonderful post. The REAL Americans love you.

Posted by: Lisa Herrera at October 31, 2004 10:03 PM

Morals, Morals, Morals, why does this consume the minds of so many bush supporters. Is it moral to ignore that since the end of the war over 100,000 women, children, innocent civilians and Iraqi soldiers have died? And why, Oh..Well were safer now, and there free people now right? Hmmm...sure. "Mission Accomplished", Mr.President. I wont feel safer not for a second until we have a president that isnt viewed as an ignorant man,unable to run this country(what he is) by people all over the world. I just hope more people can see this so we can give Kerry the chance to take us out of the deep pit Bush and his administration dug us into!

Posted by: Caroline at October 31, 2004 10:05 PM

Caroline

Was it really your intention to post to the world you are an amoral person?

Well, let's start with a very easy question, one in which a simple yes or no is sufficient:

Do you see a moral difference between Auschwitz and Hiroshima?

Posted by: Darleen at October 31, 2004 10:12 PM

LISA HERRERA IS A COMMUNIST

Lisa Herrera is a communist who believes in censorship. Like George Bush, Lisa believes that freedom of speech means only Lisa and George can express their views. Everyone else must be silenced. Killed even - she says they should be "deleted". It makes me wonder if Lisa Herrera also supports George Bush killing Americans in Iraq.

Lisa supports dictators like George Bush.

LISA HERRERA IS A COMMUNIST

Posted by: A Real American at October 31, 2004 10:25 PM

Glancing through the tribute pictoral, I thought about the common theme that runs throughout. And I came to the sudden realization (a moment of clarity, you could call it) that the single concept is FEAR. All of these things could threaten the viewer's life, so we must destroy this elusive terrorist enemy, which isn't an army
or a united entity of US haters, but a concept that we're still trying to define.

We need to put our ego and arrogance behind us and ask the tough questions: why were we attacked on 9/11? What policies over the last few decades have created such disdain for the US Govt's actions across the middle east and other parts of the world? And why are Americans so insulated from the realities of our often destructive and uncompassionate actions around the world?

Right now, these questions are considered unpatriotic and downright evil/sinful by many of us. But, when this civil war of an election is over, I hope that we can openly discuss these questions and come to the realization that we must be stewards to the world by our postive outreach, charity and move away from the Imperialistic direction we are currently taking, fueled by the adminstration's use of fear as a motive to create distrust and hate (that's not anti-Bush, it's just a fact). Bad things have happened. We're all still reeling fron it. But, an eye for an eye isn't an ideal stance when the enemy propogates as we destroy dozens of innocent women and children for every misdirected '16-year old terrorist enemy' that falls to our soldiers' bullets. We are creating more enemies than we can kill, and the rhetoric on this site (and many others) is increasingly chilling and disturbing. The more we hate the invisible terrorists who can hurt us, the more we hate anyone who doesn't believe our views.

Let's all take a breather folks -- the reality of the war on terror, and the war between the dems and repubs, are becoming one and the same.

Posted by: Taylor at October 31, 2004 10:31 PM

Darleen,
Your trying to make it into somthing it isnt. These arent nazis were dealing with. If we can just try to understand the Iraqi people rather than ,unfortanatly, turning it into what it already has become.

Posted by: Caroline at October 31, 2004 10:36 PM

Caroline

Which Iraqi people are you talking about Caroline? Saddam or the people who will be voting in their own government in January?

So you don't think Islamists are anything like Nazis.

Do educate me on their ideological differences, since I find the remarkable similar ... both deathcult quasi-religious ideologies with the stated goal of world domination, hostility to individualism or individual rights and an obsession with the slaughter of Jews.

And what did you find so difficult about my question you couldn't even give a yes or no answer?

Posted by: Darleen at October 31, 2004 10:43 PM

FASCISTS

Posted by: qwerty at October 31, 2004 11:19 PM

Nice propaganda. No facts though, but thanks for making this to appeal to some moral inkling you have to support this war.

You dont need WMDs or facts or real threats to America. All you have to say is that were the good guys and were liberating them no matter what the cost to our society and the resulting global chaos. Those monsters killing americans in Iraq happen to be the people weve liberated. Just as we liberated vietnam. There were no terrorists there, no connections to sept 11th, no WMDs and no direct threats and no possible threats to the US. But hey, even if bush turned into a ha msandwich you'd still vote for him.

The Un found no WMDs because there were no WMDs dont hate them for being right, when Bush lied and went in anyways.

Has bush been looking for that osama guy he was after before?

Posted by: bob at October 31, 2004 11:50 PM

This is truly sad if the only reasons you have to keep Bush in office are pictures of dead men and women and 9/11 images. America, my wonderful country, when were you hijacked by idealogues and empty-headed Christian fundamentalists? When did we turn into a shallow, corrupt, war-mongering society?

My question to you Bush supporters: Do you really think that bombing their country to rubble is going to make them want to be our friend? Is it working for Israel in Palestine? Who are we convincing to not attack us? The dead? Or the one's left grieving over another dead family member?

The care of human life and happiness, and not their destruction, is the first and only object of good government. -- Thomas Jefferson

Posted by: frederoil at November 1, 2004 12:05 AM

Well, Fred, it seems that Osama Bin Laden has actually given you your deal, your out, your pass.

See: American Digest: Trying to Divide the House Against Itself

for the terms under which he'll give you your safety and your peace. If you vote right and live in a state that voted right, i.e. for John Kerry, Osama Bin Laden promises to let you live. It is really quite simple for you and the rest of those like you. Just do as he says and all will be well with your and with yours. He promises this and we all know he's an honorable man.

I'd draw you a picture but you don't seem to understand that pictures stand for real things, real dead men and women, not just for themselves.

Make your state safe, Fred. Report for duty and vote for the candidate of Osama Bin Laden. You owe it to yourself. Then watch the election returns carefully and if the state you're in doesn't go for Kerry, pack the car and flee. Your pity for those that have given their lives is touching. Don't become one of them. Don't be a sacrifice. If you have to, run.

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 1, 2004 12:55 AM

Re. the first reason: I thought it was taboo to say that the troops would be brought home soon. Something about defeatism and cowardice.

Posted by: gjb1968 at November 1, 2004 2:31 AM

You need to read and comprehend the entire sentence, not just the part you think you have something new and interesting to say about.

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 1, 2004 2:57 AM

I CAN'T UNDERSTAND HOW ANY CHRISTIAN COULD VOTE FOR KERRY. I WILL BE VOTING FOR GWB. THANKS FOR THE OUTSTANDING DISPLAY. WE ALL NEED TO BE REMINDED ABOUT WHAT IS TRULY IMPORTANT.

Posted by: L.M.KING at November 1, 2004 3:11 AM

I CAN'T UNDERSTAND HOW ANY CHRISTIAN COULD VOTE FOR KERRY. I WILL BE VOTING FOR GWB. THANKS FOR THE OUTSTANDING DISPLAY. WE ALL NEED TO BE REMINDED ABOUT WHAT IS TRULY IMPORTANT.

Posted by: L.M.KING at November 1, 2004 3:11 AM

God will decide who our new leader will be and I will support Both. r-stx

Posted by: richard at November 1, 2004 4:10 AM

Wait a minute. A prior poster stated that the theme of the pictures was fear.
Those pictures illustrate our present day conflict. Is that poster not afraid?

If John Kerry is elected, you will be.

You will be.

Posted by: Richard at November 1, 2004 4:54 AM

Gerard,

"You need to read and comprehend the entire sentence, not just the part you think you have something new and interesting to say about."

You mean the "with honor" bit? Well heck, did Kerry say he wants to bring them back without honor? Is that what people here think the difference is?

In that case, those people should read and comprehend what Kerry is saying, not just the parts that the Bush campaign distorts for them.

Posted by: gjb1968 at November 1, 2004 5:00 AM

This one is also for Fred (frederoil) because you like to quote dead presidents, this is also from the biography and a direct quote from Thomas Jefferson. "I have sworn upon the altar of God eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man." Jefferson believed in liberty and was a Christian. This country will never stand by and watch tyrants of any kind, on foriegn soil or our own, kill innocent people. Many of them died by the hand of thier own leader. Many of our people died at the hands of thier leaders also. Freedom is never free and bleeding heart liberals such as you may want to visit one of those places that you are so adamanty for. I know that what we are doing is right and there are many people that are grateful for their freedom, regardless of what the mass media is portraying. I am grateful for our troops and also for the judgement our president had to do something about the tyrannical actions of those who were oppressing others. Isreal is the only democratic nation in the Middle East. Are you against democracy or just the United States and Isreal?

Posted by: Karen at November 1, 2004 5:00 AM

"This country will never stand by and watch tyrants of any kind, on foriegn soil or our own, kill innocent people."

Umm, it has done so many, many times, and there is nothing to indicate that that will change.

Heck, Reagan not only stood by and watched Saddam kill innocent Kurds and others, they ramped up trade with him afterwards. Not even the mildest of rebukes. Nothing.

Posted by: gjb1968 at November 1, 2004 5:03 AM

L.M. King,

I didn't understand what you were getting at from your first four posts. Good thing you posted it again.

Posted by: gjb1968 at November 1, 2004 5:05 AM

As spanish person, I can't do nothing but speak for my people here in Spain. We don't "lack the courage to answer them ourselves". We DON'T want to fall in the same violence spiral that only brings violence. The people who planned and commited those murders HAVE BEEN PUT IN JAIL. We don't invade randomless countries just because "we have proofs that they have mass destruction weapons". They _already_ are being put in jail.


I don't know how you can vote bush. Is not that I like Kerry. Is that Iraq DIDN'T have any mass destruction weapons and Bin Laden wasn't in Iraq. I'm 100% for capturing Bin Laden, but attacking Iraq you just attracted attention over Iraq, and that allowed Osama to escape. Iraq war was a failure at _all_ levels. I'm not saying you should vote Kerry, just get Bush and his crappy administration out of the game and get a REAL republican president. One that tries to catch Osama Bin Laden, not one that invades countries randomlessly.

Posted by: Diego at November 1, 2004 5:11 AM

Wow and you totally fail to see what your govt does in killing innocent civilians all around the world. You fail to show the faces of innocent kids in Iraq, Afghanistan and Palestine being murdered by the US terrorist govt. Remember terrorism is anything that causes terror to innoncent civilians and a huge bomb most certainly is that

Posted by: Abe at November 1, 2004 5:12 AM

Okay....an open forum.

The Republicans DO NOT have the monopoly on Christianity. That is a religeous ideation and has no place in politics. We SEPARATED the church from the state. There are Christians voting for the Reps. the Dems. the Green Party, etc. Give over.

I support our troops. I believe in the men and women who are doing their best. I love them. Whether the war is "right" or "wrong" doesn't matter to me, it's the fighters and the people they are trying to save that matter to me.

I'm a bit peeved that G.W. was part of the CIA that was so happy to bring Saddam to power in the first bloody place. Trying to make up for past mistakes?

I'm tired of all the jobs in my state being sent overseas. Our industries here are leaving and our unemployment is insane. Who's going to fix it?

The last time period when people were getting this rabid over something...we had the Civil War. Just vote for who you want and don't worry about who everyone else is voting for.

Once again..... Christianity and morality are NOT the sole purview of the Republicans. The rest of them/us have the same things.Yeesh.

Oh yeah! Before I forget...YOU ROCK SAMI!!!!! Our Amazon Goddess in the Army overseas!!!!!She's fighting for what she believes and that makes us love her even more! Cu ena durus Tae'nah arcis!!!!!
*Fist to Heart*

Posted by: AngelsAmazon at November 1, 2004 5:41 AM

About that whole Christianity thing I posted earlier? *Ahem* The United States of America was developed by people who sought freedom for their religeous beliefs. And it is in the Constitution that there is a freedom of religeous beliefs. That means that ALL religeons may vote here in the US. *cough* *ahem* Thank you.

Posted by: AngelsAmazon at November 1, 2004 5:54 AM

With respect,

These images move us all and re-emphasize the obvious case against terrorism. None of them make the case for George Bush. One can support our troops in Iraq without endorsing an administration that put them there ill prepared, ill equipped and wrongheadedly. I am a loyal patriotic American and I am voting for Kerry.

Posted by: jack at November 1, 2004 6:10 AM

Mr. Hewitt this graphic and emotional photo set and the simple words you put with them say so eloquently what I have been holding in my own heart. I wish this photo essay could become a tv commercial, it is that powerful. I am crying now as I type this response. God Bless and thanks for the clarity. Go Bush!

Posted by: Mary Willis at November 1, 2004 6:18 AM

You are a Great American! Thank you for doing the RIGHT thing.
God Bless you and God Bless our Great Country and our Great President - George W. Bush!!

We salute you...
Phil and Lillian Perry
Rancho Cucamonga, California

Posted by: The Perrys at November 1, 2004 6:42 AM

Diego, with all due respect, a story that I just read from a respected British journal is that the scum associated with the attack in Spain are still at large - that only the tip of the iceberg has been apprehended - so, one of two possibilities exist:

1) The British press is misinformed or lying, or
2) The Spanish press is misinformed or lying

I think that it will take years to get to the majority of these thugs - to say they are already "in jail" when only a couple people have been detained is not seeing it very objectively. The largest part of those perpetrators are in countries thousands of miles from Spain, and I truthfully doubt the Spanish government is going after them there.

There are several posts on here from people that appear to live by the creedo that being pushed around and living in fear by an oppresive regime who limits your freedoms and orders you to observe their values, religion, and ideologies, is fine as long as they don't kill you or your family. Americans don't see it that way, and we are never going to.

We don't believe that governments grant freedom and power to the people, but rather, that a Divine Creator did so, and that governments are to serve as an instrument to ensure the freedom and safety of the people. We refuse to live in fear, and we believe that we have the right, and the responsibility to help and protect those around the world who cannot help themselves. We so deeply believe this that we send our soldiers who sometimes die, we spend our money when there are a number of other things we'd really rather spend it on, and we endure adverse world opinion to do what we believe is right. Twice in the 1900's this country stepped up to help others in the world - including Europe - and you might be speaking German now if we hadn't. Impossible? Not according to a host of historians and geopolitical analysts.

No weapons of mass destruction? What was it that Saddam used to gas his opponents from Iran with back in the 80's? What did he use against Muslims that weren't part of his sect in the no-fly zones in the northern and southern parts of Iraq? Well, lo and behold, it was deadly gas. What was it that UN weapons inspectors found during the late 80's - nuclear enriching equipment. And what was it that Iraq was buying from Russia and other countries as recently as the late 90's - well gosh, it was inventory for the materials needed to make biological weapons.

Where are they now? Someone knows the answer to this question. Even if they cannot be found now, they WERE there and that is a fact. Are they buried in Syria? Were they taken by trucks to Russia or Jordan, or another country? Is it possible they are still hidden in underground bunkers that haven't been found yet? What about the trucks that had been set up as mobile labs to create Rycine gas and biological weapons that were complete with the warhead canisters for holding the compounds and being mounted on a rocket for launch. These were found in the first 60 days of the war - think Saddam had these to "keep up with the Jones'" in his neighborhood?

I think, given time, we will have answers to these questions. I've heard reports that some things have been found in the past several weeks but aren't being disclosed because Bush would rather lose the election than have it appear he held information and evidence until it could be used to sway people to vote for him. Any truth to it? I have no idea. Time will tell. But if it is true, we have a much more honorable man here than what Mr. Kerry is trying to paint him as in his campaign rhetoric, and that Michael Moore is helping him with. Mr. Moore's film contains more than 90 falicies, lies, and manipulations used to create a distorted environment in the movie that supports Moore's views. He is the worst kind of liar - the one who creates opinion by mixing 90% truth with 10% lies. But he's okay with it though because of that 'ka-ching, ka-ching' sound you hear - he's made millions with his docufantasy. The part though that is TRULY frightening is that I have friends telling me that they believe the whole movie is true - they've done no research to find that film clips from two different times were used to make an event look like one that serves MM's purpose. They have no comprehension that quotes from various people are about different topics than the one they're supposed to be talking about.

I am thankful the election is tomorrow. And when it is done I will stand behind the man the people have chosen, because win or lose, that is how America works.

And by the way Abe, Yassir Arafat is the one killing innocent people in Palestine. Arafat was offered everything by Israel that he asked for, AND MORE, in the interest of peace - and Arafat turned them down. Why? Because his revenue stream from supporting Arabs and their nations would slow way down or stop - Arafat is a multi-millionaire made by money through support caused by the death of his own people - some kinda guy there, huh?. And if you really knew the Palestian agenda then you would know that their own leaders have said the strategy is to win consession after consession and eventually drive every Israeli into the sea - that there wouldn't be a single Jew alive - can you see how it would be very difficult to negotiate a true peace with someone who is sworn to your death and destruction?

Posted by: David at November 1, 2004 6:44 AM

Many interesting comments. If we all accept responsibility for ourselves and our actions we would be much better off. Each of us needs to look within to find our good and share it with someone else, no matter their political or religious views. As citizens of the independent and free country of America instead of looking for excuses and handouts from the government lets take on a personal responsibility for our own values and being, and peacefully share them with another. Yes I am for our troops and I am not sure that the war is just or otherwise, because so many who are suppose to be unbiased in there reporting have turned it into a 30 second soundbite either for or against a particular candidate giving it a bad taste in many ways. I feel strongly that to change leaders in mid war would be counter productive and place our country's troups in more danger and that guides me in my voting decisions along with the understanding that our economy is cyclical and the actions of the President generally do not impact it for anywhere from 4 to 6 years from the time they are in office. Maybe we are actually feeling the results of some of the things that Clinton implemented. The arguement is an endless battle that will be resolved with the election. We will have to wait for history to be written to decide the true results. I pray that the results are favorable to a continued free country that the masses from around the world strive to reach so that they may achieve "The American Dream" something many Americans have lost site of.

Posted by: Hoop at November 1, 2004 6:59 AM

bin Laden is out there... and Bush likes it that way!

Chickenhawk George will send our young men & women to war and then have their children foot the bill.

Posted by: bettermore at November 1, 2004 7:03 AM

Oops... did I say "will send"???

He's a liar, Cheney's a crook

Posted by: bettermore at November 1, 2004 7:05 AM

Abortions in the US were decreasing before Bush took office. Now they are on the rise.

Maybe if women felt more optimistic about their future, they'd give life a chance...

Posted by: Anne at November 1, 2004 7:10 AM

And so Anne, you feel that if John Kerry is elected to office, abortions will decline?

I'm not absolutely certain, but I think that is about the most disconnected logic I have ever seen - no disrespect intended.

According to a recent study, abortions in this country are performed for the following reasons:

Rape, Incest -

Posted by: David at November 1, 2004 7:30 AM

it didn't seem to like the percent signs I used, so I'll type it all in - abortions are performed for:

Rape, Incest - less than 2 percent
Life of Mother- less than 2 percent
Religious - about 6 percent
Birth Control - about 84 percent
Other - about 6 percent

It looks more like promiscuous behavior than fear of the future to me.

Posted by: David at November 1, 2004 7:35 AM

I'll vote for President Bush on election day.
I'll vote for him because of the two choices for C-in-C he has proven that he is the man for the job.
This is not to say that mistakes weren't made in Iraq or the prosecution of the WoT.
Every President from the first to the current have made mistakes in war.
I'll vote for President Bush because he has shown that he is willing to make mistakes.
John Kerry has shown that he is willing to sell out his comrades for political gain.
John Kerry has shown that he is willing to treat with this nations enemies for political gain.
John Kerry has shown that he is willing to be anything to everybody.
What John Kerry has not shown is that he is willing to do everything nessasary to win the WAR.
Our Nation was attacked,Our Nation MUST prevail.
I'm not afraid of another terror attack on the U.S.
I'm not afraid that our enemy will defeat us.
I'm not afraid that my children will grow up in an Islamist society.
I AM afraid that John Kerry will be elected President.
Vote For President Bush on Nov. 2nd
Buck

Posted by: buck buchana at November 1, 2004 7:42 AM

I find it quite repulsive, myself... that Kerry voted for this war and then has the nerve to try to use it against Bush for his political gain. Kerry will say anything he can think of that people want to hear, to get into the oval office. He's an undecisive and backstabbing Frenchman, just like the French leaders who all stayed out of this war because Saddam was paying them to stay out of it. Who's paying them now? I laugh at their stupidity. And I'm appalled anyone would vote for the likes of John Kerry, a man that should be ashamed of himself for dishonoring every American Veteran of the Viet Nam war. He makes me sick.

At least Bush had the guts to stand up and take charge of a situation in defense of the world. Not just us. Russia added to this situation when they informed us that their intelligence found out that Saddam had plans to attack our homeland... before this war came about. Saddam asked for this war when he turned inspectors away from Iraq. When it comes to WMDs.. if he didn't have them, he shouldn't have stopped the inspectors. Saddam brought on this mess we are in. Not George W. Bush. Saddam wanted to play.. so he got more games than he bargained for.

Bush did the right thing... WMDs or not. Because when it comes to dealing with someone like Saddam, you don't sit on your azz and wait for him to attack. We believed he had WMDs.. Congress believed it.. Kerry believed it! And 37 other countries that also believed it and have been in this war with us from the begining of it!

I praise Bush for the work he's done. God bless our troops.

And John Kerry... sit down an shut the hell up, you lousy coward that injured yourself just to get to run from combat after 4 lousy months in Nam!

Posted by: Laura at November 1, 2004 7:44 AM

David -

I think that if more men and women had jobs, they'd be less afraid to raise a child.

I think that if more women had health insurance, they'd use preventive birth control.

I think that if we had a country as fervent about peace and prosperity as they are about war, more women would be less afraid to give birth.

So I think that whatever president wins should focus on jobs, access to health insurance, and working toward peace (and away from fear-mongering). If you think Kerry is this man, then yes.

PS: what is a Religious abortion (your 6 percent)?

Posted by: Anne at November 1, 2004 7:48 AM

As far as I can tell not many people posting comments on this site see the entire spectrum of what is going on here. You are all extreme conservatives or liberals. Try looking at all the issues and you will see that we are in BIG trouble no matter which candidate gets elected. It seems both candidates care more about themselves than America. I pray for political reform please! Why can't we focus on the REAL issues and not be blinded by party loyalty? Those pictures mean a lot to me too, but they don't prove to me that one candidate is better than the other. A close look at either one makes me wish I could choose 'None of the above.' However, I still commend you all for being passionate about voting. If only more of America cared about politics maybe we could unite to fight against the corruption that is taking place in Washington. Vote your heart and may God bless the USA no matter who we choose.

Posted by: Travis at November 1, 2004 8:10 AM

Anne - the "religious" 6 percent is generally one that is performed for reasons that it would impede upon the tenets of one's religious beliefs or that of their institution. Many think that it falls into the "Birth Control" catagory - personal thought I suppose.

I should very much like to see actual statistics on your thoughts regarding jobs and insurance making people feel more at ease with rearing children. Lack of work and insurance doesn't seem to have deterred the people of India, China, or Africa.

But I am in 100 percent agreemnt that this world would be a much better place without war, and I look forward to the day when we truly care for and watch out for every one around us - when there are no starving people anywhere in the world, when disease doesn't ravage the body and mind, and when each of us can see and appreciate that each life IS precious :)


ps - Kerry isn't going to receive my vote - Bush may not either, as there is a very talented and informed candidate from the American Constitution Party on the ballot, but we will see.

Posted by: David at November 1, 2004 8:11 AM

Well Travis, my thought on the two-party system is that it doesn't work. It's just two sides of the same coin .... a bit different view to look at, but no real difference in value.

There is some very deep and thought-provoking speculation on why things are this way in the two party system - about who is really in charge, and that presidents who don't play by their rules once in office are assassinated, for example. Part of UN control? The old Illuminati, Skull and Bones, or Carlylse Group theories? Hard to say for me, just an average Joe.

I understand the "none of the above" thoughts, but you perhaps need to view it more in context of the lesser of evils - and then, good luck on figuring that one out.

Posted by: David at November 1, 2004 8:28 AM

PEOPLE, WAKE UP! WE ARE FIGHTING THE WRONG WAR! WHILE OUR SOLIDERS (AND MANY CIVILIANS) CONTINUE TO DIE IN IRAQ, BIN-LADEN CONTINUES TO ROAM FREE. HOW CAN YOU VOTE TO RE-ELECT A PRESIDENT, WHO IS SO INCOMPETENT AND WHO HAS DECEIVED YOU AND THE REST OF AMERICAN? I'M TYPING THIS IN BOLD SO YOU CAN SEE RATHER THAN REMAIN BLINDED BY BUSH'S LIES.

Posted by: Lawrence Liu at November 1, 2004 8:34 AM

79 Newspaper and Media Endorsements for Kerry since Oct 24th (including 13 reversals since 2000 from Bush!):

1. October 31, 2004 - John Kerry "brings to the presidency two decades of distinguished and principled leadership in the Senate, an admirable familiarity with foreign policy and domestic issues, and a thoughtful, determined approach to governance."
The Baltimore Sun (Md.)

2. October 31, 2004 - Mr. Kerry, we're confident, would govern from reasonably close to the political center, as Mr. Clinton did.. It reveals an unusually sharp intellect, and a president capable of seeing not only the dangerous world that Mr. Bush sees, but the complicated world that Mr. Bush will never see.
The Times Union (N.Y.)

3. October 31, 2004 - Sen. Kerry's policies on minimum wage, universal access to health care, reduced taxes for the middle class and tough environmental regulations offer hope to Americans that things can get better. Delaware News Journal

4. October 31, 2004 - After 20 years in the Senate, John Kerry is seasoned at statecraft. He has specialized in the biggest foreign affairs problems facing the country. He served on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and chaired the Senate Subcommittee on Terrorism, Narcotics and International Operations. He worked with Sen. John McCain, America's most famous Vietnam War prisoner, to lay to rest old doubts about Americans in captivity.
Anchorage Daily News (Alaska)

5. October 31, 2004 - John Kerry "is the candidate who offers the best hope of ending the war in Iraq in a manner that both minimizes U.S. troop losses and maximizes the chance that Iraq will remain a free and sovereign nation. And he holds the most promise of refocusing the resources now being spent in Iraq on what the real war this nation should be fighting the war on terrorism." Montgomery Advertiser (Ala.)

6. October 31, 2004 - As president of the United States, Kerry would bring to the Oval Office the humility necessary to understanding when he has erred and the agility of mind necessary to making adjustments. If American voters give him the chance to put those assets to work, as they should, things will go better abroad, especially in Iraq, and at home.
Myrtle Beach Sun-News (S.C.)

7. October 31, 2004 - We think the calm, reasoned approach to tackling issues that Kerry showed during the three presidential debates will bring us closer together as a nation.
Sheboygan Press (Wi.)

8. October 31, 2004 - Sen. Kerry can begin to restore our credibility with the rest of the world, which is right now at one of its lowest points in history.
Vallejo Times Herald (Ca.)

9. October 31, 2004 - Kerry has vowed to reverse Bush's efforts to weaken clean air regulations and to take more aggressive legislative action against acid rain. He would enhance tax incentives for automakers that produce more fuel efficient cars -- and for consumers who buy such vehicles. The Ithaca Journal (N.Y.)

10. October 31, 2004 - Kerry is right when he said Iraq is the wrong war, at the wrong place at the wrong time. But now that we're fully engaged, Kerry has a better plan to end the war and secure the peace. As for domestic issues, Kerry is more in tune with the needs of average Americans. The Corning Leader (N.Y.)

11. October 31, 2004 - . He would establish an energy policy that would begin to wean us from Middle Eastern oil and the geopolitical tragedies that our dependence has created.
Barre-Montpelier Times Argus (Vt.)

12. October 30, 2004 - John Kerry sees the world through a broader lens than the current president. He understands that the U.S. cannot afford to continue alienating allies.
Aspen Daily News (Colo.)

13. October 30, 2004 - Kerry is a man who comes across as thoughtful and reflective, which would be a welcome balm after the sharp-edged presidency of George W. Bush Bennington Banner (Vt.)

14. October 29, 2004 - Mr. Kerry's passion has been foreign affairs. He knows the world and its dangers. He understands that military force is essential to protect us, but that guns and bombs alone won't make us secure; we need to use other weapons as well. Wilmington Star-News (N.C.)

15. October 29, 2004 - President Kerry would appeal to Americans' better nature, restoring some of the optimism that has vanished during the Bush years. . A Kerry administration would give us a proud America untainted by the arrogance of the Bush White House. The Berkshire Eagle (Mass.)

16. October 29, 2004 - Here's the scenario: The deficit is at the half-trillion-dollar level. Almost 150,000 soldiers, sailors and aviators are risking life and limb in a war in Iraq that was fueled by faulty information. Our health care system is reaching the point of dysfunction due to high costs, litigation and regulations. The economic recovery is struggling against steadily rising energy prices. Our air grows more polluted, energy supplies are more tenuous and our civil liberties are on the defensive. Translation: It's time for a change -- and given the two major candidates for president, the Democratic candidate John Kerry is the agent for change. The Ithaca Journal

17. October 29, 2004 - John Kerry will bring a new hope to the White House with an administration that will be open to ideas and dialogue, rather than march in step to a single, inflexible ideology. ... Kerry understands and respects democracy and the importance of a strong middle class to its endurance. That's why we believe he deserves to be the next president of the United States. The Times Record (Me.)

18. October 28, 2004 - Record Medicare premium hikes and Bush's opposition to allowing the purchase of Canadian drugs make Kerry the choice. In the 2000 general election, this publication endorsed George W. Bush for President. Courier-Post (N.J.)

19. October 28, 2004 - We think once again the nation is ripe for change. We endorse John Kerry and his Seneca-native running mate, John Edwards.
In the 2000 general election, this publication endorsed George W. Bush for President. Anderson Independent-Mail (S.C.)

20. October 28, 2004 - We ask, who has a better right to question what he feels is an unjust war than a hero who fought bravely in that war? Kerry’s opinions about the war in Iraq have also evolved as he and the nation learned about phantom weapons of mass destruction and non-existent connections between Saddam Hussein and al-Qaida. The Daily Star (N.Y.)

21. October 28, 2004 - We need a leader who can foster our hopes instead of focusing on our anger. We need John Kerry to be the next President of the United States.
The Nome Nugget (Alaska)

22. October 27, 2004 - Suburban News Publications has never made a Presidential endorsement. Our 22 community newspapers do not regularly cover national politics, and we have always considered it more important to offer readers our opinions on Central Ohio candidates and issues. This year is different. The stakes in next week's Presidential election are so high, and the contrast between the candidates is so stark, that we cannot in good conscience keep silent. SNP strongly endorses Sen. John Kerry for President and urges voters to support him on Nov. 2.
Suburban News (Ohio)

23. October 27, 2004 - Kerry's domestic policies also are more inclusive than Bush's. For all of Bush's folksy ways, it is Kerry who is in touch with the middle class. It is Kerry who understands the toll taken by the high cost of health care, by jobs lost to foreign competition, by fears of being able to put food on the table. Springfield News-Leader (Mo.)

24. October 27, 2004 - Kerry demonstrated during the three presidential debates, that he has the intellectual skills needed to lead.
In the 2000 general election, this publication endorsed George W. Bush for President. La Crosse Tribune (Wis.)

25. October 27, 2004 - Kerry’s record - Vietnam combat vet to anti-war activist to effective U.S. senator - speaks of courage, patriotism and a balanced and thoughtful view of this country, its needs and its role in the world. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (Wis.)

26. October 27, 2004 - We believe Kerry can keep our country safe against terrorists, forge closer ties with our allies and friends to ensure victory in the war against terrorism and strengthen our economy. The Daily Journal

27. October 26, 2004 - In every crucial area of concern to Americans (the economy, health care, the environment, Social Security, the judiciary, national security, foreign policy, the war in Iraq, the fight against terrorism), Kerry offers a clear, corrective alternative to Bush’s curious blend of smugness, radicalism, and demagoguery.
The New Yorker

28. October 26, 2004 - John Kerry has "showed a grasp of complex issues and the ability to sort through ethical and political wickets. Most of all, he displayed a willingness to choose leadership over empire, to return to America's proud tradition of alliances, coalition-building and diplomacy." Burlington Free Press (Vt.)

29. October 26, 2004 - John Kerry's emphasis on stem cell research touches on an area where Bush's narrowness has stood in the way of scientific advancement. Indeed, Bush has a habit of disregarding science when it presents him with inconvenient truths. Thus, he has a record of censoring from government reports — on global warming and other issues — scientific findings that are not to his liking. It is another way he has damaged the credibility of the United States. Rutland Herald (Vt.)

30. October 25, 2004 - Change has become necessary and Senator John Kerry can guide the country in stepping out from the circle of limited options that President George W. Bush has put it in. La Opinión


31. October 25, 2004 - John Kerry "understands that American power depends on American credibility. The pre-emptive war against Iraq will make it harder to rally international (and US) opinion in future crises dealing with aspiring nuclear powers such as Iran and North Korea." Financial Times

32. October 25, 2004 - We believe John Kerry is a strong leader who has the wisdom and courage to guide America through this time of turbulence, rebuild the social and economic fabric of our country and regain the respect of our allies around the world. The Citizens Voice (Pa.)

33. October 25, 2004 - Kerry plans to expand health insurance to cover an additional 27 million people, in part by expanding existing federal employee insurance to private citizens, giving tax credits to the jobless to cover insurance costs, help insurance companies cover the cost of catastrophic medical expenses if they hold down premiums. Record-Eagle (Mich.)

34. October 25, 2004 - The defining issue is who would better defend our country and who would make the better commander in chief. Kerry stands a better chance in carrying out those duties than a man who already has shown failure in those roles.
The Herald-Standard (Pa.)

35. October 24, 2004 - John Kerry “pledges both to fight in Iraq and to reach out to allies; to hunt down terrorists, and to engage without arrogance the Islamic world. These are the right goals, and we think Mr. Kerry is the better bet to achieve them.”

36. October 24, 2004 - Kerry is not an ideologue, and his desire for success makes him more likely to compromise and find common ground with his opposition. He is the one candidate who can begin to heal the deeply bitter divisions in the nation. Bush cannot and will not do that. Newsday (N.Y.)

37. October 24, 2004 - Even newspapers that endorsed George W. Bush four years ago have changed their minds in 2004; the Seattle Times and The Oregonian of Portland switched to the Democrat this time, while the Tampa Tribune backed away from Mr. Bush and made no endorsement. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

38. October 24, 2004 - John Kerry, who 20 years ago was leading campaigns to solve problems such as acid rain, has pledged to end obstacles the Bush administration has created to meaningful stem cell research and has proposed a program to ease America's dependence on Middle East oil, important for the nation's security as well as the environment.
The Star Ledger (N.J)


39. October 24, 2004 - The question that Americans need to ask themselves, going into the voting booth a week from Tuesday, is this: Do you like the direction our nation is heading? If the answer is no, then your vote should be for Sen. John Kerry.
In the 2000 general election, this publication endorsed George W. Bush for President. Chicago Sun-Times

40. October 24, 2004 - We believe Mr. Kerry would be a more bipartisan and effective leader than Mr. Bush. In the Nov. 2 general election, the Sentinel endorses John Kerry for president of the United States.
In the 2000 general election, this publication endorsed George W. Bush for President. Orlando Sentinel

41. October 24, 2004 - Kerry promises to focus our efforts on terrorists who threaten us, protect civil liberties, return fairness to our tax policy and implement a plan to free us from dependence on Persian Gulf oil. That platform merits his election. The Buffalo News (N.Y.)

42. October 24, 2004 - John Kerry, the Democratic nominee, has demonstrated, particularly during the televised debates, breadth of knowledge, ability to understand complex issues, and sound judgment — qualities that have been missing from Mr. Bush's stewardship. Louisville Courier-Journal (Ky.)

43. October 24, 2004 - Kerry understands that a strong America is an America with steadfast allies. He has vowed to support U.S. troops abroad by providing them with the proper equipment and training. The Tennessean

44. October 24, 2004 - John Kerry “does not tend toward vindictiveness or in-your-face triumphalism. There is a dignity about him.We have seen Kerry grow and develop in presidential qualities to the point we're confident in recommending him as a person of common sense and decency - a leader who has what it takes to bring Americans back together.” The Des Moines Register (Iowa)

45. October 24, 2004 - John Kerry is the better choice for president. Bergen Record (N.J.)

46. October 24, 2004 - We heartily endorse John Kerry. He would be a president who would restore America's respect in the world. There would be a positive resolution to the war in Iraq. Our country would be safer, as our focus on fighting terrorism would not waver. The economy would be more oriented toward ordinary Americans. Las Vegas Sun

47. October 24, 2004 - Kerry offers us the chance for a new beginning, and throughout the past year's grueling campaign, he has demonstrated the toughness necessary to lead the country in a time of war
In the 2000 general election, this publication endorsed George W. Bush for President. Los Angeles Daily News

48. October 24, 2004 - Kerry and his running mate, North Carolina's Senator Edwards, have not campaigned as driven by ideology, but by principle. That is the profile of a president. The News & Observer (N.C.)

49. October 24, 2004 - Senator Kerry, we are convinced, will be a much more effective president at creating jobs, not eliminating them. The Toledo Blade (Ohio)

50. October 24, 2004 - John Kerry "has the depth of intellect, strength and wisdom necessary to defend our nation against an expanding array of enemies. He possesses the good character and humility necessary to restore credibility and confidence in a White House damaged on both accounts. The Journal News (N.Y.)

51. October 24, 2004 - Sen. Kerry, we believe, has a chance to restore the traditional, cooperative approach toward foreign policy that has served America well since the Eisenhower administration. We need more allies in the war on terror and to help us protect the homeland. The Commercial Appeal (Tenn.)

52. October 24, 2004 - Kerry is an intelligent leader with a high capacity for nuance. He understands the complexity of issues, resisting the simple answers Bush often espouses. On the international front, he argues for building broader and stronger coalitions, much like the one Bush's father put together before the first Gulf War. The Daily Herald (Wash.)

53. October 24, 2004 - Kerry understands the need to work with international partners. As a 19-year veteran of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee and a student of international affairs, he understands the uses of diplomacy and its limitations as well.
The News Tribune (Wash.)

54. October 24, 2004 - John F. Kerry says he has a plan for a safer America that includes a larger investment in homeland security. He would not leave the nation's seaports, railways and nuclear power plants vulnerable to attack. None of those potential targets has sufficient funds for protection against terrorist attacks. The Republican (Mass.)

55. October 24, 2004 - Change always entails risk, but we believe Mr. Kerry is well-prepared to step into the Oval Office. Although he has been more effective in the Senate as an investigator than as a writer of laws, he is exceptionally well-versed on domestic and international issues — certainly far more so than was Mr. Bush four years ago. In the 2000 general election, this publication endorsed George W. Bush for President. Telegram & Gazette (Mass.)

56. October 24, 2004 - Mr. Kerry has demonstrated a trait of intellect that has been absent and that must be restored to the White House. That is, he is willing to be self-critical, to challenge the rightness of decisions he has made, and to make changes if new information or situations demand it. Mr. Bush, by his own admission, does not do this. In the 2000 general election, this publication endorsed George W. Bush for President. The Morning Call (Pa.)

57. October 24, 2004 - John Kerry promises to start us back in the right direction - to an America where moderation is the tone in social policy, where responsibility is the rule in tax and spending policy, and where the commander-in-chief's leadership, like the threat against freedom, is truly global. Daily Press (Va.)

58. October 24, 2004 - Bush, who turned out to be more conservative than compassionate and who has made the nation even more divided, must be held accountable for these failings. John Kerry is the only serious alternative to four more years of this flawed presidency. We are putting our faith in his potential to do better. In the 2000 general election, this publication endorsed George W. Bush for President. The Flint Journal (Mich.)

59. October 24, 2004 - Sen. John Kerry served his country bravely and with honor in Vietnam. He understands this duty not as a concept but as something very personal. He has demonstrated during the campaign his resolve to successfully conclude the war in Iraq, to reach out to our allies to help in that effort and to direct our attention to the true war on terrorism and not lead us on misguided attempts to settle old scores. For those reasons alone, The Star endorses John Kerry for president. Ventura County Star (Ca.)

60. October 24, 2004 - Kerry will be a more thoughtful, inclusive, consensus-building president - within this country and in dealing with other countries. A president can listen to other world leaders, and at the same time be decisive. We think Kerry has the right stuff to lead the world in the war on terror. Lansing State Journal (Mich.)

61. October 24, 2004 - The country needs a change of course. Sen. Kerry offers a change and a lifetime of service to the nation. We believe the voters ought to elect him president. In the 2000 general election, this publication endorsed George W. Bush for President. Corpus Christi Caller Times (Texas)

62. October 24, 2004 - Sen. Kerry appears to present a more thoughtful approach to combatting terrorism. Frankly, we're concerned about President Bush's obvious willingness to use America's military might to coerce Arab nations into doing our bidding - something that has never been done successfully and something Kerry would be much less likely to attempt. The Telegraph (Ga.)

63. October 24, 2004 - Kerry offers a fresh start and new solutions whereas the incumbent is locked into a spiral of denial that demonstrates intractability in the face of what many believe are necessary common-sense course adjustments to our nation's direction. The Times (La.)

64. October 24, 2004 - We believe Mr. Bush's opponent, Sen. John F. Kerry, would be better equipped by temperament, character and conviction to lead the United States out of the foreign and domestic predicaments in which it finds itself. The senator is a thoughtful man of proven courage, patriotism and ability to lead. We recommend his election. The Times of Trenton (N.J)

65. October 24, 2004 - The choice came down to which candidate best represented the values that Americans hold most dear: compassion for the have-nots and those who feel they have been left out, a dedication to the principles set forth in the Bill of Rights, and a commitment to open government as well as free and open debate. That candidate is Sen. John Kerry. Reno Gazette-Journal (Nev.)

66. October 24, 2004 - This election, we support the candidate who has the leadership to bring America together to support our troops in ways more tangible than magnetic emblems stuck to the backs of cars. John Kerry can provide that leadership. In the 2000 general election, this publication endorsed George W. Bush for President. Quad City Times (Iowa)

67. October 24, 2004 - We encourage voters to choose optimism and give a Kerry-Edwards team the chance to turn our economy around, to make the world a safer place and to restore the promise that is America to all Americans. Asheville Citizen-Times (N.C.)

68. October 24, 2004 - We believe Kerry will reverse the Bush administration's reckless fiscal policies of tax cuts concurrent with major spending increases. These policies have ballooned the deficit to unprecedented levels. If that trend is not reversed, it will lead again to soaring interest rates and a downward business spiral. Daily Southtown (Ill.)

69. October 24, 2004 - Kerry is a battle tested Vietnam veteran, turned war protestor, turned statesman. He knows firsthand both the folly of fighting the wrong war and the bitter price to be paid for it. As president he will not foolishly nor arrogantly put troops in harm's way. He will work hard to re-establish America's reputation as the world's leading coalition builder. He will restore credibility with our allies and confront our enemies with a true alliance for freedom. The Gainesville Sun (Fl.)

70. October 24, 2004 - John Kerry would respect ordinary working Americans, that he would work to reform entitlement programs for the sick and elderly, and that he would be more involved at an intellectual level with the policy discussions in which every president should be immersed. We also have more confidence in Democrats to get the debt under control. Nashville Scene

Posted by: Bud at November 1, 2004 8:34 AM

Thank you and God Bless! I will continue to pray for our country and our president and that our people will remember as you have when they vote tomorrow!

Posted by: Steve at November 1, 2004 8:36 AM

When the new tape of Osama bin Laden was released recently, I saw George Bush and John Kerry's reactions to the tape. Both spoke out strongly and clearly about hunting down this leader of evil. I was convinced that both men have strong convictions about capturing OBL as soon as possible. Then I was amazed this morning to see Dick Cheney in Hawaii, claiming that John Kerry took a poll and put his finger up to see which was the wind was blowing before he gave a reaction to the OBL tape. That's a complete lie by Dick Cheney, along with many others.

See Dick Cheney's remarks from 1993, when he predicted EXACTLY what is going on in IRAQ today, as the reason why George Bush, Sr. did not go on into IRAQ then. When we act as the aggressor, we fall right into bin Laden's trap, because he has convinced a large part of the world, (many more people than we have Americans in the world) that we are the aggressors...

Dick Cheney's PROPHETIC remarks can be seen at

http://www.bush-flipflop.com/

VERY interesting!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Pete at November 1, 2004 8:45 AM

Our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name...
God bless all of our soldiers and their commander-n-chief, GW.

Posted by: Queenie Austin Texas at November 1, 2004 9:10 AM


" If you can read this thank your Teacher, if you can read this in English, Thank a Vet!

God Bless and keep safe our troops everywhere. May the Lord comfort those survivors, of the troops who gave all. May the Lord restore our President to his office, and continue to guide him daily.

Rasdorf@aol.com

Posted by: W.R. Rex at November 1, 2004 9:49 AM


" If you can read this thank your Teacher, if you can read this in English, Thank a Vet!

God Bless and keep safe our troops everywhere. May the Lord comfort those survivors, of the troops who gave all. May the Lord restore our President to his office, and continue to guide him daily.

Rasdorf@aol.com

Posted by: W.R. Rex at November 1, 2004 9:51 AM

Most of the "reasons" you have given are not reasons to re-elect Bush, but to remove him from office.

Nice going ace.

Posted by: jay at November 1, 2004 10:02 AM

Gee whiz Jay, how about supporting your position with some clear logic and evidence. Anyone can say "I disagree", but how about some substantiation of your view? We have enough Hit and Run in America.

Posted by: David at November 1, 2004 10:17 AM

Alas, David, or "not-so-alas," jay's not the kind of guy here for the discussion. He's just a drive-by.

On the 3rd the most important link in Jay's bookmark file will be: SuicideHotlines - When You Feel You Can't Go On -- Let Someone Know Your Pain.

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 1, 2004 10:29 AM

All your presentations has nothing with either Bush or Kerry, or even election at all. Totally unrelated, thus doesn't answer the question in header!

Posted by: some russian living in Chicago at November 1, 2004 10:36 AM

Well, ex-cuuuuse me!

BTW, is you email address, dummy@dummy.com, some sort of subtext to the post. Please dilute.

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 1, 2004 10:38 AM

Gerard,

Tip of the hat to you. Amazing.

Posted by: mitch at November 1, 2004 10:48 AM

As an American who is living and working in Kabul, Afghanistan, I see daily what the Afghan people are trying to over come. I do pray that Bush wins the elections, not so much for those that are in the political arena, but for those that have endured true suffering from others, such as the Afhgans and the people of Iraq.

Posted by: Rebeka at November 1, 2004 10:49 AM

As an American who is living and working in Kabul, Afghanistan, I see daily what the Afghan people are trying to over come. I do pray that Bush wins the elections, not so much for those that are in the political arena, but for those that have endured true suffering from others, such as the Afhgans and the people of Iraq.

Posted by: Rebeka at November 1, 2004 10:50 AM

As an American who is living and working in Kabul, Afghanistan, I see daily what the Afghan people are trying to over come. I do pray that Bush wins the elections, not so much for those that are in the political arena, but for those that have endured true suffering from others, such as the Afhgans and the people of Iraq.

Posted by: Rebeka at November 1, 2004 10:50 AM

I like what you've done, and if we have a coward in office we'll never win! My vote's for Bush, a man with a strong spine!

Posted by: Joey at November 1, 2004 11:15 AM

I think it's funny when all conservatives can say about John Kerry is that he is a "flip-flopper." Perhaps you should read www.factcheck.org (a non-partisan website) and see how untrue and exaggerated the claims that the Bush/Cheney campaing have been making against Kerry really are. Kerry/Edwards also twist facts, but the Republicans seem to have the most mindless irritating rhetoric I have ever had to displeasure to read. I mean, all they do is say "Kerry won't protect us, he's a flip-flopper." This presentation really has nothing to do with re-electing Bush. People should read this article
http://www.dangerouscitizen.com/Articles/1254.aspx

which talks about the massive number of Iraqi civilian deaths. Their estimated figures are on the conservative side too, because they did not include data from the high-conflict areas, like Fallujah. Doesn't anybody care that this administration has made absolutely zero effort to give the American people (or any people for that matter) even an estimation of civilian deaths?

Yeah, we're spreading freedom and liberty, tell that to the approximately 100,000 Iraqi civilians who were killed as a direct result of our actions. Tell their families who are now grieving them. It is circumstances like the ones in Iraq now that breed terrorism in the first place. As long as America continues to be the aggressor, we will never be rid of terrorism.

Doesn't anybody care about Bush's assault on our environment (Texas became the most polluted state under his time as governor, and Houston replaced LA as the most polluted city)? How patriotic is it to support a candidate who favors corporate interests to our environment? (the number of "undrinkable, unswimmable and unfishable lake has risen from 40% to 45% under Bush). Not only that, but does anyone realize that when minimum wage is increased for inflation, we have actually not seen an increase, meanwhile corporate profits have went up by around 120% since the 80s. What about the rising number of American families living beneath the poverty threshold (check the U.S. Census for this data). Don't even get me started on Bush's shitty education "reforms", his opposal of gay rights, his attempts to discontinue overtime pay, his ignoring the top environmental and atmospheric scientists, and the fact that the guy is borderline illiterate. I could deliver a speech 1000 times better than that moron, no wonder so many people in the world don't respect us.

We need a president who is not a corporate puppet, and frankly, neither Bush nor Kerry fall under this category. We are going to continue to live under corporate rule, with the poverty rate increasing, as CEOs continue to increase their already ridiculous amounts of income. We will always have war, because capitalism needs war.

We take advantage of underdeveloped countries for cheap labor, which hurts American jobs. Then we say "well, their governments should do somethine about it." Well, they have tried to.. we are actively involved in keeping underdeveloped countries that way. Just look into the Iran/Contra scandal that took place in the 80s, you'll see what happened when Nicaragua tried to set up a representative government that offered civil rights and labor reforms (along with many other badly needed changes). You conservatives are so ridiculous with your backwards logic 'We haven't seen another terrorist attack since 9/11" well.. before September 11, 2001, when was the last terrorist attack on American soil? Looks like it was quite a ways before that. By that logic, I could say Clinton protected us from terrorist attacks on US soil.

Don't believe all the bullshit you hear in campaign ads. Check info from both sides, check info from non-partisan groups, and stop trying to motivate people to vote out of fear. In closing I would like to say... Ralph Nader president.

Posted by: me at November 1, 2004 11:15 AM

Those were some intelligent remarks! NOT

Posted by: karen at November 1, 2004 11:25 AM

Those were some intelligent remarks! NOT

Posted by: karen at November 1, 2004 11:25 AM

Ralph Nader? Certainly you jest. You had a semblence of credibility up to that point.

Posted by: you at November 1, 2004 11:29 AM

Let us all pray to God for a strong Kerry victory to deliver us from the evil, lies, and corporate greed of the Bush administration. May God help Kerry end this unjust war for oil and bring our children safely home.

Posted by: Jeff at November 1, 2004 11:33 AM

Clinton didn't protect us from anything. He was the reason we were left weak. He depleted our military and when they tried to hand Osama over to him, he didn't take that chance.

Posted by: karen at November 1, 2004 11:37 AM

Kerry will turn over our troops to the enemy just like in Viet Nam.

Posted by: karen at November 1, 2004 11:39 AM

Nice to se you remembered BinLaden

Posted by: Kermit at November 1, 2004 11:52 AM

God Bless America, George Bush and Dick Cheney

Posted by: art at November 1, 2004 11:53 AM

"I think that if we had a country as fervent about peace and prosperity as they are about war, more women would be less afraid to give birth."

So their response it to burn the skin off their unborn, or pierce their skulls and suck out their brains, dismember them, since these moms-to-be are afraid of raising their children in a hostile world?? Better to kill the babies violently now, than risk something less than perfect happening to them? Yeah, right. Fear of a lack of peace and prosperity makes them do it.

Posted by: dee at November 1, 2004 11:56 AM

All those things happened while Bush was in charge. I doubt he can prevent them from happening - he is attracting them!

Vote for Bush - and and freedom will be but a memory.

Posted by: nomad at November 1, 2004 11:57 AM

"Of course the people don't want war. But after all, it's the leaders of the country who determine the policy, and it's always a simple matter to drag the people along whether it's a democracy, a fascist dictatorship, or a parliament, or a communist dictatorship. Voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is tell them they are being attacked, and denounce the pacifists for lack of patriotism, and exposing the country to greater danger."

-- Herman Goering at the Nuremberg trials

Posted by: Chris at November 1, 2004 12:03 PM

"Of course the people don't want war. But after all, it's the leaders of the country who determine the policy, and it's always a simple matter to drag the people along whether it's a democracy, a fascist dictatorship, or a parliament, or a communist dictatorship. Voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is tell them they are being attacked, and denounce the pacifists for lack of patriotism, and exposing the country to greater danger."

-- Herman Goering at the Nuremberg trials

Posted by: Chris at November 1, 2004 12:04 PM

God Bless President George W. Bush who 75% of our men and women in uniform support and 78% of all Christians !!!!!!

Posted by: D. Poe at November 1, 2004 12:04 PM

God Bless President George W. Bush who 75% of our men and women in uniform support and 78% of all Christians !!!!!!

Posted by: D. Poe at November 1, 2004 12:05 PM

I am a Vietnam Era veteran. That is, by the grace of the good lord, I did not actually spend my active duty time in Vietnam. I was, instead, sent to Europe. But, never-the-less, I was spit on and called a facist and baby-killer by those of the liberal ilk during that time. I have never forgotted it, nor has the pain or the distress gone away. But, after the first Gulf war and the way our GI's were treated by a grateful nation, I have healed some - until now. Every time one of these dirty, deceitful left-wing nut jobs writes his or her loathing comments and defiles our nation and it's great president, I can feel the saliva hitting me all over again. Pay that you do not cross my path!!! VOTE BUSH!

Posted by: Lon at November 1, 2004 12:07 PM

I am a Vietnam Era veteran. That is, by the grace of the good lord, I did not actually spend my active duty time in Vietnam. I was, instead, sent to Europe. But, never-the-less, I was spit on and called a facist and baby-killer by those of the liberal ilk during that time. I have never forgotted it, nor has the pain or the distress gone away. But, after the first Gulf war and the way our GI's were treated by a grateful nation, I have healed some - until now. Every time one of these dirty, deceitful left-wing nut jobs writes his or her loathing comments and defiles our nation and it's great president, I can feel the saliva hitting me all over again. Pray that you do not cross my path!!! VOTE BUSH!

Posted by: Lon at November 1, 2004 12:09 PM

Hey Nomad - don't look now buddy, but it's already gone - and they didn't just happen while Bush was in charge - been going on for 40+ years, maybe more - the govt used the Red Threat to justify taking some rights ... then used the drug war to take more rights ... then used 9/11 to take even more .... founding fathers are spinning in their graves like props on a p-51 mustang .... we are under so much more oppression now than they were when they revolted, they'd probably slap the cr*p out of us for pretending we're 'free'

Posted by: you again at November 1, 2004 12:13 PM

So true, you again!

Posted by: nomad at November 1, 2004 12:19 PM

Funny, there's not one picture of OSAMA in there. Lots of pictures of 9/11, but not ONE of OSAMA. How convenient. Or was it just an oversight? Wasn't OSAMA the guy who attacked us and killed 3000 Americans? Wasn't it OSAMA who just proudly proclaimed responsibility?

Three years later, WHERE'S OSAMA?

Oh yeah, and who was president when 9/11 happened? Oh but that's right, Bush said his thinking "changed" on 9/11 and the world "changed" on 9/11. But Richard Clarke's thinking didn't change. Neither did Sandy Berger. They'd both warned Bush with their "hair on fire." Ah, but finally after 3000 deaths, Bush "changed." Thank God Dubya was there to change his mind!

Oh yeah, and those head-cutters are in IRAQ. But they wouldn't be there if we hadn't invaded, now would they? All those victims would still be alive -- as would 100,000 innocent civilians.

100,000.

100,000 men women and children DEAD since George Bush went after nonexistent WMD.

As the Guinness boys would say: BRILLIANT!!

Posted by: MaxMan at November 1, 2004 12:24 PM

God Bless Our Troops and God Bless AMERICA

Posted by: Richard Jenkins at November 1, 2004 12:47 PM

God Bless Our Troops and God Bless AMERICA

Posted by: Richard Jenkins at November 1, 2004 12:47 PM

Actually Maxman, you need to realize the warnings of these terrorist were before our current president. President Clinton had many warnings with the bombings on the cole, the embassies and the first WTC attack.

Nice try though.

I would rather vote for someone that has made these hard times better, than for someone who is always taking about his 3 purple hearts. The same purple heart that he threw away after he came back to war. This is the same guy who took a stand against his own country with communist China and Jane Fonda after the war. Hhmmm, make you wonder whos side he is on now.

Posted by: Firedawgs at November 1, 2004 12:54 PM

MaxMan, mind if I ask how you know the barbarians are in Iraq?

Posted by: David at November 1, 2004 12:55 PM

God Bless Our Troops and please don't let the 380 tons of explosives that Bush failed to secure explode near them.

God Bless Our Troops and please give them a sense of purpose even though Bush lied about the reasons for going to war.

God Bless Our Troops and please protect them from the terrorists that are newly inspired by Bin Laden who has not been stopped.

Posted by: Laura at November 1, 2004 12:58 PM

So Bush has had over three years no to capture Osama, and is not even close. We have no idea where he is now compared to three years ago. Why should we give this clown another 4 years to try to find him?

Posted by: Ted at November 1, 2004 12:59 PM

They talk about the 100,000 dead, but before we went over there Saddam was killing even more of his own. I suppose it's okay to look the other way, after all, what they do in their own country is their business. We kill more of our own unborn than they have killed over in Iraq. But that is called the right to choose! You can't have it both ways. These woman aren't afraid of bringing children into the world because of Bush, they are afraid to bring babies into the world because it means they may have a responsiblity.

Posted by: karen at November 1, 2004 1:04 PM

It's a pity that you didn't follow the format of this article (http://www.thenation.com/doc.mhtml?i=20041108&s=facts) entitled "100 Facts and 1 Opinion". As a Canadian, I read that and thought that I'd like to read a similar piece in favour of Bush. What you've got here is 1 opinion and no facts--not nearly as persuasive.

Posted by: Darren at November 1, 2004 1:10 PM

Laura - although I echo the safety issues of your prayer, I have to ask:

1) Wasn't it the troops responsible for guarding the weapons cache that 'lost' the explosives? Bush would have to be in a lot of places, all at the same time in order to bear the amount of responsibility that many of you think he should.

2) Why wasn't it 'lying' when Bill Clinton and Al Gore, and John Kerry, and Ted Kennedy said that Saddam was dangerous and had WMD all over the place nad he would USE them against us? Is it possible that a crippled intelligence network failed us?

3) You either believe that radical extremists are a threat or you don't - if you don't and they keep on killing people, as they were doing, aren't you being blind? And if you do, and they kill 3000 of your own civilians, do you just let it go? If you don't just forget it, you're going to have things not go right when you go after them - that is part of war, and most of life really. If you do just forget it - well, I don't think that would go over well with the public.

Was there really any way for any president to 'win' in this situation with everyone? I really can't see how. It's never happended before, and I doubt it will happen whether Kerry, Bush, or Krusty the Clown is in office.

Posted by: David at November 1, 2004 1:16 PM

Firedawgs - Clinton tried to assassinate Osama more than once. The bombing of the Cole resulted from the dereliction of duty by the Cole's crew, who had been warned to keep away any small craft. Bush did not retaliate for the Cole and refused the attacks on Afghan training camps that were urged by Clarke and others. Bush was specifically warned that Osama was going to attack in the US with hijacked planes.

As for Kerry "taking a stand against his own country," I, too took a stand against the Vietnam war at the same time -- a useless, pointless unwinnable war that dragged on for 3 more years and 30k more American deaths and HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of Vietnamese deaths. Kerry was a patriot, as were several US senators who supported him at the senate hearing.

The VN war was a MISTAKE, everybody KNEW it, and Kerry was outraged that US political leaders were STILL sending American kids in there as fodder for bullshit "peace with honor." What a crock; and you agreed with that? Do you think the VN war was not a mistake? Were you even alive back then to watch the daily casualty lists? Were you subject to draft or did you get a "daddy" deferment like warmonger Cheney whose plans didn't include the military? Did Nixon achieve peace with honor? And if not, you blame Kerry for that? Why do you think Johnson quit? He KNEW VN was not winnable and was a total waste; McNamara said so (too late). Nixon and Kissinger were war criminals who bombed illegally and whose hands are red with WASTED blood of brave soldiers who should only be called upon to PROTECT our country, not go on ridiculous adventures of ramming "democracy" down everybody's throats with B-52s.

What a sick tyrant Bush is. He has NO respect for American military -- having dodged even minimal duty during the draft. His boys Rumsfeld and counsel Gonzalez authorized torturing prisoners against the strenuous objection of Army JAGs and Pentagon attorneys, and the result was the Abu Ghraib stain on our military's earned reputation as the finest in the world. Those bstrds should be strung up.

Posted by: MaxMan at November 1, 2004 1:19 PM

If Kerry people could only see this and let it sink into their disgusting heads, then our victory would be overwhelming.

May God Bless our soldiers, our country and George Bush.

Posted by: Ruth E. Gagne at November 1, 2004 1:26 PM

If Kerry people could only see this and let it sink into their disgusting heads, then our victory would be overwhelming.

May God Bless our soldiers, our country and George Bush.

Posted by: Ruth E. Gagne at November 1, 2004 1:27 PM

It is unfortunate that so many need to be reminded. Thanks for taking a stand & remembering.

Posted by: Cindy at November 1, 2004 1:31 PM

The VN war was a tragedy on so many levels I wouldn't even know where to start. To say that JFK should have never allowed us to become involved, or that Johnson shouldn't have lied to the American people by saying that he wasn't ramping up forces when indeed he was, or that the military was allowed to actually try to win that war (which they were not) - all of it is indeed sick.

But you still don't take a stand against your country, causing great harm to those who are still there by hurling accusations against all they were perhaps committed by only a handful. I think calling Mr. Kerry a "patriot" is probably stepping over the line by quite a margin. I have many friends, current military and veteran, who are amazed by a man who claims 3 purple hearts, one bronze star, and one silver star, in a four month active duty campaign - they say it is "impossible". Does anyone know about that? I never studied the book long enough to determine the requirements, so I can't speak to it, but I have to admit it seems unlikely.

And by the way, all those guys, and many, many more, are still war criminals. Some would say Bill Clinton is too.

Posted by: David at November 1, 2004 1:37 PM

karen, it is you who can't have it both ways. Bush would NEVER have gotten authority from the US people or from congress to attack and occupy Iraq due to Saddam's crimes against his own people. And rightly so. It was the phony stories of WMD, mushroom clouds, yellowcake, aluminum tubes, and Atta meeting with Saddam's agent. It was all a lie to frighten the American people and Bush should go down for it, whether you think WMD was just an "intelligence error" or deliberate deceit.

Posted by: MaxMan at November 1, 2004 1:39 PM

"But you still don't take a stand against your country." It is our DUTY as citizens to take a stand and BE RESPONSIBLE for the actions of our own government. Nixon wasn't King. Ours is government By For and OF The People, after all, isn't it? Who the hll are you to say that a decorated soldier has no right to oppose his government's war policies? To keep silent in the face of wasted blood because of some kind of pseudo-patriotism-love-it-or-leave-it is disgraceful and un-American.

Posted by: MaxMan at November 1, 2004 1:46 PM

Babble of the right wing nuts. This site is a nightmare of sad incoherence, simplistic jargon and good ole boy homespun patriotic fervour. You are the biggest threat to the world, and the monkey you cheated to get to be president is about to be sent back to the Texas zoo. Trouble is, you people never ever learn anything because you have short attention spans and comfortable lives that lull you into obese torpor and you won't wake up again until something else goes bang in your trough.

Posted by: Piet at November 1, 2004 1:48 PM

These pictures evoke strong emotions no doubt. The soldiers look cute.

But how do they endorse Bush I fail to see. Iraq has spawned more killings, more terrorists and let loose HDX and RDX. These are facts. 10,000 Iraqi civilians have died.

This piece reflects an alternate reality that is widely accepted, no doubt. I am glad that I am not from the US and can see it for what it is.

Posted by: abc at November 1, 2004 1:59 PM

Okay MaxMan - you've got all the answers - sorry I tried to ask a few questions of you. Have a great evening - maybe tomorrow you can carry on an intelligent discourse without becoming all p!ssed off and spewing on everyone.

Posted by: David at November 1, 2004 2:01 PM

Seems like a couple posts now have stated that they don't see how this site endorses Bush - look at this way: The images are of terrorists, the buildings in New York being bombed, babies being brought up to think it's their life mission to die for Allah by killing Americans and Jews, and those sort of things. To the average Joe, this is going to say, in essence "those guys attacked us and did this to our brothers and sisters in America, and we believe we are justified in going out, finding them, and depriving them of their lives."

Unless I missed the point.

Posted by: you again at November 1, 2004 2:24 PM

The assumption that these events, that this America can't derive support from any other than bush is incredibly misguided. The freedoms we have are hardwon by both the left & the right. Your photos have an impact on me, I'm voting for Kerry and an end to the shameful work of the current administration.

Posted by: Laura Bush at November 1, 2004 2:26 PM

A tip of my finger to you, sir.

Your fear-mongering paraded around as righteousness is truly misguided, if not asinine.

We've sure killed more children in Iraq than anyone.
Those mass graves? Kurds who rose up against Saddam, egged on by Bush Sr., who stood by as they were slaughtered.

And, oh yeah: IRAQ HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH 9/11!

Posted by: Informed Christian at November 1, 2004 2:39 PM

Our soldiers are supportive of Bush. He doesn't wait to put his finger in the air and see what direction the wind blows before making a decision. God help us if Kerry actually does win this!

Posted by: Ron at November 1, 2004 2:41 PM

you posted a lot of pictures of a lot of horrible things happening and said you're voting to keep them from happening. but did you notice how many of the horrible events depicted in those pictures HAPPENED UNDER GEORGE W. BUSH'S WATCH?!

wake up — he's not protecting you

Posted by: clark at November 1, 2004 2:47 PM

An earnest question Clark: are you saying that they never would have happened if Bush wasn't president?


Didn't think so.

Posted by: David at November 1, 2004 2:51 PM

I'm in touch with many of our soldiers that are overseas. My own cousin is in special ops and a snyper. You may see some bad and some good in these photo's, but you don't hear of all of all the good that is going on there. All we hear of is the negative. Since Saddam has been ousted there have been more hospitals and schools opened and re-opened than ever before. There have been more bridges made by US and co-forces that are now is use today then ever effectively allowing the good people under a terrorist regime to get to other areas than ever before. You can think of all the bad you want and keep your focus, but until you see all the good that has come from Saddam's fall alone you only have 1/2 the picture. Wake up America! They don't show good stuff on 20/20. Support your president with all you have because they will send more planes into buildings if Kerry is elected. And I won't even get into his foolish health care plans...

Posted by: Ron at November 1, 2004 2:58 PM

I think you've certainly made the case that Bush fails to protect this country at an ever increasing rate, fails to breed confidence in the American economy and fails to provide a leader in a time of danger for the US. Vote Kerry for a stronger America.

Posted by: Charlie at November 1, 2004 3:03 PM

This was the worst argument yet! How is bloodshed justification for giving Bush a second term? How can you say killing innocent Iraqis is in anyway a tribute to our deceased? How can you say a "war" (it is actually a conflict, not a war, war is declared by Congress and this was not) will help to end terrorism? If you honestly believe there is an end to terrorism then you are the most naive person alive. The soldiers will come home eventually, but how many do we have to kill first? And for what? This conflict was started on false pretenses when in all actuality it was over oil. And who gets a good percentage of the wealth from oil sales ... hmm.. yea it is Dick Cheney. I want a president who will negotiate. I want a president who will actually send soldiers as a last resort as was promised by the war mongering GW himself. I want a president who actually stands by his word to reform healthcare and education. I want a president who can separate church from state. I want a president who will think about the consequences of banning abortion. I want a president who want deny or change the constitutional rights of citizens. And I want to be associated with a party that does not block black or gay votes and that doesn't tear up voter registrations or use trickery to get them to register as republicans. And don't say I am not patriotic. I stand by the soldiers because they are already there. Plus, the meaning of being patriotic is standing up and defending our country. I am standing up and I am defending our country from another four years of absolute hell.

Posted by: Nicole at November 1, 2004 3:04 PM

4 years of hell... I can only imagine what 4 years of Kerry would be like. You think this is hell? He is the fire eternal. Why don't you do the Kerry thing and conduct a poll, then tell me how you feel. Because that's how he will decide what side he's on. Kerry is biggest flip flop going, just no foot to match it too... Why doesn't he just go put himself in for another medal like the others he wrote up for himself - yes - he was the one who wrote himself in for those medals - some valor - some leader... go to vietnam, come back and preach against it, then appear on the cover of a soldier mag with the flag upside down... real patriotic - a real leader... we get him and we are all screwed... and then I'll be sure to thank all you Kerry supporters - you all would be better off as jock supporters...

Posted by: Ron at November 1, 2004 3:18 PM

I agree with Informed Christian. I am also a Christian who does not support George W. It is stupid to think that because he claims to be a Christian we are obligated to vote for him. Look into the hypocrisy of his actions and judge what kind of a leader he has been. I really like how nobody had any intelligent remarks against my earlier posts... Nobody addressed the environmental issues I brought up, nor the rising poverty, nor the increase of corporate control in our government.

I particularly enjoy that someone said "Ralph Nader? Certainly you jest. You had a semblence of credibility up to that point." Why is this? Is it possibly that I am voting my conscience and not out of fear? Maybe they don't think the democrats and republicans have too much involvement with corporate interests? Maybe they don't think the rising poverty rate is a big deal?

There is always some "emergency" that is supposed to keep us from voting from who we really support. I would much rather see Kerry in office than Bush, but my ultimate preference is Ralph Nader, because he addresses those issues that neither candidate will touch. The people of this country need to break away from the corporate two-party tyranny and have the chance to hear ideas from independent candidates. We need campaign finance reform in order to restore a real sense of choice to the American people. We also need presidential debate reforms, to give independent candidates a better chance of being in the debates.

I have been posting comments at many conservative pages like this one for the past few weeks, and I have to say honestly, that the ones here are definitely not the smartest of the Republican party. I have actually had good discussions with some more intelligent conservatives on other sites, but here the typical response seems to be "If you don't vote Bush then you're a freedom hating commy... and possibly a terrorist." There is no real substance, logic, reasoning or critical thinking that has gone into any of the support for Bush on this site. I personally however do not see how a truly intelligent person could support Bush.... but I digress.

I mean let's think about the situation in Iraq for a second. Some very powerful country invades, destoys your cities and towns, not to mention kills many of your family and friends. All this in the name of "liberty." I do not think these people can understand how this could possibly be a better situation than the one they had before. Not to mention that it was the US who armed and empowered Saddam so he could fight the Iranians in the 80s. We supplied him with many biological and chemical weapons. Why would Iraqi citizens have any hope that American intervention is truly going to make anything better? When has it ever done so for any country in the mideast?

Wake up people! It is not patriotic to allow your government to use a national tragedy like September 11th to instill fear in us, and deceive us into invading a country that results in many more civilian deaths than we experienced. I am not trying to downplay the impact of 9/11... not at all.. but on the contrary.. when our government is responsible for that many innocent deaths. how can the Iraqi people see this as anything but terrorism? Sure we got Saddam out, but at what cost?

Here are some quotes that Republicans should think about:

A patriot must always be ready to defend his country against his government.
--- Edward Abbey

In a democracy dissent is an act of faith. Like medicine, the test of its value is not in its taste, but in its effects.
--- J. William Fulbrigh

Democracy cannot be forced upon a society, neither is it a gift that can be held forever. It has to be struggled hard for and defended everyday anew.
-- Heinz Galins

If...the machine of government...is of such a nature that it requires you to be the agent of injustice to another, then, I say, break the law.
--- Henry David Thoreau

"They that can give up essential liberty for a little safety deserve neither liberty nor safety," - Benjamin Franklin

"The President is merely the most important among a large number of public servants. He should be supported or opposed exactly to the degree which is warranted by his good conduct or bad conduct, his efficiency or inefficiency in rendering loyal, able, and disinterested service to the Nation as a whole. Therefore it is absolutely necessary that there should be full liberty to tell the truth about his acts, and this means that it is exactly necessary to blame him when he does wrong as to praise him when he does right. Any other attitude in an American citizen is both base and servile. To announce that there must be no criticism of the President, or that we are to stand by the President, right or wrong, is not only unpatriotic and servile, but is morally treasonable to the American public. Nothing but the truth should be spoken about him or any one else. But it is even more important to tell the truth, pleasant or unpleasant, about him than about any one else." - Theodore Roosevelt.


Now, I do not form the basis for my political beliefs on personal quotes, but it is interesting to hear what so many patriotic people of the past thought about democracy. It should give you something to think about. That's all.. good day!

Posted by: me at November 1, 2004 3:42 PM

Okay so I read through all of the prior posts and here is my follow up. I am an accounting and marketing major and I am a Christian democrat. I am pro-life and anti-gun. For all of you who believe that democrats are atheists you are grossly misled. We should, as AngelsAmazon noted, remember that our ancestors came over here and fought for religious freedom so what gives someone the right to impose their beliefs on someone else? And then there are statistics! Statistics are not reliable, 78% of Christians voting for Bush? I don't think so. Where and who were they polling. Of course if you poll in the Bible Belt you will get a lot of ultra-conservative votes, but not if you poll Pennsylvania, New York, California, etc. (And for that person that said that God hates liberals, I want to know what version of the bible you are reading because as far as i know God does not hate anyone. You can hate the sin, but not the sinner but being liberal is definitely not a sin, it is smart) Moving on - "safe" - I do not feel any less safe then I did before September 11th. I felt sad and I wanted to help out the families who lost loved ones, but in no way did I ever feel threatened. I do recognize the fact that Bush cannot handle foreign diplomatic duties and that this may cause some interior conflict down the road, but that will be fixed when Kerry remends the situation. Kerry as a traitor - that is like comparing him to a Nazi soldier - neither men knew what they were fighting for or against, they just knew they had to do it - after they were done they were sickened and had to do something about it. Yes they were wrong in fighting in the first place, but at the time they had no idea what was truly wrong or right. While I am on this subject I will talk about flip-flopping. This ties in because Kerry was like us, he believed the president was being honest in his justification for the war. Then he began to realize that was not the case. Look at the facts before you condemn someone for changing their mind. At least he had the decency to try to rectify the misdeed. And Bush has flip-flopped on issues as well. Banning guns - if you are naive enough to believe that democrats can abolish the right to bear weapons you are a complete and total idiot. Kerry, as do I, supports stricter gun laws. He will not try to ban hunting rifles or hand guns. He just wants to make sure that the guns are going to people who will potentially use them right and for the right purposes. And I do not believe that saying that guns don't kill, people do because I am sorry when a child gets a hold of her parents' gun it is not because she wants to kill it is because she is fascinated, and then an accident happens. You can lock them in a safe but combinations are easy to figure out, that has been tested and proven. Scare tactics - Bush's whole campaign has been based on scare tactics, how does that make him an effective president? Cheney said that a vote for Kerry will kill us all... he said that if Kerry is elected then we are guaranteed to be killed by terrorists. Is that because he will lead it? That is the only way that will happen and I honestly wouldn't put it passed him. SENATE VOTING RECORD - my favorite subject - I hate when this is brought up because all it proves to me is that there is something wrong with Congress and that is desperately needs reformed. I know Kerry is not the only Senator who has missed votes. Bush would have too if he were a senator so this issue should be considered dead. 9/11 - my only statement - NO ONE COULD HAVE PREVENTED 9/11! If suicidal maniacs are on a mission they will succeed! - BUSH IS NOT INTELLIGENT - saying he scored high on the military entrace exam proves nothing, I scored highly on military exams as well, but at least I can spell and speak grammatically correct. And when I speak I actually know what I am talking about. That is all for now. In the rephrased words of George Orwell: God bless you all, but some more than others.

Posted by: Nicole at November 1, 2004 4:19 PM

As a proud sister of an Iraqi Freedom vet, I thank you for your powerful post. Everyone needs to see and remember. I am often moved to tears, especially since my brother left and returned from Baghdad unharmed. My heart aches for those whose loved ones will never return. And at the thought of my babies facing the same fears we face today. God Bless You and God Bless America.

Jennifer in Des Moines, Iowa

Posted by: Jennifer Hauschildt at November 1, 2004 4:38 PM

Why is everyone so focused on TODAY? I commend Bush on his efforts to rid the world of terrorists! Maybe there were WMD or maybe there wasn't. Saddam was a threat today, and if left alone he would of been a much bigger threat 10 years from now (to include his sons). The only difference, if left alone, he would have caused more havoc! Try looking at the big picture and think years down the road and not just about today.

I served 8 years on active duty in the Marine Corps (0331), was in Desert Storm from Dec '90 to Jun '91 and I would do it all over again! I only wish we could have done back then what they are doing now and continued on from Kuwait City to downtown Baghdad. Then we wouldn't be having this silly conversation.

Semper Fi! God bless America and all she stands for!

Posted by: Scott in St Paul, MN at November 1, 2004 5:00 PM

Pray that more people wake up before it's too late and keep Bush as President.

Posted by: Jim Soltis at November 1, 2004 5:01 PM

We ARE at war, whether people want to admit it or not, and changing presidents during a war could show just how weak we really are. I don't think we need to show the terrorists and the other countries of the world that side of America. God knows we have enough terrorism with our minorities "do-gooders" right here at home, without inviting more terrorism in.
God bless the President and may God keep America free. We will prevail over the evil doers in the long run. Vic Shepherd of Webster, WI

Posted by: Vic Shepherd at November 1, 2004 5:07 PM

Thank you.
Gerald L Smith
Col. USAR, Ret.

Posted by: Gerald L Smith at November 1, 2004 5:38 PM

ok, really good but not necissary to but the mans head who got beheaded in their. Yes, I love George Bush, and I'm glad whoever made this site, but please don't include that next time. It is a very sad and unfortunate thing and I wish his family and everoyne elses family who died much sympathy. That man for fighting for us in Iraq is amazing and he does not deserve that. No one deserves something like that. Rest in Peace.

Posted by: Not named at November 1, 2004 6:14 PM

Let's flush the John's. Vote Bush.

Posted by: Not named at November 1, 2004 6:16 PM

To Nicoll,
I know as much as you know and you are wrong

Posted by: Helen at November 1, 2004 6:23 PM

What a bunch of wackos! Living in your delusional, paranoid little world, with terrorists around every corner (of your alleged brains).

All GWB has done is piss off the rest of the world, creating more hate than ever. Safer? Not because of anything that idiot has done.

Posted by: BobH at November 1, 2004 6:24 PM

The new Bush-Cheney Pledge of Allegiance-Right or wrong, It is not the individuals responsibility to reason why,but to do or die! Kim, A MEKONG DELTA VET

Posted by: kim dodds at November 1, 2004 6:31 PM

Tomorrow the American people with speak clearly. They have had enough of those who speak against this country, our military, our leaders and our values. Small people with small lives and hate filled agendas are about to feel the full weight of a people that have had enough of negativity, lawyers and Kerry! Shock and Awe is about to be unleashed upon the DNC...

Posted by: Steve at November 1, 2004 6:34 PM

That our soldiers like this keep flying and they come home soon with honor.

Doesn't have anything to do with who's in office. Soldiers, in general, do what they do with honour.

That this hero will not have died in vain, and that our victory means a birth of freedom for Iraq.

It'd be swell if he hadn't died in vain, that's for sure. Maybe it'll all work out, but attacking the wrong place with too few troops to keep order hardly seems like recipe for noble martyrs.

That men like this are hunted to the ends of the Earth and destroyed.

You kinda had to group Uday and Qusay in there, because Bush Inc. kind of forgot about Osama and went to Iraq instead, where there was no Al Qaeda presence. Bush himself said he wan't worried about Osama. Take a look:

http://www.moveonpac.org/debate3ad-QT.html

Anyway, sappy post, devoid of smarts and unattached to reality. Your guy seems to be the opposite of much of what you're asking for.

Posted by: Michael at November 1, 2004 6:52 PM

You are a fucking moron. I pity your children.

Posted by: dubya at November 1, 2004 6:54 PM

I thought Michael was quite reasonable. You should temper your language.

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 1, 2004 7:00 PM

I think dubya is giving a faithful rendition of a presidential response. There's nothing like satire to make a president look bad.

Posted by: Michael at November 1, 2004 7:05 PM

Let's keep in mind the most important aspect of this: I WILL NEVER ALLOW US TO RETURN TO THE DAYS OF BACK ALLEY ABORTIONS!!

Posted by: Barbara Boxer at November 1, 2004 7:09 PM

These pictures bring it all back instantly. Good piece.

Now my favorite poll for undecided voters;

Since 1956, Weekly Reader students in grades 1-12 have correctly picked the president


http://www.weeklyreader.com/election_vote.asp

Weekly Reader kids select Bush in Presidential Poll

The students who read Weekly Reader’s magazines have made their preference for President known: they want to send President Bush back to the White House.

The results of this year’s Weekly Reader poll have just been announced, and the winner is President Bush. Hundreds of thousands of students participated, giving the Republican President more than 60% of the votes cast and making him a decisive choice over Democratic Senator John Kerry.

Since 1956, Weekly Reader students in grades 1-12 have correctly picked the president, making the Weekly Reader poll one of the most accurate predictors of presidential outcomes in history.

Posted by: poll troll at November 1, 2004 7:31 PM

Thank God for George Bush. Amazing how many saw no need to go into Iraq. The Iraqi people are praying GWB is elected since they too know history and are very fearful of Kerry and his antiwar-cut and run stance. I lived through WWII and all the rest. There comes a time when we stand and fight those who do us harm and plan to do us harm. Terror camps with airplane body for terrorists to practice was in Iraq. We have killed less people than Saddam and the Iraqis are hungry for democracy. I think our country is so blessed in so many ways and I do not want to sit by and watch millions die while we do nothing. Afghani and Iraqi people thank the US.
GWB is not perfect but he has a moral core that is totally lacking in Kerry. The communists loved him because he swallowed their propaganda hook, line and sinker. I do not want a President who will pander to the corrupt UN. I have voted.
I must say this site brought out a couple of liberals who had civil arguments and for that I thank them since we will live in this country together. This has not been common in liberal commentaries on other blogs--so much vitriole, hate, name calling and profanity I began to wonder if there were any rational beings on the left that were capable of advancing their ideas with any degree of courtesy. The Dem leaders Ted, Al, Howard and Kerry have been hateful. I am an Independent of the FDR, TRUMAN and Zell Miller style with rare Repubs. This year, a straight R ticket.Kerry is not a good man.

Posted by: Pat in NC at November 1, 2004 7:39 PM

Quite an experience to live in fear, isn't it....

Those pictures served no purpose other than to re-ignite those fears.

If Bush wins, Fear will have won yet again...

Posted by: Ray at November 1, 2004 7:41 PM

Beautiful Site. What amazes me though is the lack of any inteligence from the people who hate George Bush. When a world leader offers $25,000 to every family for there son or daughter that offers to be a suicide bomber that strikes me as being terroristic. That alleged missing 380 tons of high explosives is the main detonation for "anyone, anyone" an nuclear weapon. They had everything to build themselves an nuclear weapon and the only thing missing was the nuclear material which they were actively seeking.

I will vote for someone who doesn't say anything or spews forth lies to be elected. Anytime you get an endoresment from Yasser Arafat, they aren't friends of the USA.

Posted by: James at November 1, 2004 7:57 PM

Helen... you got that backwards you are wrong. Plus a good argument is followed by a rebuttal, if you are not intelligent enough to form one then don't waste my time. But then again you can learn from our current president during the debates when he completely ignored the questions at hand and failed to come up with complete and articulate responses for anything.
And if really ticks me off when people are saying that democrats are speaking against our country and our values. What right does the (not so) Grand Old Party have to decide the values for all of the US? The last time I checked we had freedoms, freedom to choose, speak our minds, assemble, etc. I think it is about time that we realize this and realize that GW is trying to take away our constitutional rights. And if by some miracle he gets reelected he better not even try to amend the constitution so that Arnold can run in the next election.

Posted by: Nicole at November 1, 2004 7:59 PM

Absolutely, we hope that the soldiers return with honour from the Iraqi cesspool. Yes we hope that our soldiers keep flying and hopefully more safely than the poor National Guard grunts who try to protect their vehicles with plywood and sandbags. What NFL coach would send his players on the field without proper helmets. We hope our soldiers will fight with valour. They have to when their leader taunts the opposition to "bring it on". When was the last time Parcells taunted the Redskins defence to try and get his quarterback. Yes we want to hunt these men to the end of the earth. Who's running the hunt for Osama, the mgmt. of the New York Rangers? 175 billion dollars, over 30,000 coalition members killed as we have to include the Iraqis in that total as we were reminded by Big Dick Cheney, not to mention the thousands of our boys MAIMED FOR LIFE. The President hardly thinks of him anymore (AD Disorder Perhaps) yet Osama calmly rears his head again. Would you even hire W to get rid of a squirrel in your garage. Yes we want to keep the botoxins from our land. All of them, including the ones we sold Saddam in the 80's when he was our buddy, and the most advanced ones in the world that we continue to stockpile and develop daily. Yes, of course we hope that the American flag will be seen around the world, including draped on the 1000+ coffins that have been flown back to our country under cover of darkness under threat of firing for anyone who photographs them. Yes we want to expunge corrupt institutions from our soil; like a Bush government which touts an Education Bill leaving no child behind. Perhaps not leaving them behind in civilian life as the Bill had provisions that forced schools to provide all student data to the FBI. Expunge a Bush government which thwarted at every turn the 9-11 commission. Expunge a Pentagon heirarchy which gobbles up trillions of dollars and yet had less than a dozen planes guarding the East coast when there were heightened terrorist possibilities. Bill Parcells wrote that you coach better when you lose because you examine everything carefully, your staff, your offence, defence,special teams,training staff--everything. Before you vote it may be time to examine everything like Bill does. And for all you folks who feel safer with W, just consider what he has done on your southern border where thousands waltz in every week. Do you think prospective terrorists don't realize this. Let's just say that Bill wouldn't hire W on his staff. He knows a little bit about real success.

Posted by: W. Artkin at November 1, 2004 7:59 PM

this is absolutely frightening. so many of you are absolutely clueless as to how the war in Iraq has made us NOT safer. we sent a message to the world that fighting a war against a nation that has NEVER declared war against us is ok. and instead of applauding GWB for his behavior in making us safer becuase of 9/11, how about the fact we had not been attacked UNTIL he took office. the terrorists are not fighting us bc they hate our freedom, (if so, why not denmark? germany? france? australis?) it is bc of the man we put into office. as a side note, the iraqis don't like either kerry or bush, but 21% favor kerry and 17% favor bush with the rest saying neither would directly benefit them.

Posted by: julie at November 1, 2004 8:01 PM

That "alleged" missing 380 tons of high-power exposive isn't "Alleged".. it IS missing. Get your head out of the sand!

Another event that hasn't quite seen the light of day yet is the fact that Iraq's equivalent of our Center for Disease Control was also looted. Missing are vials of Black Plague, HIV, and numerous other viruses...

Safer? As Fox news would say "You get sick, you decide"

Posted by: ray at November 1, 2004 8:14 PM

When the new tape of OSB was broadcast, how many of you thought to yourself: "Why isn't he dead yet?"

Answer: GWB

Posted by: Ray at November 1, 2004 8:18 PM

I am posting once again, in hopes that I might encounter the ever-so-rare intelligent conservative. So far, with comments by Vic Shepherd and let's not forget Helen's thought-provoking comment of:
"To Nicoll, I know as much as you know and you are wrong."
Wow, I would hate to be Nicole right now. I mean, just look at all the flaws in Nicole's logic that Helen so elequently pointed out. Look people, any moron can just say "you're wrong, you're stupid, I don't agree with you." It seems like there are alot of children attempting to engage in an adult discussion, with a "my dad can beat up your dad" mentality.

I esepecially liked the comment.. "Let's flush the Johns." Simply incredible. I would have never thought of using a bumper sticker slogan to use as a rebuttal against intelligent, well-thought out reasons why people don't want Bush re-elected. I will run through much of what I believe again, and hope that there is at least one conservative who won't respond by telling me to move to France, or that I'm a "hippie", or something very childish like that.

It's time to face the facts Bush supporters. The man is a complete and utter moron. He is barely capable of articulating even the most basic sentences. He has changed his position on issues much more than John Kerry ever has (check www.factcehck.org to verify this statement). First we were going to war with Iraq because they had weapons of mass destruction and posed an imminent threat, though experts that were actually in Iraq thought contrary. After it was discovered that there were nor weapons of mass destruction, we then said we were removing a brutal regime. Okay, but what about the Sudan and Iran, these countries have far more human rights violations than Iraq (and we had verifiable proof that Iran has been actively seeking nuclear weapons).

Next, we were told that by spreading democracy, we would aid in the world-wide fight on terror. This is especially interesting, given that the US and Saudi Arabia have funded way more terrorist actions, and with greater impact, than the slight involvement Saddam Hussein had with Palestinian suicide bombers. I mean, we funded mercenaries that killed many civilians in Nicaragua in the 80s, and all so we could overthrow a democratic government that made grave reforms in labor, healthcare, civil rights, education and pretty much every other aspect of life.

It is not just our blatant hypocrosy that makes this an ineffective point. Do you really think it is the downtrodden and oppressed citizens of a brutal government that sponsor terrorism? Last I check, the Taliban were the ones in charge in Afghanistan when 9/11 occurred. I mean, does it really make sense that people who hate their own government would travel halfway across the world and pilot planes into the building of a country that had nothing to do with their oppression. The citizens of Afghanistan might have had something against the US though. The fact that we are resposible for the Taliban taking over Afghanistan in the first place, since we armed and funded them to fight Russia in the 80s. My point is though, that the terrorists on 9/11 were a part of the ruling body, not the people who were suffering under that regime.

Does anybody actually believe that we can invade another country and give them a democracy? I thought it was about being "for the people, by the people". When has another country come in and liberated another country and it has actually worked out as a democracy? If you say Afghanistan, I would say it is too early to see if that really works. Wait a few years, and we will see the results of the mounting instability in that country. We liberated ourselves from Brittain. We had aid from the French, but we welcomed it, and we were the ones who started the Revolutionary War. It wasn't like the French got the idea to liberate us, and came over here and defeated the Brittish, but left many of our civilians dead in the wake. That was not how it happened. But, that is what is happening in Iraq. Why the Iraqi people trust anyone that we "appoint" to rule over them, afterall, we thought Saddam was a great guy back when he was using the chemical and biological weapons we sold him to fight the Iranians. You have to understand where they come from, what their experiences have tought them. Every involvement the US has had with any country in the mideast has been about oil, and has not been good for the people. I mean, the UN sanctions that were imposed after the Gulf War caused the infant mortality rate to skyrocket, but did no stop Saddam Hussein in the least bit. Genius idea (it was a UN bill, but it was mostly supported and introduced by the US).

Before getting into office, Bush promised he the US would sign the Kyoto Protocol. He did not. His reason that it would hurt American business was an exaggerated and false claim. He cares more about pleasing the rich however, than he does about preserving our planet. He also said it should be up to the states to decide whether gay marriages should be allowed, but has since tried to create a nationwide contitutional ban on gay marriages. He wanted to allow a larger portion of mercury in our drinking water, as well as arsenic. Why would he do a thing like this? Because it was in the best interest of the corporations that were producing these emissions that they be allowed to emmit more harmful materials into our drinking water. On his website, he says if re-elected, he would put a cap on mercury emissions, the first president to do so. He didn't do shit for the environment in his four years he already had, so why would I trust him to do so if re-elected?

The number of polluted lakes that are now not swimmable, fishable, or drinkable has risen from 40% to 45% under Bush's environmental roll backs. His idea of giving factories that pollute "credits and debits" is one of the most absurd ideas to be passed as environmentally friendly. This would allow factories that are putting out less emissions than their limit to sell their leftover emissions rights to companies that have exceeded theirs. This means that the local people who live around such factories can expect more health hazards, contaminated drinking water, and unclean air. Doesn't anybody know that back in may the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released a study that estimated health care costs due to pollution to be in the tens of billions every year in the US alone. When are we going to say we've had enough? I don't know about you, but I like swimming in lakes, taking hikes, breathing clean air and having clean drinking water. Is this too much to ask?

Bush's assault on the environment does not end there. Instead of investing in new technologies that would make us no longer dependent on foreign oil, he suggests drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Preserve. Top environmental scientists agree that this would be an ecological disaster. It is because the oil companies want to stay in power, that they right new technologies such as hybird electric cars, and hydrogen fuel cell cars. We can't use oil forever people, it will eventually run our. What will we do then? If we do not start investing in technologies that do not use oil and especially not the emissions of today's cars, we will have a crisis on our hands, and it will be the American people's fault (though mostly the oil companies are to blame.)

No Child Left Behind is a ridiculous education psuedo reform. It places a greater emphasis on standardized tests, which we all know is the foundation to a great education. Every single educator that I know thinks this is the worst thing that could be done for education. We should teach our children critical thinking skills, reasoning and logic, not how to fill out "A, B, C or D" on a standardized test.

Bush is not interested in helping the working people of this country. His tax cuts that he brags about did not help the people that needed it the most. I do not know a single person who is poor and in need of a tax cut that actually got one. You can also check www.factcheck.org to see who really benefitted from this tax cut.

There is so much more I could say, but I am on the phone with my best friend right now, so I will end it now. I'm sure I will see many relevant and intelligent responses to my legitimate reasons why I do not support Bush. You can also check www.factcheck.org, and see how Dick Cheney opposed the same weapons funding that Kerry did, and also that the intelligence cut that Kerry suported was in 1994, before September 11th (the Bush/Cheney ad claims that after September 11th, Kerry voted to cut intelligence funding.) It also shows that Republicans also supported this intelligence spending cut, in fact, they supported cutting more from intelligence than John Kerry did. This website, which Dick Cheney endorsed in the vice-presidential debates (he mistakenly said factcheck.com) also gives evidence on how John Kerry is not a "flip-flopper." If you are brave enough to read these factual findings, I would urge you to do so. But beware, once you start actually thinking about your politics, you can never go back. Having said all this, I am not a supporter of Kerry, but of Ralph Nader. I just think that if you atack Kerry it should be for legitimate reasons (the website also clears up the Vietnam war accusations agains Kerry). Although I do not fully support Kerry, I am looking forward to him winning the election tomorrow, and I pray he will move this country in a better direction. Lord knows we need it.

Posted by: me at November 1, 2004 8:29 PM

Ya know PC; I encourage people of your kind to exercise their 1st Amendment right. You might be a republican, democrat, liberal, or communist. But one thing is for sure. When people like you open their mouths and speak nothing but a load of psycho-babble brainwashed diatribe, you are no better than the enemy you serve sir. Hence you are not a true patriot or an American. We need to know that you are the enemy within because when the day comes, and it will, you and your comrade’s sir will be the first to die as we rid our country from the vermin that you are.

Posted by: StanH at November 1, 2004 8:35 PM

Thank you "me." It is reassuring to know that some people actually think before they type.

Posted by: Nicole at November 1, 2004 8:36 PM

Poll troll has some ridiculous ideas. Does this person not realize the Washington Redskins thing that has been going on since 1933? Let me tell you about it.. Every election year in which the Redskins won their last home game, the incumbent's party won the election. Every election year that the Redskins lost however, the incumbent's party also lost. The Redskins lost, so according to this statistic that has been consistent since 1933, Kerry will win tomorrow. But, I do not take this too seriously, as it is only a statistic, and has no real correlation. So, we will see which statistic reigns supreme. I think it would be cool if they were both wrong and Nader won. Ha ha ha ha ha!

Posted by: me at November 1, 2004 8:39 PM

What is so interesting to me is that Vanderleun's post, without the context of him answering "why vote for Bush," could easily have been a part of a page advocating a Kerry victory.

If you believe, like Vanderleun, that these images clearly suggest that you should vote Bush then I believe you are mistaken. American's would not be so divided as they are now if it were otherwise. For example, you would not have anomalies like The Tampa Tribune not endorsing Bush if I weren't the case. The Tampa Tribune has endorsed Republican candidates since Eisenhower. Note: They did not endorse Kerry either.

Vanderleun et al, I invite you to examine this anomaly, if you haven't already, and hear what The Tampa Tribune has to say on the matter. Perhaps then you will realize that the images and captions you've given us do not invoke a Bush vote in everyone. It only invokes it for almost half of everyone, if that.

Read The Tampa Tribune's editorial here: http://www.tampatrib.com/News/MGBU3UEHF0E.html

I'm sorry Vanderleun but you have failed to bridge the gap. Look deeper.

Good show though.

Posted by: Walter at November 1, 2004 8:46 PM

Has Bush been to ANY of the funerals of the people whose pictures you posted?

Posted by: JD at November 1, 2004 8:49 PM

gentle readers...such hypocrisy. "values over words" you say...matthew 5:43. go read and let me know if you still have that gun in your hand. i visited manhattan's ground zero just last month. new yorker's feel the loss and pain of 9/11 a lot more than you people do, but they are voting for kerry. ask yourselves why. don't confuse 9/11 with iraq. they had nothing to do with each other. patriotism isn't about wearing flag pins and marching lock-step with the GOP. it's about freedom of choice. think!

Posted by: searing light at November 1, 2004 9:00 PM

Anyone with ANY common sense has to see through Kerry...when he came back from Vietnam he wronged his country and the Vets (every person I know who is from Vietnam will be voting for Bush) He continues to wrong his country and his fellow countrymen with his ridicoulous record in the Senate. Only an idiot would vote for the Dem Party.

Posted by: Pat at November 1, 2004 9:01 PM

The pictures are so touching, I dont understand how there can be people in this world that dont see it. I truly hope that there are enough people in America that see Kerry for the moronic jackass that he is. Bush may have made mistakes, but he is human and a true American. Kerry could only dream of being a fraction of the man that our president is. GOD BLESS AMERICA and all the people that lost their lives fighting for what we believe in or had their lives taken on our own soil.

Posted by: Gwen Young at November 1, 2004 9:15 PM

The pictures are so touching, I dont understand how there can be people in this world that dont see it. I truly hope that there are enough people in America that see Kerry for the moronic jackass that he is. Bush may have made mistakes, but he is human and a true American. Kerry could only dream of being a fraction of the man that our president is. GOD BLESS AMERICA and all the people that lost their lives fighting for what we believe in or had their lives taken on our own soil.

Posted by: Gwen at November 1, 2004 9:15 PM

We overestimate the power of the president and underestimate the responsibility of the citizen. One thing we should all remember, including myself: don't stop with your vote tomorrow. Continue your civic call to duty however that may be. Do something yourself to stop the hate illustrated above and keep the love also shown. Voting doesn't count. That's not enough. Don't let yourself off so easy. The winner tomorrow, no matter who it is, is not the answer to resolution of the hate and preservation of the love that is a suicuide bomber baby who has parents who love him...that is the pilot of a bomber or gunner of the tank whose family loves them....Be responsible and do something more than vote to WORK for the world you imagine.

Posted by: Ralph at November 1, 2004 9:25 PM

I love the way people post websites on here...... I mean if it is on the web it must be true... right....

Since so many others are doing it ....... here is a link

http://united-states-of-earth.com/article.asp?MenuID=3333

Talks about links between iraq/wmd

Posted by: another aussie at November 1, 2004 9:34 PM

I decided not to vote for only one reason is not up to George Bush or John Kerry to take one life for another.When only you see what they aloud you to,the people in Baghdad are dying in the name of who ? innocent man,woman and children are getting killed also. not all people in this countries are terrorist just few with a twisted mind just like any serial killer in the streets of America.I lost 5 members of my family on 9/11 and everybody seem to forget that only one person will reclaim the blood of all the innocent people,that had died in the name of the war or in the hands of terrorist.Remember always that is not George Bush or John Kerry .Is the greatest men that have live on Earth.... Jesus Christ and his Glorious Father Jehovah God.

Posted by: Maria at November 1, 2004 10:13 PM

OK "ME" let's discuss a few of the items that you brought up.

Environment- I find it amusing that you "Green Peacers" were so hoping that your movie "The Day After Tomorrow" would scare the crap out of all us and encourage all of us to go back and live in huts and eat only alfalfa plants. Then we end up having one of the coldest summers that we've had in about one hundred years (some cities set some new records!). Kind of killed your whole momentum- didn't it! The truth is that 98% of all of the waste released into the atmosphere are from NATURAL sources. Meaning we only affect 2% of the total. If we were to cut our total output by 50% we MIGHT decrease the average temperature of the planet by 1/20 th of 1 degree IN FIFTY YEARS!! (See Junk Science article) I do agree that we should continue to work on pollution- we've made some advances, but have a long way to go. We should do everything we can (within reason) to find alternate sources of energy as well. And your Kyoto Treaty is a total joke. It would absolutely destroy our economy. President Clinton knew it (that's why he didn't sign it!) and even the "unintelligent cowboy hick" George Dubyah was smart enough to realize it as well. If you've taken the time to look at it- it would cripple most of our businesses and do nothing to stop "developing" countries like China from polluting all of us to death. A friend of mine just got back from China and he said his eyes burned for the first 2 days he was there and he was never able to see more than 2 miles in any direction because of the pollution. The Kyoto treaty does nothing to stop or even slow them down. Estimates say that within 5-10 years they will be out polluting us!

Economy- Let's see you want to cap the polution, raise the wages, increase the benefits, tax them more, pay all health care costs, unionize everyone, make them hire more people, sell their products cheaper than the foreigners, eliminate tarrifs and duties, and penalize them for sending jobs overseas where none of these rules apply. I really hope you don't need a degree in business or economics to understand how ridiculously one-sided all of that is. There are some definite problems, but most of the problems with companies such as Enron are a direct result of changes made in the rules during the Clinton Administration (although both parties pushed for those changes- supporting your claim that corporations have way too much to do with our government- and I agree!!)

War in Iraq- In November of last year(after most of the major bombing was pretty well done) CNN did a poll in Iraq and 72% of the Iraqis wanted us there and were grateful for what we had done (granted CNN never showed us the results of that poll until February... why .... I don't know!) The military and their families have been polled and anywhere from 76-82% of them would vote for Bush over Kerry. So who exactly are you standing up for- the wealthy and formerly (or currently) powerful 28% in Iraq or who?? The Iraqi's are not afraid of the US military, but they are afraid to help us because those who do are typically killed by the insurgents. (Or as you would call them Freedom fighters- who are fighting for freedom from ummm freedom!?!) Have you looked at any of the election material that came out of Afghanistan- those people were willing to face death for the opportunity to, once in their lives (their countries life for that matter) to finally be heard as individuals. Can you imagine how discouraging it must be to these countries that we can't even hold a "fair" election??

As far as your comment on the "smarter"... I was recently reading an article in the Readers Digest about what the 2 parties typically look for in a Presidential candidate. Liberals tend to look for an intellectual. Are you aware that if we were to build statues to the two most intelligent presidents that we've ever had- we'd be loaded with statues of Bill Clinton and Richard Nixon- the only two presidents to be "impeached". Good thing that all that matters is intelligence.

Question for you.... It's so easy to rip apart any position (which is why Kerry still refuses to tell us what his plans are- a smart political move- you can't be attacked if you take no position) what would you do to solve the worlds ills? And please none of those theoretical mumbo jumbo- something that would actually work in the real world- with real people and real dynamics!!!

Thanks
Scott

Posted by: Scott at November 1, 2004 10:27 PM

George W. and Arab Terrorists have one disturbing thing in common...they both are driven by a single-minded desire that is determined solely by their vision of God. This is a dangerous proposition for both, for neither seems to have a desire to follow their own conscience but instead blame everything on what God tells them to do. It is all predicated by "Allah's Will"

This web page does a great job of appealing to the emotions of those who visit it… but three things really bug me about the *conclusions* that most of you folk are coming up with when you see these photos…

(1) We all agree that Sadam and his regime were terrible and they did terrible things. But there are many tyrants like him throughout the world doing equally terrible crimes against humanity. Is it the goal of the United States to hunt all of these people down and bring them to justice? Many of you seem to feel so happy that we have brought Iraq to justice… so why not go into Iran? North Korea? Why not help solve the terrible pain in Africa? What about forcing all other nations to give up their Nuclear Weapons… that would technically "make us safer"…. Why not *force* Russia's Putin to maintain a fair Democracy? Why not end Communist rule in China and Cuba?? While we are at it, why not "declare" all nations must establish English as the one spoken language… I think we all know that the answer is "because it would be plain WRONG."

(2) Many people (especially Republicans) argued that Bill Clinton should have resigned his presidency because of the Lewinsky scandal… they said that "if he is willing to lie about THAT, then he *might* lie about something more important… like GOING TO WAR…" Now here is George W. who DID stretch the truth in order to go to war… and the blind Republicans just don't see it.

(3) In my mind the WORST (most emotional) photos on this web page are the ones involving the decapitations… Guess what? Those decapitations would not have happened if George W. were not president… A president with a brain would have focused on surrounding and killing Bin Laden instead of spreading our troops out thinly and making them needlessly more vulnerable.

Answer me this: Would you rather have Iraq like it is today (and Sadam in jail)... or would you rather have Bin Laden's head on a pike? Which would have actually gained the USA MORE respect throughout the world? Which would actually have made you feel MORE safe?

Posted by: Physics at November 1, 2004 11:05 PM

Weapons of Mass Delusion my friend Vanderleun, your faith-based adherance to Bush is like a sad Chinese communist, blind to reason or understanding, following whatever Bush says. When he says "Jump!" you say "HOW HIGH!?" Pathetic.

Posted by: Eric at November 1, 2004 11:29 PM

Finally, an intelligent response. Thank you Scott... now it's time for me to tell you how you are wrong.

Posted by: me at November 1, 2004 11:39 PM

And it is still going on. It says: Your comment submission failed for the following reasons:

Your comment could not be submitted due to questionable content

Please correct the error in the form below, then press Post to post your comment.

I will try reloading the page.

Posted by: me at November 1, 2004 11:42 PM


In what part of my comment did I endorse the movie "The Day After Tomorrow"? I never saw the movie myself, and even though I know alot of environmental people supported this film, I did not really care about it either way. As for global warming, basic knowledge of climatology tells us that global warming does not mean the temperature will be consistently warmer everywhere on the planet. The warming of certain parts of the earth can alter weather in other parts of the world. Thus, this unusually cool summer could actually be very well attributed to global warming (not to mention the record number of hurricanes, which result from surface warming in the Carribean, Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico.) I realize that China is polluting like crazy, but that doesn't mean that we shouldn't do our part. As far as the causes for global warming, the fact is most atmospheric scientists agree that the majority cause has in fact been emissions from our factories. These natural causes of global warming have been around for thousands of years, yet it is only in the increased industrialization of the world that we have seen a departure from the earth's fairly consistent warming and cooling trends.

Posted by: me at November 1, 2004 11:45 PM

"That the American Flag will be seen around the world as it truly is -- the harbinger of freedom and the last, best hope of Earth."

How DARE you be so arrogant?

Posted by: JLP at November 1, 2004 11:49 PM

Scott,

I know this seems ridiculous, but it keeps telling me it can't post my comment because of "questionable content." Must be that damned USA Patriot Act, I'll probably receive a visit from the FBI tomorrow. In essence, I tried to say (in many, many words) that I am a _________, and I believe ultimately capitalism will fail, because the working people will eventually become fed up with the wealth distribution, and set up a more fair system. I think we need more choice than just Republican/Democrat, as they both seem equally greedy to me. I know it sounds like a cop-out, but I swear I had a very large comment I was trying to post (the previous post is a part of it) but it won't let me post it. I need to go to bed though, so I wish you a good day.

Posted by: me at November 1, 2004 11:53 PM

Scott,

I found out at least part of the reason why it would not let me post my comment, and it is because of the word that I intentionally left blank in my last post. The word is: s o c i a l i s t. I can't believe they will not allow me to post a comment with that word. They refer to it is "questionable material." What happened to free speech?

Posted by: me at November 1, 2004 11:57 PM

Humm, that is very strange, but it seems to be correct. The word s o c i a l ist is not being accepted by the system.

I say strange because the commenting system is protected from spam attacks by MT-blacklist. (Please believe me when I tell you that I see anywhere from 100 to 500 comment spam attacks a day here in the activity log.)

It's not a "them" thing, but a computer program thing. And the thing is that the program is only supposed to deny posting if a phrase in the content matches a word, phrase, or url on the list.

Now I've looked at the list, which is 2,438 items long and run a search against it and s o c i a l i s t isn't on it. If it was I'd take it off.

So why is it doing this? Hey, do I have my super-computer programmer t-shirt on? No. I don't know why and unless someone else can explain to me why I have no way of knowing.

But I'll look into it some more.

Sorry for the system to be so frustrating, but the only alternative is to sit around all day and weed out comment spam by hand.

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 2, 2004 12:12 AM

I am the very model of a modern major socialist...

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 2, 2004 12:18 AM

AH HA!

Oh, the irony. The rich, rich irony.

It would seem, Nick,that the system objected to your use of "cialis" with "socialist." A hard fact, I know, but I have instructed the system to ignore the fact that, these days, socialists need cialis to hold their philiosphy up.

You will pardon, I trust, my leetle joke at the expense of socialism. After all, it has played more than its share of leetle jokes on us over the years.

And now, back to the fist fights.....

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 2, 2004 12:23 AM

THANK YOU FOR YOUR HONESTY AND DEDICATION TO ACKNOWLEDGE THOSE THAT HAVE GIVEN SO MUCH TO SERVE OUR COUNTRY! I TOO BELIEVE IN THE INTEGRITY OF OUR PRESIDENT AND MANY THAT SERVE UNDER HIS ADMINISTRATION. I HAVE WRITTEN SOME POETRY ABOUT HIM AND OUR EXPERIENCE SINCE 911 THAT HAS SEEMED TO STRIKE A NERVE IN THOSE THAT HAVE READ IT! IF ANYONE WOULD BE INTERESTED IN READING IT YOU CAN REQUEST IT BY EMAIL FROM PEPPERFOX@MSN.COM THANKS AGAIN FOR YOUR CANDID PRESENTATION OF"50 REASONS TO VOTE FOR PRESIDENT BUSH!" MAY GOD BLESS YOUR EFFORTS TO REACH THE AMERICAN PEOPLE AS WELL AS THOSE WHOM ARE OBSERVING US THIS DAY OF THE ELECTIONS. MR BUSH CERTAINLY WILL GET MY VOTE AND MY WIFES VOTE!!! THANK YOU!!!!

Posted by: Richard A Johnson at November 2, 2004 3:19 AM

God Bless Our TROOPS & God Bless AMERICA

Posted by: Richard Jenkins at November 2, 2004 3:45 AM

Let each american realize that Bush is for nothing more than the prosperity of his corporate friends. He uses everything we hold dear as a carrot in front of our noses! God bless our troops by supporting a man who will bring our troops home quickly! Please vote KERRY / EDWARDS for a stronger america - ** I AM a registered Republican voter, and a patriot! I see a problem with our current government and its administration and will stand tall against it as a patriot would!!! Please, for your children giving their lives overseas, vote Kerry. Vote for someone who would not CUT their pay as your sons & daughters risk their lives!

Posted by: Adam Lawrence - a father - at November 2, 2004 4:23 AM

We Will Never Forget! God Bless America and It's Spirit of Freedom for All. With a grateful heart, we say "Thank You" to our men and women who are fighting the terrorists overseas so that we don't have to fight them here in America.

Posted by: Carmela DeNobile at November 2, 2004 4:50 AM

TO EVERYONE WHO SPOKE OUT! AND TO THE GREAT PERSON THAT STARTED THIS E-MAIL GOD BLESS YOU! AND TO THE NEGATIVE! FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD THEAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON THAT WHO SO EVER SHALL BELIEVE WILL NOT PARISH BUT HAVE EVER LASTING LIFE, FOR THE NEGATIVE YOU STILL HAVE A CHANCE! THATS WHAT'S SO WONDERFUL! IT WOULD BE AWFUL TO PUT ALL YOUR CARDS ON THE TABLE NOT ACKNOWLEDGING CHRIST AND THE BIBLE AND BURN IN HELL! THAT IS THE CHOICE YOU NEGATIVE PEOPLE NEED TO BE DECIDING ON! THE PRESIDENT IS THE LEAST OF YOUR WORRIES! AN ANGEL FOR THE LORD! GOD SPEED!

Posted by: ASHLIE FORD at November 2, 2004 6:07 AM

These are all very good reasons NOT to vote for Bush. From the time he took office until 9/11, he did NOTHING to prevent terrorism--not so much as even meeting with his head of counter-terrorism. He has NO plans for taking our soldiers--who are DYING everyday--out of Iraq with honor or otherwise. He has taken his eye off the ball on Osama bin Laden (what happened to dead or alive?). He has created a ripe environment for new terrorist cells to develop in the Middle East. He tells you things are going well as civilian Americans and allies are being beheaded. He tells you the Iraqis are happy to have us there when it isn't true. He ignores the TRULY dangerous powers such as Korea. Bush is a dangerous man who claims to be a Christian but lied to the American people repeatedly including to start a war of a his choosing, where we too killed babies.

Posted by: T Waren at November 2, 2004 6:19 AM

Who cares of a god? We're talking election and dirty politics!

Posted by: Man with brain at November 2, 2004 6:21 AM

George Bush IS A WOLF IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING. I wish the conservatives could see through him. Could see his true motives are selfish and not for the good of America. God help us all if he is re-elected! As for his religious side, he has changed his religious affiliation three times and I believe his strong beliefs are a farce to get re-elected. Remember, 911 happened on Bush's watch! Helen L.

Posted by: Helen L at November 2, 2004 6:22 AM

Normally I do not respond to messages of this nature. However, when I got to the pictures of the devastation on 9/11/2001, all of the emotion and anger came back to the surface.

As a child whose father survived Pearl Harbor, We should never ever forget the tragedy of 12/7/41 and the most recent tragedy of 9/11.

Posted by: schapman at November 2, 2004 6:27 AM

The world is praying that the playground bully, Georgie Bush, is resoundingly vote out of office and driven out of town on a rail. Let wisdom prevail!

Posted by: Exelsior at November 2, 2004 6:38 AM

You consent to the murder of those who are innocent , rather than submit and sacrifice everything in the name of Justice. I am not talking about your texas-walker-it-is-fun-kick-people's-ass-Justice. I am talking about the Truth.

I pray that you will see the truth, for if you do not, you will not only perish, but I fear, be forever maimed and tortured by the flames of whatever awaits your soul in the afterlife.

Though, you have some good intentions, such as preserving life, how can you advocate non-violence by adopting an attitude of violence.

In my reasoning, you a misguided, ignorant soul.

Every soul is capable of doing harm, good or misguided, though you, the misguided, are more willing to do harm.

(yes, there are innocent deaths, you like to call them "collatoral damage" or the eggs of your rotten omlette)

God gives me hope, the likes of which cannot be destroyed by small minded conservatives (or liberals).

May god watch down upon this country and forgive us for our hate/war-mongering.

Posted by: *shaking head in shame* at November 2, 2004 6:43 AM

Your all a bunch of Rednecks. Just because you vote Democrat, does not mean you are against the troops. You do not own 911. You are not real Republicans. I am against extremists, and Bush has hijacked the Republican party much as Bin Laden has hijacked Islam. Where has this Walmart, redneck mentality come from?

Posted by: Mike at November 2, 2004 6:44 AM

Mike:

Good luck to you with your surgery.

Posted by: Joe at November 2, 2004 6:55 AM

While your pictures paint a vivid reality, I hate to tell you that we have very simiilar battles being fought by our youth in American streets. Street violence is at a all time high, unemployment as well. What good does it do to fight a battle half way around the world when our country is falling apart economically?

Hopefully, after today we will be looking at the backs of Bush and his henchman Cheney as they beat a hasty retreat.

Misstina

Posted by: Justine Shelton at November 2, 2004 7:31 AM

fas-cism/ any movement, tendency, or ideology that favors dictatorial government, repression of all opposition, and extreme nationalism

dem-a-gogue/ a political leader who gains power by appealing to people's emotions and prejudices rather than their rationality

prop-a-gan-da/ information or publicity put out to spread and promote a policy, idea, doctrine, or cause

My thoughts on the 50 reasons? fascist demagogic propaganda.

I'm an elitist, liberal, intllectual Democratic, marginally-patriotic (I left my flag up for a year after 9/11...then it was time to take it down), leaning-toward-agnostic (and an Iowa farm girl, who, oddly, has been living in Utah's 'Happy Valley' for the last 5 years)...and damn proud of all (except the Happy Valley part...). Part of me actually would like to see Bush re-elected, so he can try to clean up the mess he has made and fall flat on his face(plus we can always hope for impeachment); the other part of me isn't guite sure I can handle another four years of the fascist demagogic propaganda.

Good job, "me" @ 0342PM on 11/1 for your quotes from Benjamin Franklin and Theodore Roosevelt... both intellectuals who summed it up correctly.

Posted by: Iowa at November 2, 2004 7:43 AM

"(I left my flag up for a year after 9/11...then it was time to take it down)"

At last I have a clear understanding of the the limits of patriotism. Thank you.

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 2, 2004 7:53 AM

Do your homework people. The United Nations is ineffective EXCLUSIVELY because the United States has made it that way.

The US is one of the cornerstone members of the U.N. and has systematically crippled the U.N.'s effectiveness and capability in the world. To call the U.N. "corrupt" is to call the U.S. corrupt, which may be accurate, but it's not the institution's fault; it's the primary fault of the number one vigilante participant: USA

Posted by: Wisdom at November 2, 2004 7:55 AM

Thank you "Wisdom"

Ah, yet another thing that is "America's fault." No doubt the evil US influence explains the consistent UN position on Isreal.

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 2, 2004 8:04 AM

I truly do not understand Pro Bush supporters at this stage of the game; I like most Americans looked to him after september 11th to lead our country. He could not have made a bad decision in my mind in the months after september 11th, he waited a patient 2 months before attacking Afganistan with the help of many countries. The world ran to our side, and looked to the U.S once again to lead as it has in the past.
That was 3 years ago, now we are losing friends and allies across the world. We are becoming an isolationist country. George W. Bush has taken the American flag and replaced it with his face. He is the most hated politician globally since Hitler (dont believe me, take a trip to Europe, Asia ect.)
In response to the picture essay designed to give you reason to vote for Bush, I say it is a travesty. Taking the grusome pictures of fallen soldiers and mutilated prisoners as some sort of compliment to the current leadership of our country makes me sick to the bone. You compliment a leader who aroagantly flew himself onto a Aircraft carrier and declared mission accomplished a year before some of those pictures were taken.
The ignorance of current Bush supporters drips from each comment and posting they make, some still believe Al Queda had connections with Iraq. Question my patriotism will you, because I stand up for the lives of members of my generation to not be used and lost to validate false promises and line the pockets of cowards with the blood stained money of thousands killed.
If Bush is re elected the worst is yet to come. Wake up America

Posted by: Dan at November 2, 2004 8:12 AM

George W. Bush has cloaked himself in the tragedy of 9/11 and all of you who support him are letting him get away with it. Neither candidate should benefit from evoking our emotions with images of that tragedy, least of all Bush who has said in a Press conference that he didn't know where Osama Bin Laden was and wasn't really worried about him. Those of you who support Bush have said yourselves that you are voting out of fear that we will have to fight terrorists on our own streets. Clearly, the Republican scare tactics have worked on you. John Kerry has said repeatly that he will hunt down and kill the terrorists in Afganistan. Noone has given any clear reason why we should not believe him. Bush has had over 3 years and he hasn't done it. What's he waiting for?

Posted by: SP at November 2, 2004 8:15 AM

Humm, I guess you just slept through or don't count the invasion, conquest, liberation, destruction of the Taliban, and recent elections in Afghanistan as proof enough. Seems to me that lots and lots of terrorists were killed there as well as elsewhere.

But I imagine you think that only one terrorist counts and that if you just get him all the rest will say "Oh well, game over" and go home.

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 2, 2004 8:21 AM

Have you been to Afganistan? have you seen their "free society"? The fact of the matter is any President after september 11th would have invaded Afganistan. It was the easiest decision possible. Not once have I questioned the liberation of the Afgan people. However you throw that in my face as the Bush trump card, the real crime was the invasion of Iraq and the lies and fear mongering that made it politically impossible for any member of congress or the senate to vote against it, or to ask the questions that truly need to be asked before we risked the lives of our military. I had the distinct honor of working for Republican congressman Amo Houghton who voted against the Iraq war he saw through the fear and the lies, why cant the rest of you.

Posted by: Dan at November 2, 2004 8:31 AM

And which of these "lots and lots of terrorists" that were killed masterminded 9/11? We have proof bin laden is alive and still running his terrorist network. Iraq is now one big recruitment poster for terrorists. The problem is bigger not smaller. So you consider Saddam's fall a victory despite the thousands of insurgents who remain loyal to him and are now killing American troops, but its ok to leave bin laden alone as long as we get a few of the people who worked for him?

Posted by: SP at November 2, 2004 8:42 AM

No, it's not ok. But in this world, you don't get to always "make the thing work right now."

And, Dan, we need Iraq for a lot of reasons. It wasn't a crime nor a lie, but a military necessity.

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 2, 2004 8:46 AM

Give me three reasons that Invading Iraq helped our standing in the world, our security at home and our ability to defeat a global network of terrorists.

Posted by: dan at November 2, 2004 8:49 AM

Thank you Sir for the 50 reasons, those pictures say it all.
I rather die fighting for freedom, that to live as a slave of terrorits. GOD BLESS AMERICA


Pedro

Posted by: Pedro Chavez at November 2, 2004 8:54 AM

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE ESSAY YOU POSTED ALL OF THE PICTURES REMIND US WHY WE ARE AT WAR AND THAT GOD DID GIVE US GEORGE BUSH TO LEAD US THROUGH

Posted by: CATHY at November 2, 2004 8:54 AM

Thank you Sir for the 50 reasons, those pictures say it all.
I rather die fighting for freedom, that to live as a slave of terrorits. GOD BLESS AMERICA


Pedro

Posted by: Pedro Chavez at November 2, 2004 8:55 AM

Reasons, Dan? Okay, here's a few:

American Digest: WHY WE ARE IN IRAQ : Military Bases Are A Requirement, Democracy is Merely an Elective.

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 2, 2004 9:01 AM

Thank you so much for your pictures. If a picture is worth 1000 words, your essay was worth more than a millon. I am so proud to be an American for Bush. Judi, Houston, Texas

Posted by: Judi Hall at November 2, 2004 9:05 AM

I'll play your sad little game, dan:

1. It made clear to those who wondered what we are willing to do to stop the spread of militant Islam and its supporters.

2. It put terrorists on the defensive, taking time away from their plans to spread terror to the US and elsewhere.

3. We've killed or incarcerated a lot of these people, and have concentrated the rest in a pretty small area, where we will kill or incarcerate even more. It's never been harder to be an Islamic terrorist.

I understand you want a perfect world. The problem is that it's not available to you, because life is not a choice between the world you live in and a perfect world. Your argument seems to be that since Bush's solution isn't the perfect one, we should get rid of him. But it's really a choice between his solution and doing nothing at all, which is what we were doing for years despite continuous calls from prominent Democrats to spring into action against Saddam before it was too late. If you think Kerry's desire to return to pre-9/11 mode and let the UN lead the way is a better solution than W's, you're deeply ignorant of history, recent and otherwise.

Don't be a petulant child about this stuff; start viewing the world in adult terms. You can either be mad about it or become part of a solution. You seem to have chosen the former.

Posted by: Uncle Mikey at November 2, 2004 9:07 AM

As an American of African descent, I view America in a slightly different light; many people are failing to remember their history....and are doomed to repeat their mistakes. If Bush is re-elected, the repeated disenfranchisement of ethnic minorities will continue. Note: African-Americans are the only segment of the population whose right to vote is NOT guaranteed by the Constitution.

People are also forgetting the legacy of the Bush family:

1) Prescott Bush sold oil and coal to the Nazis in WW2 - if any other Americans had done so, they'd be called TRAITORS.

2) George Herbert Walber Bush was Director of the CIA....and along with J. Edgar Hoover and the FBI, presided over the mass importation of drugs into ethnic minority neighborhoods (or has anyone forgotten Air America in Vietnam?).

3) Neil Bush, along with Charles Keating, STOLE $2 BILLION from the American taxpayer in the S&L scandal -- and Bush 41 pardoned Neil (a "get out of jail free card").

4) John Ellis Bush (Jeb for those who don't know) presided over the disenfranchisement of over 56,000 African American voters in Florida in 2000 so that his brother could be selected by the Supreme Court that Bush 41 put in place.

5) Over 25,000 African American voters were disenfranchised in Missouri

6) Republicans in Michigan, Florida, Georgia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania have PUBLICALLY stated that they MUST SUPPRESS the African American vote in ourder to ensure victory....and further disenfranchisements are ongoing in Florida....when Jeb sent the Florida State Patrol into Orlando to intimidate elderly African American voter.

Economically, the Bushes desire low paying jobs for minorities, and pass tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans. Because of Republican policies, I've lost my job three times, and have lost an aggregate earning capability of $50,000!!

The War in Iraq was simple retribution to Saddam by Dubya for threatening his father; the REAL terrorist, Usama bin Laden, has yet to be caught....because the Bushes are beholding to the Saudis for their continued wealth. If the troops are dying in vain, it is because the strategy was very ill-conceived. I have a son who is presently stationed near Baghdad; he should NOT be there. For those who are myopic, Bush would be your choice; for those who can see all of the preiphery, Bush can NOT....and SHOULD NOT BE REELECTED!!

Posted by: HDBrown at November 2, 2004 9:15 AM

Disgusting.
Pictures of 9/11 to scare people.
Can't you at least make a rational argument instead of these pictures?
None of these photo's talk about Bush or Kerry's plans.
This is not dicussion this is a bunch of pictures to scare you.
Try saying your points with text so we can have a real conversation.
Every photo tells me to get rid of bush anyway.

Posted by: michael at November 2, 2004 9:40 AM

Hey Dan,
1) Other countries know when the USA says it will do something we mean it.(because pushing paperwork back and forth in the UN is meaningless)
2) Oil for food program, countries leaders are corrupt and now being exposed. I think these countries citizens and us would want to put honest problem solvers in place where worldly issues are supposed to be dealt with.
3) And with George Bush as Commander-in-Chief they all know now DON'T MESS WITH THE U.S.!!!!
To me this is just the tip of the iceberg in how being pro-active about protecting innocent people is helping all of us. And if the U.S. picks Kerry I'll be right on board with him so long as he realizes doing nothing and not everything you can to defeat terrorism anywhere it grows like a cancer is dangerous to all of us.
Take care and thanks for listening.

Posted by: tara flanagan at November 2, 2004 9:41 AM

Stop giving Dan bullshit answers. In no way is the war in Iraq telling anyone not to mess with the US. All it says is that we are a country on a hasty power trip. We have accomplished nothing over there if you really look at the situation. Killing people in no way constitutes success. I'd rather see someone with dimplomatic skills then a gun-toting idiot on a rampage taking care of what needs to be done. And if you still believe that it was necessary to go to Iraq then maybe you should be over there fighting the good fight. War just causes more devastation, why can't anyone see that? The "war" may have killed off some terrorists and some potential ones, but they are radical people. Killing one just causes more fury and they will come back stronger than ever. And I honestly believe that these men are very intelligent beings. They aren't going to rush into any attempt, they are going to plan it out well so that they accomplish what they sought out for.

Posted by: Nicole at November 2, 2004 9:50 AM

Born in a liberal country of Sweden with: High teenage suicides, enormous taxes, big brother mentality, militant feminists, gay marriges, a joke of justice system where a murderer gets a few years in a 5 star "hotel standard prison", radical enviromentals, anti christ movements, world records in divorce, and the lowest marrige rate in any country. This is also the country whee children rules, where there is no respect for parents, teachers, or even the country..
Lets say you obey all laws and want to practize gun sports... well good luck in Sweden, They want to implement gun restrictions and licence on sling shots, knifes and a cross bow is not something you can buy without licence..

Do I want to live a liberal life? The answer is no, I am proud that my children can grow up to be Americans. I am proud to have served US Army and I am proud to have G.W Bush as President

Stefan Larsson
Iowa

Posted by: Stefan at November 2, 2004 9:56 AM

I appreciate the pictures. Although we do not have to be reminded of any of the 9/11 events. Each picture makes me sad. Does that mean I shouldn't look at them? NO!

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. I honestly don't know which of the candidates would be best for the job at hand. I voted for the person that God lead me to vote for. There is so much good as well as bad in both of these candidates. I wish that someone would step up to the plate and make honest decisions that would be good for our great country. I haven't seen that happen in any of my adult years. They are all condemming of each other until they need one of them to be their running partner. Why can't they say what they can offer to their country rather than what their opponent can not offer.

I hate the thought of all of our men and women fighting in that strange country. How said it must be for each of them as well as their families. Neither of them have been forced to do so. Each person over there offered to fight for their country! President Bush has not made any of these decisions all by himself.

Voted for Bush

Posted by: Robin at November 2, 2004 10:09 AM

Another Vietnam I think not!!!
It's time Bush was gone tho I doubt that Kerry will be able to end it any sooner. 4 more years of Bush economics and were in real trouble.

Posted by: rohug at November 2, 2004 10:12 AM

Well then get used to disappointment.

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 2, 2004 10:15 AM

Bush Caused 9/11 and is thriving in the following chaos, Skulls & Bones = W. A. R.

education+awareness=TRUTH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

vote for a real American.

Anyone but babykiller BUSH~SHIT.

Posted by: the scholar at November 2, 2004 10:35 AM

Mr. President Bush, The whole Walker family is behind you and we support you. Keep up the job you are doing for us and I know God will bless you and your family. We are here for you.

Posted by: Dolores Walker at November 2, 2004 10:40 AM

God .... why do Bush supporters all seem to cite God, wasnt it Jesus who said "turn the other cheek". Wasnt it Jesus who even when his time on earth was coming to a close, never resorted to violence? Wasnt it Jesus who preeched and practiced a message of love and understanding? Wasnt it Jesus who said "all are welcome to gods table". It seems you religious zealots use your faith only when it is convenient to your message. If you were a true Christian (I am not and do not claim to be) After September 11th your response would have been in prayer and love, not violence. You "convservatives" are righteous hipocrites!

Posted by: Stop your B.S at November 2, 2004 10:58 AM

This really spoke to my heart! As a young Bush supporter, who didn't get registered in time to vote, I hope people see this and are as touched as I was. What a great country we live in. God bless America and our troops...

Vote Christian - Vote Bush

Posted by: Amanda at November 2, 2004 11:02 AM

Man this thread has turned spiteful in places. Pre-defeat jitters I guess, hope reality doesn't descend too brutally for some to manage. Might get rough out there . . .

Posted by: Uncle Mikey at November 2, 2004 11:05 AM

I ended up on this website by accident, and while I will be wildly unpopular amongst the rest of your readers, I respectfully think you need to open your eyes to what's going on in the world. Those graphic pictures you chose to show will only keep popping up if we re-elect George Bush. I am truly offended that you would say our soldiers will die in vain if a new president is voted into office. I don't know who you think you are to call Spain cowards. This president has lied to us, put our soldiers in harms way, and has increased the hate of America throughout the world. Believe me, I understand the disaster that was September 11 and the atrocities that occur daily in the Middle East. I am proud to be American, but I am more proud to be a human being in this world. I would rather share this world in peace, than live day to day in fear of what will happen with George Bush in control. America is headed into a scary direction, and the only hope I can see is in the election of John Kerry.

Posted by: Hope at November 2, 2004 11:19 AM

you are weak and terrified by your own impotence. how about some critical thinking instead of this blantant propaganda?

-a true patriot

Posted by: thomas jefferson davis at November 2, 2004 11:49 AM

hi nicole,
i gave dan a respectful reply. now i will give you one also. i'm sure if you asked saddam today if he should have messed with the U.S. he would definately disagree. the united nations tried using diplomacy with saddam for 12 years. killing in war has lead to many people living freely which constitutes success to me. look at our own countries history, war was a road travel that lead to this countries success. although i am not over in iraq i respect all the military and i know most of them believe they are fighting the good fight and this is a worthy cause. they understand there is no diplomatic skills one can have to deal with, as you well put it, radical people. our war with terrorist in afghanistan i believe is a success. i believe that because afghan. women who did a ritual cleansing preparing for their possible death were able to vote. they respect the lives that were lost for their freedom and now they have hope. i wish people did not have to die, although history has proven fighting for freedom is a worthy cause. i feel the same way you do though that i wish there was another way. by the way a friend of mine lost his son in iraq and i hope everyone can find constructive critism to help our leaders. NO ONE IS RESPECTING OUR SOLDIERS BY FIGHTING BETWEEN EACH OTHER.MAKE AMERICA A POLITE PLACE TO KINDLY DISAGREE.
take care all

Posted by: tara at November 2, 2004 11:53 AM

GEORGE W. BUSH IS MY HERO!

Posted by: xoxo at November 2, 2004 11:55 AM

why

Posted by: edhfdt at November 2, 2004 12:03 PM

Thank you for the very moving photo essay. It is for all of those reasons that i am voting for John Kerry. Bush has made the world less safe not more. But i guess it's all a matter of perception.

Posted by: Rebecca at November 2, 2004 12:04 PM

I support the troops...my own little brother is fighting the fight.

I support bring terrorists to their knees.

I support making America a shining example of a democracy.

For these reasons I cannot and will not support George Bush.

Posted by: D. at November 2, 2004 12:18 PM

The fifty reasons you give to vote for Bush is a disgrace. Half of those reasons would not be there if Bush did not get us into a war in the first place. Since we are a democratic society the other half of your reasons should apply to all of us. But if you wish to persuade me try giving concrete reasons regarding the economy, health care, taxes and the such. Until then stop with caking of pictures.

Posted by: Bryan Golba at November 2, 2004 12:24 PM

"Kerry trolls, righ wing fascists, zealots, war mongers, Bushies..."

Doesn't anybody have any decency or respect anymore? Is the anonymous nature of the internet what makes you show your true, ugly selves? I am truly embarrassed to be an American. We all need to go back and read the Gettysburg Address. Meaningful debate is one thing, but this is the most disgusting thread I've ever read.

Go ahead, lambast me for saying I'm embarrassed, tell me to go to live in Pakhistan, call me a plinko commie. Then go back and congratulate yourself on how you really nailed me. What a great country - no where else on the earth can someone so freely disseminate hatred and venom.

Posted by: sad at November 2, 2004 12:29 PM

I LOVE GEORGE BUSH!!!!! 4 MORE YEARS!!!!

Posted by: Jackie at November 2, 2004 12:42 PM

People need to stop voting based upon their pocketbook and start thinking about the security of this country. All the money you make will just allow your relatives enough to buy you a larger toomstone and an empty epetath. God bless America, and God bless our President.

Posted by: Bill at November 2, 2004 12:56 PM

Your ignorance as to what transpired in Spain is overwhelming. The Spaniards made an incredibly courageous decision to question their government, to question Bush, to stand up to the bully american government, to stand up for what is right for the Spanish people. The train explosions were a criminal act carried out by evil people, but instead of succumbing to their level, as americans have done, the Spanish people declared they were better than that. What did Sadam have to do with 9/11? i'm still waiting for a republican to answer that question. yuxtaposing pictures of iraq and 9/11 is misleading and manipulative, or at best, ignorant.

Posted by: Versos at November 2, 2004 1:00 PM

George W got my vote! I would rather have a president that thinks things through and comes to a rational decision, than one that makes a snap decision we would regret for a very long time. Kerry is not presidential material!

Go GW Go!

Judith

Posted by: Judith at November 2, 2004 1:04 PM

I have already replied to this message within the columns themselves. God Bless America and May God bless the man who wins. I have seen all 50 reasons and I agree since I a New Yorker who watched part of my life come crumbling down on Sept. 11th. For those of you who do not live here and did not see it you will never feel or understand the impact it has had on our lives and our way of living. Our streets are now being named after lost Firefighters and lost Fireman.
Children lost their parents. Parents lost their children. Neighbors lost their neighbors. I need to feel safe and I will not feel safe with a new man in office. People have to stop and SEE and not Listen too much. If you SEE what is on this site now then you will truly understand, at least I hope you will..

Posted by: Lorraine at November 2, 2004 1:13 PM

I have already replied to this message within the columns themselves. God Bless America and May God bless the man who wins. I have seen all 50 reasons and I agree since I a New Yorker who watched part of my life come crumbling down on Sept. 11th. For those of you who do not live here and did not see it you will never feel or understand the impact it has had on our lives and our way of living. Our streets are now being named after lost Firefighters and lost Fireman.
Children lost their parents. Parents lost their children. Neighbors lost their neighbors. I need to feel safe and I will not feel safe with a new man in office. People have to stop and SEE and not Listen too much. If you SEE what is on this site now then you will truly understand, at least I hope you will..

Posted by: Lorraine at November 2, 2004 1:14 PM

Don't you think that guy on the motorcycle ever broke a law? Haven't you? Why are you the 'good'? Why doesn't Bush serve the jail time he 'owes' the country for his cocaine habit? Hypocritical and arbitrary junk, this site.

Posted by: Jake at November 2, 2004 1:29 PM

So let me get this right,

Bush is going to make our soldiers come back with honor but Kerry isn't? I see no facts (anywhere, about any of these claims) to support this or show why Kerry wouldn't bring them back with honor.

Bush is going to make that soldier not to have died in vain over....oil? Freedom for Iraqis? I have yet to see a free Iraq or any signs that Iraq will be free and stable any time in the near future. Even the Green Zone isn't as safe as it used to be assumed to be. Iraq has become a crossing ground and recruiting ground for terrorists.

That men such as the Husseins and Bin Laden hunted down? The Husseins are no worse than many of the dictators in our world, and what are we doing about the others? What made the Husseins and Iraq so special? The WMD? The threat to our country? I haven't seen any of that. This war distracted from our war on Osama and Al Qaeda. We hired Afghanistan warlords to hunt down Osama and took the majority of our troops out of Afghanistan for Iraq before we had obtained the mastermind of 9-11??? Utterly ridiculous.

That those who use children to perform suicide attacks would be killed? Iraq had no ties to terrorism, nor did they use children to attack. Saddam was too much of a dictator to allow terrorists to exist in his country. Terrorism is thriving now, though, and we see children cheering on the hanging of burned American corpses from bridges.

That the American Flag will be seen around the world as it truly is -- the harbinger of freedom and the last, best hope of Earth? America's Image AROUND THE WORLD has decreased in terms of respect. Check out other media publications on the web from other countries. You'll be surprised what our media doesn't tell us, and how different their views are.

Why do the Republicans keep using these scare tactics to influence the vote? Yes, terrorism is important and home security is important, but there are many other issues to address. Plus, I'd think Bush would downplay his war on terror, since invading Iraq has only made terrorism worse and our situation more precarious.

Posted by: Aaron Groenewold at November 2, 2004 1:31 PM

"I would rather have a president that thinks things through and comes to a rational decision, than one that makes a snap decision we would regret for a very long time." WOW reason enough right there to vote for Kerry. Bush said he'd go to war as a last resort, but that was not the case. He went hastily without any thought, without any real planning. So how does that justify your need for a rational decision making president? I think you need to think things through and come to a real rational decision.

Posted by: Nicole at November 2, 2004 1:41 PM

Months and months of military and logistical buildup. Endless trips to the UN. Warning after warning across months and months.

Went hastily? Perhaps if you tend to think in geologic time frames.

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 2, 2004 1:44 PM

When the British tried to control our homeland and kill our children we called ourselves patriots...don't be a hypocrite.

Wake up America...Liberty lies dying in your own backyard.

Posted by: saudis_knocked_em_down at November 2, 2004 1:45 PM

Thank you for the pictorial. I am reminded that this is a great country in which to be free. I am thankful to God for the freedom I have to have my voice heard. The minds and hearts of many Americans have been hardened, and many have forgotten what sets us apart from the majority of the rest of the world...our freedom. If you choose to close your mind, then you are not exercising your right as an American.

Posted by: Melissa Davis at November 2, 2004 1:55 PM

This reads very much like 50 reasons to elect John Kerry. George Bush seems intent on doing everything in his power to strengthen radical Islam. He has ignored the true threats while generating new ones.

Why, when we were confronting a terrorist threat from radical muslims did he decide to overthrow a secular anti-islamist leader? We now have galvanized hatred against the United States. We have lost 1,500 Americans to terrorists by puting them in positions where they can be attacked. We have taken a country where terrorists were ruthlessly repressed, and created a space where thirty percent of the land is now open to any terrorist who decides to plant a tent.
I genuinely want an end to the atrocities... I hope Kerry is elected so that this end is furthered.

Posted by: Brian at November 2, 2004 1:56 PM

Well I read all this banter from on side to the other and after everything is said and done Any person can sift through data days, months, years, after the fact and said woulda should coulda done somthing different. Each person has to make there own decisions everyday. What are your decisions Most everyone has there mind made up and will only see it from there point of view and no matter who is in office those to do not like that person will see bad and vise versa. We are a divided country. and no amount of outside influence will tear us down if America falls it will be from the inside. Because no one is wrong and there is no options expect the option that each person has and neither side is willing to budge. Someone before mentioned the Gettysburg, The love for each other that was a founding cornerstone of this country had faded away and we are left with nothing. It does not matter who is in office if we as individuals do not take responsibility for ourselves our children instead of pointing fingers at everyone else this great country will rot from the inside out. It is time for this country to just grow up

Posted by: Jim J at November 2, 2004 1:59 PM

I am a first time voter, I already know that I am voting KERRY-EDWARDS!!! 110%, But if I were undecided and saw you little photo album, I'd defintly be pursuaded to go for Kerry. You placed a bunch of pictures that are basically stating "This is what has happed since GWB was elected.... Not too smart buddy

Posted by: Migdalia at November 2, 2004 2:01 PM

Migalia- Yes a first time “uninformed” voter if you really looked at the pictures you would see beyond yourself and see that this has been going on since the beginning of time! As time goes on and you grow older I only hope you grow smarter. The intelligence level was displayed perfectly by you!!

Posted by: Kids!! at November 2, 2004 2:13 PM

Thank you so much for your essay. How soon so many forget the infamous day of 9/11 and how America under President Bush reacted. Keep praying that America remains strong in standing up for freedom. God Bless George Bush and God Bless America!

Posted by: Todd Chaeny at November 2, 2004 2:23 PM

Thank you so much for your essay. How soon so many forget the infamous day of 9/11 and how America under President Bush reacted. Keep praying that America remains strong in standing up for freedom. God Bless George Bush and God Bless America!

Posted by: Todd Chaney at November 2, 2004 2:24 PM

"George Bush could have prevented 9/11.
He chose not to.
"George Bush could have tracked down Osama Bin Laden.
He chose not to.
George Bush could have listened to the world's conscience when the largest gathering of protesters ever stood up against his desicion to bomb Iraq.
He chose not to"....

Clinton choose NOT TOO do a damn thing the FIRST TIME the towers were attacked, Bush inherited Clinton's mess {Yeah the market started to TANK at the end of Clinton's term} Bush has done very well considering what he had to deal with. Unlike his predecessor.

Posted by: Saying_It_the_way_it_is at November 2, 2004 2:24 PM

I'm a Vietnam vet "Infantry", and a Christian. God bless you and Pres. Bush, and this great country we live in.Kerry would turn it all over to the UN. If Kerry wins , cash in your chips folks, it's all over. Go Bush. Let us remain free. Phil S. from Indiana

Posted by: Phil Sisk at November 2, 2004 2:30 PM

I'm a Vietnam vet "Infantry", and a Christian. God bless you and Pres. Bush, and this great country we live in.Kerry would turn it all over to the UN. If Kerry wins , cash in your chips folks, it's all over. Go Bush. Let us remain free. Phil S. from Indiana

Posted by: Phil Sisk at November 2, 2004 2:31 PM

I believe GWB does not make a decision without praying and asking for guidance from God first. He knows we pray for him because he says he can feel it. I know he will make the best decisions he knows how. GWB is a good man and a good leader. I believe in my heart that as Americans we are basically good and will make the right decision today.

Posted by: Sarah at November 2, 2004 2:37 PM

I believe GWB does not make a decision without praying and asking for guidance from God first. He knows we pray for him because he says he can feel it. I know he will make the best decisions he knows how. GWB is a good man and a good leader. I believe in my heart that as Americans we are basically good and will make the right decision today.

Posted by: Sarah at November 2, 2004 2:38 PM

I believe the President thought one day that he could not take a chance on the weapons that Sadam had stored in Iraq. He truly believed that Sadam had WMD's; everyone thought he had those weapons and that is what really gets me so mad with John Kerry. To state that the president new that there were no WMD's; is just so untrue; that I could never vote so such a person. John Kerry is a liar and such a big liar and democrats don't give a shit;It is a little sick on their part; Let't hope we can pull this one out and may the better man win and please we need God's help with anything we do. I also hope we do raise the minimum raise(Why raise this question here?) because we can't keep allowing americans make less than a more livable wage. I know Bush is not for this but we need it. and we need less abortion not more. We need more adoption. We need to spend less money on pork and trim the fat from the budget. God bless you all and let us hope our prayers are answered. Posted by William P Benson at 11/02/04 6:08 PM

Posted by: William P Benson at November 2, 2004 3:09 PM

After reading your overly dramatic blog and a few of the blindly patriotic comments, I must say I am shocked by the ethnocentric views that many americans have.

I have personally lived and experienced the beauty of ethnic and cultural diffrences in many diffrent countries throughout the world,
and I must say that such comments universally offend any well-cultured humanbeing.

To suggest that the world would be a better place, grateful of "freedom" brought by our beloved American flag, would be absurd. Our promises of freedom are hollow; America ultimately aims to economically subjugate the lesser nations of the world..and if you ask me, that's no freedom.

To all of you ignorantly-patriotic americans I only have this to say:

Get a plane ticket, and go somewhere you've never been before.

See the truth that is out there.


The places where the destroying hands of america have not touched and ruined.

Live life as it was meant to be lived.


And remember,

America, the juvenile country of all countries.
America, the rebellious teenager.

America IS the bigger terrorist.

Posted by: Michelle at November 2, 2004 3:16 PM

All I can say is this is absolutely pathetic.

How easy is it to put up pictures of terrorists, attrocities and dead children and then say "See this, George Bush is against this. If you're against this, George is your man!"

Yes, without a doubt, our service men and women are brave and patriotic beyond words, and these terrorist extremists are just as evil. But the thing that has blown me away this election is Bush supporter's inability to look deeper into the issues. Like sheep, they buy into this administration's rhetoric of fear. They put up or create images like the ones here and hope the american public will just go with it unquestioned. Of couse, we need to do everything in our power to eradicate images like these, but that isn't a partisan issue. Both canidates want to and will take every measure to see that these terrorists are stopped. But for you to pull heartstrings and then claim that Bush is the answer is just plain wrong and despicable. And if your answer is "Well, I just think Bush will do a better job." Are you living in a Biosphere? Do you hear and see the reports of ill equipped soldiers? The shifting of a war to country that had nothing to do with 9/11? The miscalculations regarding the number of troops needed? WMD's? The lack of foresight regarding giving muslims a reason to join the insurgency? I mean, come on, all you have to have is have eyes and ears.

It seems Republicans can't/don't want to see that Iraq was never involved in the events of 9/11. Bin Laden is still galavanting around Afghanistan/Pakistan. Bush used "The war on Terror" as an excuse to facilitate a take over of Iraq that Wolfowitz and Rove had planned even before 9/11. He's taken troops away from the search for the mastermind of 9/11 and sent them thousands of miles away to take over a country that had nothing to do with it, and in the process, has created animosity that has without a doubt created even more terrorists.

Bush making you safer? Please. He's bolstered terrorist recruitment like never before. He's created more terrorists. Mis-steps like this are common-place for this administration. WMD's? Um...not there. The Iraqis, welcoming us with flowers and parades? Not quite working out that way. Wolfowitz and Bush's vision of a smaller, faster fighting force? We're on the verge of sending thousands of more troops. That's what I can't get about these Republican supporters. All they have to do is read a newspaper or turn on the news and see how ineptly this war (which never should have occured in the first place) has been run. It's all there in black and white, and they refuse to see reality. Instead, they just hear Bush droning on and on about how well the war is going, standing in flight suits in front of a "mission accomplished" sign and how it's all going according to plan. It's like this president, his administration and his supporters are all living in some parallel universe.

And it steams me even more to think of America's youth being sent over to die on the questionable logic of an arrogant cowboy who has never seen day one actual combat. Hey, don't get me wrong, if we were fighting the right fight, I would have no problem. But he wrapped this war up in "The war on Terrorism," and uninformed republicans supporters bought it.

Maybe they were just too busy looking at rhetoric laced pictures to see the facts that are staring them in the face.

Posted by: Brad at November 2, 2004 3:54 PM

If Bush wins it will categorically prove that there is no God. By the fundamentalists' own definition He is an all knowing, all caring, all loving God. No God that fits this description would allow such a complete moron to keep the most powerful job on earth after the mess he's made of it.

Posted by: disgusted at November 2, 2004 5:29 PM

Pictures are worth a thousand words. Clinton had a chance to stop Bin Laden for eight years, but the liberals wanted to be diplomatic. I am over the liberal ways. During the Carter years, my husband and I had a home interest rate of 15.5% on our first home. During the Clinton years, our health care (thru my husbands work) costs rose, while the coverage lessened. We were able this year to change to an insurance plan with great coverage at $2.00 less per week. We are of working middle class americans. I am an unemployed airline worker. But, will vote Demorcrat when HELL freezes! NOT!

Posted by: Holly at November 2, 2004 5:41 PM

There are a lot of things wrong with the old Clintion administration and there are a lot of things wrong with the current Bush administration, too. No doubt there will be a lot of things wrong with an administration run by Kerry. Still I hope and preay that God will have mercy on OUR souls should George W. Bush win the 2004 election. Bush is the closest thing to the Anti-Christ that my generation has seen. I seriously doubt any of you that are pro-Bush have watched the movie "Fahrenheit 9/11" and those of you that have seen most likely dismissed it as hogwash and propaganda. I feel for all the innocent that have lost their lives as a result of the attacks on 9/11 and I do think that a response was needed for the devastation that was caused. I was once proud to be an American and now I am ashamed. Ashamed that the most powerful sountry on the face of the planet thinks it has the right to be the parent of the world. The Iraqi people did need to be freed, but not at the cost. The attacks on Iraq were nothing more than a diversion to take minds off the fact that Bin Laden eluded us time and again. Our economy is the worst it has ever been since the Great Depression, and Republicans want to blame that on Clinton. It's not his fault. The fault lies with the G. W. Bush. He has destroyed this country, and most are blind to that because he prmoised tax cuts for the middle class. He promised them and "provided" them so that you got a few hundred dollars back. You didn't notice that that tax break was written so the wealthiest people in the country got millions (and in some cases billions) of dollars in savings. People who didn't need the money got it anyway. Whereas people like myself have struggled for the past 4 years to make it from paycheck to paycheck. No, there is no justice in this country for me, or for anyone like me. I will likely never know the equal rights that I am promised by the US Constitution, and I will always have Christianity force-fed to me although it is not my chosen religion. The rest of the people of the US and the world will always have Christianity force-fed to them although one of the basic principles that founded this country was freedom of religion. If there was no war right now, this election would stand on one thing alone - religion. It would be based on a religion that very few people in this world truly have an understanding of, and I am proud to say that my eyes were opened years ago.

Posted by: SapphirePhoenix at November 2, 2004 8:26 PM

Children have been murdered on both sides. Bush is no better than any other terrorist. He kills for vengeance and "God," they kill for vengeance and "God." Neither are reasonable. Both are despicable. the American flag will always be seen as a symbol of greed and regarded with hatred as long as U.S. citizens like yourself retains your arrogance. Don't kid yourself, your ethnocentrism makes you a blind fool.

Posted by: J at November 2, 2004 10:55 PM

But, at the end of the day, an American one. And proud to be so.

I've given my reasons and many here have given theirs.

And now the people have given their answer.

"In the night, and overhead a shovel of stars for keeps, the people march:
"Where to? what next?"

Thank you all for coming.

This thread is now closed.

What next?

Posted by: Gerard Van der Leun at November 2, 2004 10:59 PM