Letters

Drop negative assumptions about Bush, Rove

Daniel Schorr, in his July 15 Opinion piece, "Rove leak is just part of a larger scandal," seems to assume our president to be a warmonger with nearly uncontrollable megalomania. Therefore, he concludes, there must be a larger scandal involved.

Why not give our president some respect? Couldn't we assume that he is simply doing what he thinks is right for our country, and trust that his administration isn't continually trying to mislead everyone?

I lean to the right, but I was able to give President Clinton respect.

It's time to drop the pessimistic, negative assumptions about our leaders and extend them the courtesy of being considered decent human beings working through difficult situations with their country's welfare at heart.
Jeff Burrow
Mansfield, Texas

Regarding the July 19 article, "Naming a covert operative: the basic facts of the CIA leak case": President Bush has stated that any individuals found to be criminals would no longer serve in his administration.

Isn't it a matter of course that a criminal would not serve in this or any other president's administration?

Bush's statement therefore offers nothing new and is tantamount to a null statement, since it is assumed that criminals should not hold such positions. His statement is designed to make him appear strong and unbiased, but in actuality, it says nothing.
D.A. Petras
Tustin, Calif.

Responding to John Hughes's July 13 Opinion piece, "From New York to London, we're all in this together": In 2001, I was in the south of England with my family on a business trip when the horrible events of Sept. 11, 2001, unfolded. We were isolated from what was happening at home.

Our frustration was offset considerably by the kindness of dozens of British strangers who approached us with condolences, encouragement, and even gifts. Their sympathy and sincerity were something we'll never forget.

So much has changed. That was a time of international solidarity, a time when America was a victim, not a victimizer; a uniter, not a divider; a leader by example, not just words.

Sadly, the outpouring of generosity and goodwill toward America after 9/11 was squandered quickly through arrogance and imprudence.

What a pity that it has taken another tragedy to bring the world back together again, if only for a few days.
Robert J. Inlow
Charlottesville, Va.

Indeed, as the July 6 editorial, "Africa Ignores a Mote in Its Eye" says, a "better window into what really ails Africa, and what can be done about it, is playing out in Zimbabwe, scene of the latest human-rights disaster in Africa after Darfur."

Africa needs more than self-absorbed rock stars prancing on stages singing "We Are The World" while dictators, not debt, ravage the continent.

How do you fight poverty and homelessness in Zimbabwe when President Mugabe forces thousands of poor people to leave their homes and relocate in an "urban renewal" project called Operation Drive Out Trash?

Africa needs investment, not aid. Economic growth in Africa, as elsewhere, depends on a vibrant and free private sector where property is protected. Economic stability and growth cannot take place where brutality, oppression, and corruption rule.

We need to give Africa democracy, not just debt relief.
Daniel John Sobieski
Chicago

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