Perry;

Democracy allows the masses to express his/her political beliefs. Democracy exists as an ideal in some cases and the reality can sometimes be difficult to understand. We tried to make a democracy out of Vietnam. The illiteracy rate of Vietnam was 46.5%, with the average citizen of that country never having been more then ten miles from the point where they were born. As a Vietnam veteran I saw more than I care to mention!

The history of the Republican Party since Reagan has promised smaller government, reduced spending and reduced national debt. If you wish check the reality of these elements of our government. The short answer is that government size increased noticeably along with increased spending and an increase in the national debt.

The Republicans do promise less spending for programs which include those least able to help themselves such as children and the elderly. They do keep that promise very well!

I must admit that in recent times the republican administrations have won more wars though. Grenada, Panama, and Iraq come to mind.

Least anyone think that I love all democrats, perish the thought! LBJ is my least favorite president!!! Carter was the most inept President we have had, but has proven to be a world-class humanitarian.

Our nation has enjoyed the most interesting period I have studied, from 1945 until today. In theory we have a nation which has checks and balances but that is only theory. The reality speaks otherwise. Something is wrong with our system regardless of which political party affliction you profess. It seems that those presidents with strong personalities tend to have more influence then others. That influence may be good or bad depending upon your viewpoint.

Sometimes I think of our nation as a nation expressing hypocrisy, indifference to reality, and an agenda of me first, last and always! Political concepts like, “The Domino Theory”, and many others allow a simplified way to define the good guys and the bad guys. We want all countries of the world to enjoy our political/economic system. Our agenda is clear as announced through the words of our President. There is an axis of evil we must eliminate!

Tom