The Sun Journal endorsement of President Bush (Oct. 27) is surprising, extremely disappointing and based on poor logic. I, too, would like better options. But I believe Sen. Kerry is the wiser choice.

The editorial writer claims Kerry is incapable of good leadership. As proof it was noted that the race is now neck and neck and that Bush has remained “strong,” despite climbing deficits and mounting Iraq casualties.

Those arguments apply even more forcefully to Bush. He squeaked into office four years ago. Gore won the popular vote. Bush’s ratings soared after the 2001 terrorist attacks, which united America and brought us the world’s sympathy and support.

Since then, Bush has chosen policies on the big issues that have eroded his support and again divided us. Domestically, his tax cuts have worsened the deficit, making it harder to pay for needed education and health policies.

Internationally, he has diverted our attention and resources to Iraq, which had no connection with al-Qaida’s Sept. 11 attacks, and which no longer had weapons of mass destruction. The Iraq invasion and occupation have had huge and growing costs – more bad news for the deficit. The death toll is soaring. Around the world, most who supported and respected us three years ago now view America as misguided, or (worse) as an aggressor.

Bush has stubbornly taken the wrong directions. This is not the leadership America needs.

Kerry is not perfect. But John F. Kerry’s vision will put us on the right path.

Anne Williams, Lewiston

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