Picture me as an Iraqi here in the United States, trying to figure out who I’m going to vote for to lead my new and turbulent nation. I have not seen any candidates on the evening news and even if I had, I would have no idea of their backgrounds, ability to lead, ideologies and hopes for a new agenda for a new, liberated Iraq.

Now picture me as an American. President Washington had a clear vision for a young and troubled nation, but those wanting freedom from outside influences stood their ground and freedom and democracy prevailed, based only on those brave Americans who embraced the values of freedom as we enjoy today.

Freedom to vote and a democratic society are earned at a price paid in tears, but should they be ours?

Does Iraq have a George Washington? I have no idea.

The red states and blue states in this Iraqi election are red, white and blue, the color of our flag that covers the coffins of our returning young men and women in uniform.

Al Pelletier, Norway