The budget deficit is due to Hurricane Katrina.

I didn’t believe that statement, but at his latest photo-op in New Orleans that is what President George W. Bush said. He made no mention of the $200 billion-plus for Iraq (estimated to go as high as $2 trillion by 2010 – yes, the Bush administration plans to be there indefinitely, even as the Iraqis are asking us to leave, now). No mention of tax cuts for the rich while the neediest go without.

There is good news: Millions of Americans are speaking out about the harmful and probably criminal actions of the Bush administration. Bush and irresponsible, corrupt Republicans in Congress are abandoning many of their dearest measures, their support waning and majority slipping.

This president did not covet our highest office to serve the public, nor even to advance Republican ideals. It was to advance a specific agenda.

So, to those who have been scratching their heads wondering why the president doesn’t seem to get it, it is because he really doesn’t care. His mission is to effect specific outcomes before he leaves office, including being the world’s policeman, and perpetual war.

The arrogance of Bush’s lies is breathtaking – the latest revelation is that he authorized spying on us before Sept. 11.

Our job is to keep up the good work: Be relentless, voice our outrage over the actions of this president and congressmen who turn their heads while our democracy is being ripped to shreds.

Suzanne Dunham, Greenwood