George,

I have been a supporter of Obama - one because I like him, and two because I am not anxious for a Clinton White House again. I do not like her and Bill's deliberate use of racism to undermine Obama and her experience does not ensure us that she will make better or wiser decisions than Obama. Think Lincoln - little experience, lofty words and tough decisions that turned out right. I do agree, however, that not only has Obama generally avoided giving substance to his promises, but when he does talk about the economy or his Iraq policy I am not hearing much that impresses me.

I think his idea that we can withdraw relatively quickly from Iraq and have lots of money left over for all the social programs he describes is foolish. I fear a quick departure from Iraq because of the liklihood of leaving murderous cahos in our wake that will in the long run be worse than staying until we are more confident of the Iraqis' capacity to maintain security. I cannot say what the signs will be or when this will happen. There are no good choices there.

Nobody, not he nor Clinton, dares to talk about the deficit and the crushing burden this will saddle on our grandchildren. Unpleasant choices about medicare and social security are going to have to be made now if we are to head toward a more solid economic future. We are going to have to pay more somehow - taxes, less benefits, later benefits - something. And nobody wants to talk about that. How do we force them to?

Jennifer Gaden (Electronic mail, February 20, 2008)