Las Vegas Sun

March 29, 2024

Letter: Troops sent in via democratic process

Defense Secretary Robert Gates' observation that the congressional effort to oppose President Bush's plan for a troop increase in Iraq "emboldens the enemy" does not illustrate a lack of understanding of the democratic process. Indeed, he is exercising his right of freedom of speech.

The Las Vegas Sun's conclusion in a Jan. 29 editorial that was headlined, "Flunking a lesson in civics - defense secretary's criticism shows he could learn more about how democracy works," leads me to believe that the editorial writer needs a lesson in logic.

The writer also seems to be flunking a lesson in history. The democratic process was alive and well when the Senate gave approval to send troops to Iraq. Bush acted in concert with the legislative branch. The editorial writer just can't seem to remember this.

M. Marcia Brutch, Las Vegas

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