American democracy is at an incredibly dangerous juncture in its existence. We are facing serious threats both domestically and overseas. The suspension of habeas corpus and the removal of the limits on martial law are very heinous and suspicious, since they were part of the cornerstones of our country. The freedoms of speech, press, assembly and the right to bear arms, were all instituted to ensure our freedom. Since the Magna Carta, personal freedoms and justice have been our inalienable rights, and now we meekly give them up to our new-conservative (neo-con) rulers.

Our forefathers were suspicious of mercenaries such as the Hessians who fought for the British in the Revolutionary War. The mercenary armies in Iraq, now have training bases on our soil, even though only about 60 percent are American citizens, and they are heavily armed. These experienced professional soldiers are loyal only to a private contractor, and its payroll. If this obscene Iraqi occupation is ended, watch for them to get a no-bid open ended contract on the Mexican border, as they are already building a base almost on top of it.

I am not enthused about the Democratic nominees but after the present administration I welcome any change. America cannot afford any more robber barons, especially ones who claim to be super patriots while short changing our soldiers both in Iraq and after returning home from attempting to secure the oil producing countries for the oil companies. How much blood from both Americans and Iraqis have to be shed for the multinational oil companies? We may not be the deciders, but we need to keep a close eye on those who used to be considered public servants.

Dave Gebhard lives in Lakeport.

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