Gas prices did reach $4 per gallon in summer, 2008 (under Bush), but came down by fall. In fairness to both Bush and Obama, the world market — not the president — is in control. One theory says that tensions with Iran have influence. War with Iran now? Not a smart move. Remember Rumsfeld: “I can’t tell you if the use of force in Iraq today would last five days, or five weeks, or five months, but it certainly isn’t going to last any longer than that.” Really? About Iraqi oil paying for it? It has cost US taxpayers over $500 billion, not to mention thousands of precious lives.

 But, Romney’s campaign and Fox will say, quit blaming Bush! Why? Bush’s policies “buried” the middle class by creating the biggest disparity between haves and have-nots in history. The middle class began to disappear long before Obama took office. No free thinker imagines anyone could have dug out from the rubble that 2000–2008 created in four years. Also, the deficit soared during Republican icon Ronald Reagan’s first term. Obama should be allowed to finish his intentions; not be cut off mid-stream.

 More unsettling was reference to “Obama’s friends.” I will counter with “Bush’s Family.” For those of you who will check names at Wikipedia, please check Prescott Bush, W’s grandfather. Follow the links to his involvement with Brown Brothers Harriman — a Wall Street firm — for 40 years! This is not my invention; do the research, and learn of the connection between this group and the rise and perpetuation of the Nazi war machine. Look up, Smedley Butler, Brig. General, and check out his short book War Is A Racket. Look up the real definition of Fascism. I agree: “Educate yourself.” As “Deep Throat” said in All the President’s Men, “Follow the money.”

While you are at it, check out The Patriot Act; read how it has all but shredded much of the Constitution the Romney campaign has accused Obama of ignoring.

 Also, extremely relevant in this discussion is the main message of President Eisenhower’s Farewell Address:

 “...This conjunction of an immense military establishment and a large arms industry is new in the American experience... We recognize the imperative need for this development. Yet we must not fail to comprehend its grave implications... In the councils of government, we must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the military-industrial complex. The potential for the disastrous rise of misplaced power exists and will persist. We must never let the weight of this combination endanger our liberties or democratic processes.”

 Ike was a West Point graduate, general in wartime, a two-term president, and a Republican. Check out Romney’s plans for the already sufficient military budget. Do the research.

Michael Luzzi

Boggs Hill Road, Newtown                                        October 17, 2012