Austin, Texas... Politex's for Letters ...www.bushwatch.com

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Yesterday, a loyal follower of Bush Watch asked me to consider not criticizing Bush during this present crisis: "After yesterday the Resident became my President. Not because of who he is but because of what he now represents: America. I suggest a political cease-fire on Bush Watch, at least until the worst of this crisis is concluded. The nation deserves a show of unity during this somber time. Please give this serious consideration." What do you think? Should I cease all mention of Bush's policies during this crisis? How will I know when the worst is over? We've been told by those on both sides of the aisle that the crisis will take years to resolve. And what about a war? Should Bush get a free pass on everything he does as President during a war but not during a crisis? During this time period should he be allowed to pollute the landscape? Stiff poor kids? Give away our health care system to the insurance companies? Has Bush become a symbol, above reproach, but free to continue to carry out his unhealthy policies? How about his administration? Should Ashcroft get a free pass, too, or just Bush? Should we stop talking about Bush's speaking disabilities? (Yesterday, a Chicago Trib reporter called part of his Tuesday speech "maladroit.") Should commentators stop commenting? Or should Bush just get a free pass on military matters? Would it be wrong to wonder if Bush and Ari were practicing politics in their Air Force One explanation yesterday, as did an ABC reporter? Former Sec. of State Warren Christopher mentioned yesterday that the terrorists will have won if they have gotten us to act undemocratically in the name of preserving democracy. Is removing the free speech of the loyal opposition what happens in a crisis? Or only in a war? Only some wars? What have we learned from Viet Nam? Was it ok to criticize Nixon? Johnson? But not this Bush? What do you think? I really want to know. --Politex, 9/13/01

I have enjoyed your site for over a year and half since I discovered it. As traumatic as the tragedy in New York and Washington was, it can’t be claimed that nobody could have expected it. The dittoheads listened to Rush bellyache about the then trivial inconveniences of air travel before the attack occurred. There was a series of threats, some more or less specific that were ignored. Now that the attack occurred, and was indeed made to appear easy, we have what is described as an indefinite state of war against as yet to be determined enemies. So now we all supposed to shut up. We have to pretend that the Commander in Chimp really is the lawfully elected President, that he didn’t steal the election, that the government isn’t controlled by oil men and defense contractors as the result of a judicial coup, and that we all have to buy into his Christian Jihad crusade talk about unlimited global war against evil for the indefinite future. Otherwise, we are presumably traitors.

Isn’t it ironic how only weeks ago Bush was virtually weeping over the fate of insensate undifferentiated embryonic blastocysts. Sacrificing these cells was, he explained, as grave a decision as sending our youth into battle. We must preserve the sanctity of life. Those words prefaced a cynical and commercially convenient decision that was intended to mollify the right to lifers while assuring the profitability of the intellectual property of select corporations. The disturbing fact that we observed about the Bush character is that he appears under limited circumstances to be unable to make a moral distinction between the value of the life of a fully formed human being and that of a fertilized ovum.

So now everything has changed. The Congress is rushing headlong into passage of some truly terrible legislation, some of which is obviously unconstitutional. Without even looking at what will happen to the Fourth Amendment, already eviscerated by the War on Drugs, it seems hard to imagine that the retroactive repeal of the statute of limitation on computer crimes does not constitute an ex post facto law. It is hard also to contemplate a life term without parole for a naïve teenaged computer vandal.

The destruction of the World Trade Center by suicidal hijackers was a terrible crime. It wasn’t in the classic sense an act of war, since it was not committed as far as we know, by a government that is at war with us. It is no more an act of war than the destruction of the Federal building in Oklahoma City. A crime yes, that 99% of the world loathes, but not a rational basis for a major global war.

Before we assent to permanent changes in the law that give to law enforcement unprecedented rights of search and seizure, and new powers of unsupervised surveillance, and forget the questions about the 2000 election (and it is presumed the 2002 and 2004 elections), lets consider how pat and convenient this situation is to the formally besieged Bush administration and his benefactors in the oil and defense industries. Before an orgy of destruction is committed in the name of American revenge, let’s allow a debate and insist at least that the scope of the objectives remain subject to review. Congress has never approved as unrestricted a license for a President to wage war against so many potential unspecified enemies. There is a significant Constitutional question about whether Congress is authorized to abrogate it’s review of the scope of the Presidential war making power to that extent.

I hope that the owners of sites such as Bush Watch will return to the relentless and difficult questioning of power that the mainstream media does not provide. Sites like yours are the canaries in the coal mine with respect to measuring the oxygen of freedom that our democracy requires to survive. --Charles, 9/26/01

67. Jimmy Breslin is acting like an idiot. Right now we are at war. Bush is the president. He is to be respected as the President right now. I can't believe we're already nitpicking and taking political sides only 2 weeks after thousands of people have been killed. Frankly, I'm tired of the left and I'm tired of the right. Everyone needs to grow up, shut up and get with the program--which is supporting the country as best we can. Disagreements are fine, this is a free country But please at least have the decency to wait until the bodies are cold before we start this infantile banter. Regarding the so-called "peace movement." We've renamed it the BLAME AMERICA FIRST MOVEMENT. (See, we can do something right in California.) My banner reads: "Support the USA or kiss my middle-aged American Ass." --Elaine, 9/27/01

66. Don't be a fool!! Not keep watch on Bush because of terrorists? Are you kidding? To hide our heads up our whatzits at this time means the terrorists have actually SUCEEDED in destroying a part of the freedom they hate so vehemently! All the flag waving in the world can't make up for that!! As a consistent critic of the man I believe (i.e. I KNOW) stole the White House, I have tried to give him the absolute benefit of the doubt in our present time of crisis. Like everyone else, I also need a bit - no, a lot - of comforting and reassurance right now. So, I change the channel and hear the leader of the free world say this terrorism is "really real" and he will be "relentless in saving us from these tragedies." WHAT? HELLO? Is the porch light still off, George? It's painfully obvious that George W. can't think on his feet, or for that matter, in a hammock or riding on a carousel. This is of some concern when you figure these facts (1) With the destruction of the Pentagon, the military establishment has the greatest reason of all time to retaliate- talk about the proverbial "hitting home." (2) The Intelligence community, even with a $4 BILLION budget, messed up on this one BIG TIME- George Sr., of course, is one of the CIA's elders- talk about now having to save face (3) Pakistan now has nuclear weapons. (4) this administration is tied and partly comprised of war hawks who would still have us fighting the Vietman War Do you need any more reasons for not stopping your watch over George W????? --an editor of a seven-town weekly newspaper in Conn, 9/24/01

64. I think we should remain vigilant and critical of Bush and the rest of the administration, or else we run the risk of learning after this war is over just how screwed up things got along the way. There's always room for criticism and differences in opinion in this country, even when we're united. Being united doesn't mean we need to conform to only one ideology. It would be appropriate however, to steer away from any cheap shots. It doesn't matter anymore whether he says large words correctly or forgets grammar rules... I think a lot of people are having a hard time trying to find the words to say in this time of tragedy. It is still fair however to criticize the meaning behind his words. His constant references to cowboy-ish images are the last thing we need right now, because westerns have been used for ANTI-American propaganda for years, and we're just adding to the problem. We need to look rational and reasonable, and not like Billy the Kid or General Custer.

62. This is a democracy. In a democracy we debate the issues. Policy and courses of action are not dictated by the President and his cabinet alone, it is debated in the Congress AND should reflect the will of the people ("the consent of the governed").... I believe that we should rally behind America in a crisis.... In a democracy all voices need to be heard....In a democracy we must demand the truth from our government. We must not blindly follow...saber-rattling into a morass. There must be a thoughtful, careful, inclusive debate. In a democracy we must ALWAYS question our government. It would be unpatriotic and un-American not to.

I'm from New York and have never been a fan of Rudy Giuliani's -- but if one wants an example of true leadership, just take a look at what he has done. He has called upon adversaries as well as friends for help. He has been inclusive, decisive, compassionate and tireless. He has been in charge, but he has not been a dictator. He spoke of how wrong it would be to retaliate against Arab-Americans. He held long press conferences where he answered question after question with patience and honesty, and without relying on platitudes and rehearsed sound bites as if it were some sort of political rally. Yes. We should continue to ask questions. Because when we stop asking questions -- when we are no longer allowed to debate the issues -- we cease being a free society. --Nancy, 9/19/01

61. Today is Tuesday (9/18) and I see slowly, slowly all dissent to the policies of Bush being swept under the table. Today, I am more depressed than ever, as I see this happening. We will not get the news when we enter into this horrible war....I see a subtle shift in those I thought were people who thought as I did--questioning everything. Now I see that those whom I admired for bringing me the opportunity to examine all sides are gagging themselves. Please do not cave in. My resources to the truth are shrinking. The voices for truth are now worrying about themselves, and principle is put to rest behind the garbarge can....I must find other resources, if there are any left in a week or so. Please do not cave in to the dangers of wild, mindless nationalism. --Photobug

60. I believe all American voices should be heard no matter what events take place in this country. It's too late to change it now, it started in 1776. Thank you for another voice. --FCW

59. While I agree we need to all pull togeether at this terrible time, it cannot be used as an excuse to dismantle the Constitution. Commentators and newspapers need to continue to do their job. --SJ

58. PLEASE DON'T STOP. We need sane voices coming from someone in this time of trial. I am filled with much sadness and empathy for the families who have lost a loved one. I have lost a son so I know what anguish they suffer. I, too, want the terrorism controlled as well as possible but I am not foolish enough to believe we will in any way stop it entirely .... My real fear is that the right wing would like nothing better than to dispense with some of our freedoms.... Keep doing what you are doing and many of us will join in saying Bushwatch and others are the true patriots. --Florance

57. A million thanks for your stellar work! --Gary

56. I don't feel we should do a cease-fire on Bush, during a crisis or at any other time. The nation needs more than a show of unity; it needs a continual Bush reality-check. --Debi, 9/18/01

55. Please do maintain your vigilance as a watcher of those in power who may abuse it. It is essential that we maintain that spirit of freedom of communication and consent of the governed. If we throw that away, then what are we fighting to defend, to keep our carcases functioning for another 30 years of docile servility, drinking Starbucks while we flash our Adidas and live like sheep?... I turn to your site in a state of unsteadiness after what has happened. (I could see the towers burning from my office window. I used to be able to see them from my apartment. They were a part of my daily life.) And I am greatly comforted to see that you have not suddenly changed -- like Invasion of the Bodysnatchers -- into a war propagandist like much of the media. Your site fulfills an important public service function. It is important you maintain it. --David

54. I believe now, more than ever, that the Bush Administration needs to be thoroughly scrutinized for it's actions and intentions. Now is definitely not the time to cower away. The mainstream corporate media will continue to shower Bush and his minions with glowing affection, diverting us from exposure to important issues. The right-wing atrocities that started with this administration will not let up, they will worsen while little attention is being paid. This cannot be allowed in our Democracy. We mourn the dead, and grieve for the injured and their families. I pray that our nation finds the most peaceful and effective way to deal with this tragedy and punish those responsible....Don't allow us to be blindsided by reactionaries that, under the guise of patriotism, will take advantage of this horror to further their right-wing agenda. Our future begins today. The truth is the truth. Do not let it be suppressed under any circumstances. --Al

53. I mourn for the people who died, and their loved ones in this hour of grief. However, I also believe that questions need to be asked, and if we diefy our leaders then "we the people" ultimately lose control of our own government. --Ed

52. Thank you for your good work in maintaining this web site. --Lauren>p> 51. You are one of the very few in all the US media who are even asking the right question. Right now, we have an illegitimate unelected president in this country because the Supreme Court 5 chose to suspend its concern for judicial integrity in the interest of national unity. Let's not compound the disgrace by playing to popular patriotic expressons. I read you because you are honest and candid. --Paul

50. Please don't let up on your scrutiny of the President and the entire Administration. As we have heard today by the words of religious extremists Falwell and Robertson, many will use this tragedy as an excuse to further their own corrupt agendas at the expense of our civil liberties. We must be vigilant, especially in times of crisis. --Darryl

49. Do not give that man a free pass. --Karen

48. I have been reading you since the beginning. I don't write much because I like what I read. ...[Bush] should not get a free pass because of this tragedy....We need to be extra critical now to make sure we are not led further down the path of outdated cold war politics. America will recover from this, but we must change how we are viewed by the rest of the world. We need big thinkers and we need leader who can do this....More vigilance is required not less. --Joe

47. . This is a difficult and frightening time for America. We need to show our support for whoever is in the White House. But history has shown that absolute power corrupts absolutely. Some latitude needs to be given with regards to this crisis but not blind and not total latitude. Opportunities, opinions, advice still needs to be brought forward since Mr. Bush's "team" is predominately carry-overs from the cold war mentality of Reagan and Bush I and will need honest, thoughtful, and accurate oversight. --Norman

46. It bothers me that this terrorist act will legitamize smirk as the president. The Newsweek cover story about the supreme court debacle will never get the attention it deserves, and the administration will be free to steal our socialse curity money....You need to keep going after smirk and his policies, because now even fewer people will be. It's IMPORTANT that you keep the light shining where it should be. --Vance

45. . We are at a historical point similar to Sarajevo in 1914. An act of terrorism may get us into a war the scope of which nobody can predict or control. It is particularly important to remain vigilant over a leadership that fails any test of democratic legitimacy and has demonstrated an absolutely pathological willingness to distribute lies in furtherance of criminal policy, even when those lies are apparent to all. Bush has shut down any pretense of public debate in his statement that he believes what he believes and he believes that what he believes is right. --KH

44. Though some tact may be necissary during this period I still see Bush as the worst of available choices to be the head of state during good times let alone a crisis of this nature. I don't doubt for one secord that he will use this to push his agenda forward as he beleives with the conviction of a fanatic that he is right. As your headline suggests it is possible to be loyal and oppose at the same time. We are loyal to the country but oppose the man. Bush despite all the symbols attached to him is just a man and should be judged as such. I beleive you and your associates have the tact and ability to maintain your steadfast examination of the man called Bush whilst this crisis exists. --Robert

43. When William Safire can write that the plane "did a 360" (a complete circle??) away from the White House and we are expected to take that as gospel that there really, really was a creditable threat to Bush, you can't stop tell the truth and giving the view from the other side of the aisle.... --Cathy

42. Keep up the truth. If the truth involves criticism of Mr. Bush so be it. The media that allowed the Florida election irregularities pass with next to no comment is the same media we are now relying on for information. From what I can ascertain, they are still just putting out the propaganda of the right wing interests. --Diane

41. ...You keep doing what you're best at: reporting to the world what really is going on in our government. -- Theresa

40.I think Bush should still be watched and watched closely. I still don't trust him when it comes to domestic policies.... --Lynn

39. I'd like to voice my support of full disclosure regarding bush. Even a tragedy such as the recent loss of life in nyc and dc does not warrant any curtailment of our civil liberties, and observation and commentary on the actions of the person sitting in the presidency is of the utmost importance.... --Chuck

38. My God, if the already-weak Dems start caving further because we must be blindly loyal to The Constitution Raper, then America is lost forever. I can be ferociously loyal to America without it having anything to do with Old 5-to-4. I can support whatever action is deemed necessary against the perpetrators of these acts without it having anything to do with The Wooden Headed One. It scares the hell out of me to see all of these Dems caving and suddenly allowing this imposter to achieve the title of "President" because some wackos bombed us! How the heck does that bestow legitimacy on The Fool? Why are the two intertwined? And if we are told to rally around this dangerous imposter just because of the emotion of this moment, we are in effect gifting him with a blank check, with no questions asked ~ no questions asked, for THIS administration??!? Get ready for Star Wars II, because what Dem is going to stand up and say, "That dollar amount is too high to pay for military protection?" Too bad there is no rainy day fund, because The Boss's Son gave it all to his rich friends. If criticizing Blinky is now going to be seen as unpatriotic, and if to do anything less than support anything he chooses to do at this horrendous time is grounds for treason, we are lost. Democracy will have been totally eradicated by the bombings and the terrorists will have succeeded beyond their wildest dreams. If we can't figure out how to separate our feelings for The Backslapper from the atrocities of yesterday, then the little piece of America that survived on December 12th will shrivel up and die because we abandoned her. --Lisa

37. I'm a devoted reader of your site. Your question is profound. To what extent should we show opposition to the president in a time of national crisis, especially if we feel he is illegitimate? It is our duty to support our government in time of crisis, but our fundamental duty is to support the constitution in all times. We support the gov't while it remains an extension of the people's will (ie: of/by/for). So, perhaps some degree of compromise is appropriate. While the content/links in your site are an important service, you could change the tone somewhat: maybe less ridicule in the links and commentary, but continue to use both to provide information and encourage discussion. My impression is that you've already followed this course. --Chris

36. As to continuing Bush Watch as it was before last Tuesday, remember that the world changed that day in a way that has propelled everyone into rising above his or her own self interest, which has been the main cause of all the problems that the Bush administration has projected onto the rest of us. The stakes now are much higher than they ever have been and every politician knows it. If any of them takes an action that has even a hint of political maneuvering about it, he or she will have many hard questions to answer and consequences to face. With that in mind, please continue with Bush Watch with the inclusion of the benefit of the doubt. Nothing like this has ever happened before and the current administration needs time to figure out what and how to do the right thing. However, if something doesn't seem right, we citizens will need to know it. "The greatest foe to tyranny and injustice is an informed citizenry." --Brad

35. [This is how BUZZFLASH answered the "loyal opposition" question today:] Like most Americans, BuzzFlash.com is numbed by the terrorist assault on our fellow citizens, resulting in injury and death beyond our comprehension. Reading the stories and columns that we have posted over the last 48 hours has been a grueling exercise, one that most Americans are experiencing by watching the television news. We are trying to strike the right tone in our coverage -- and we know that not all of our readers will be satisfied. But if BuzzFlash.com is about anything, it is about recognizing that that we are one large, diverse community in this great country. Now is the time for us to join together in a sharing of grief and a recommitment to our strength as a democracy. Now is the time to reaffirm that we are interdependent upon each other.

Thousands perished in a senseless act. We can remember them best by making sure that the flame of freedom continues to glow brightly. The Statue of Liberty still stands proudly in New York Harbor, even as the dust and debris from the World Trade Center Towers crawls toward it. In the days ahead, BuzzFlash will strive to strike a balance between the solemn, horrifying reality that we are all confronting and the continuation of honest dissent, when appropriate. For a moment, this horrifying event has united as a nation -- in our mourning and in our resolve.

Difficult challenges lie before us. The task of vigorously reaffirming democracy is an ongoing effort. It is what distinguishes as a nation and is the hallmark of our heritage. BuzzFlash.com will be an active participant in that process.

34. Despite the tragedy we have seen, we must hold fast to the Freedom to speak out for what is right. A democracy can stand only if we refuse to silence ourselves when the monied interests bid us "hold our tongues," and "speak no ill" of those who serve only themselves and their cronies at the expense of "We, the People." --Errol

33. I with regret cancelled my Bushwatch subscription today. While I think we do need to check into the policies we have followed that may have supported these terrorists now is not the time for recrimination. I cannot in good conscience continue to receive these emails [of your headlines page] after what has occurred. I fully and wholeheartedly support our president in what must follow. I only hope that this time we will be allowed to do what is neccessary to wipe this evil from the face of the earth. This is a time of crisis and we need to rally round our president whether he was elected or selected. We need to take action now and we need to be united in this effort. After the business at hand as been taken care of, then we should examine the policies and reasons why these monies were given. In times of war, and this is war, we must put political differences aside and present a united front. To do anything less is to betray the thousands who have died. I don't like Bush never have probably never will but I will support him and America while we are at war. It is imperative that these monstersbe stopped not only for the U. S. but for the world. I hope that you can put aside your political differences and join with me in support of our president and the actions which now must follow. Until these animals are made to see that we will not stand for terrorism none of us will be safe. --GW

32. I understand the sentiment of those who would have us all pull together to form a united front against those who would attempt to destroy us, and I believe we have. Like most people I talk to I'm filled with inchoate anger and frustration about my inability to even know the identity of these vermin. We must find those who planned this, those who funded this, those who instigated this, and bring them to justice.

However I'm extremely worried about some rhetoric that is being used. Despite what has been said this is not a war, This is a realization of one of the many scenarios that have been promulgated over the last 20 years of what terrorists. It is a vulnerability of an open society but we will not save America by setting aside civil liberties as Trent Lott suggested. We will not save America by giving Bush a blank check. Bush is a symbol. A symbol of what happens when we don't preserve our freedom and we don't pay attention to those who would control the reins of power.

All of America wants the heinous felons punished, not all of us are will to suspend our distrust of current White House resident. It is the responsibility of all to comment on the actions of our government. They are no more than our temporary employees, we must do our best to ensure that they are doing the job to our satisfaction. I heard him speak at the Pentagon in what was described as an speech of encouragement. Being afraid of those who "don't share our values" is not what I need to hear. Sadly Bush is now the symbol of America to the world, let us make sure his actions are to our long term benefit, and not harm. Please continue your website and its current methods. I've been a reader since the election and find the news I need at your site. --Charles

31. Report without malice. Purvey the truth. Business as usual. As awkward as it may seem, this tragedy has made a Statesman out of the Shrub. God bless America! --Mitch

30. I don't believe you go far enough....The [terrorist attacks] don't change the fact that he was illegally-installed, and he's STILL not my President. Keep up the good work. --Wes

29. I am only seventeen years old, and yet I have lost my innocence. It's still hard to express in words, but maybe you would like to hear something I wrote in my diary yesterday after the attacks. I believe what I wrote still has relevence

9-11-01... Today, September eleventh, two thousand and one. A date wherelives were lost, where innocence was replaced by burning rage, and where the actions of a few saw the destruction of many. September eleventh, two thousand and one. Forever burned into a generations mind as an impossibility, but the acceptance of a world gone mad. September eleventh, two thousand one. For a moment, it all must have seen so normal to everyone. Until a terrific sound of grating engines and melting steel hit those below and inside, and a massive wave of heat sent flaming shrapnel tumbling to the streets below. September eleventh, two thousand and one. A date forever marked with the black stamp of darkness. A date which will never arise from the shadow of infamy. At eight a.m., the day progressing normall, I barely heard Mr. Smith barge into the class room and mumble something about the World Trade Center, located in New York City. He turned on the television and I looked up. There is a warm-up time for a TV, a time when the unit charges and begin's it's display. It was during this time that my innocence enjoyed it's last breath on this planet. As soon as the picture came in, I stood aghast. The WTC was engulfed in smoke. The other tower appeared fine. During the half-second my brain tried to create an answer and register what I was seeing, a plane flew into the picture. Another half-moment, and a bright fireball erupted from the second building. It was 8:03 our time. I had just witnessed hundreds... if not thousands... of people dying while I sat, mouth agape.

It seems so unreal, now. Even then, there was no photo-realistic quality to it. I remember the morning well. The deathly silence. In our quiet solitude, we mourned the dead. But the terror was not over. After these events, second hour brought us more tagic news. The Pentagon had been rammed by a hijacked passenger jet. More deaths. Before the hour had ended, the fist WTC to be attacked was gone. It had disintegrated into a pile of dust, rubble and fire. Between second and third hour, I collected my Psychology books and came to class. In three hundred seconds, the second tower collapsed. In a blink of an eye, anyone alive in the building mere seconds ago were no more than a memory. Gone in less than five minutes. No more. This tragedy in America, this assault on everything decent, has not gone unnoticed. Though a minor victory may have been won, these terrorists have started a war. For years we have been seen as a nation of fools and corrupt peacemakers. But now, with the deaths of our husbands and wives, sons and daughters, friends and relatives, those who instigated this rebellion will learn that we will not fall. We may die, we may harm ourselves, but we will not fail the memory of our dead. For we are all related: black, white, hispanic, Indian, Arab, men, women, adults and children. And when you harm one of us, all of us will harm you. We shall not be circumvented, we shall not be diverted, we shall not be bribed. We will rise aginst our aggressors and teach them the value of peace. And if they do not wish to know that, we shall give them a lesson in war they shall never forget.

PS - I know this makes me sound like a warmonger, but really, I am only mourning my fallen citizens. The innocent had no place being targetted for these attacks, and I firmly believe those who instigated this villany should be routed and brought to justice. --Jonathan

28. It was kind of you to acknowledge a members request to lay off Bush. But, you do run "The Bush Watch" and he or she can go elsewhere for their information if they find "the truth" too overwhelming. After all, basically, your work involves making hard to find truths available. Your personal commentaries are just that: personal. Take em or leave em. I appreciate your thoughts and work. Please don't stop or change. This is exactly what the current administration would desire.... --Susan

27. I currently live in self-imposed exile in Korea because of this man claiming to be the President. I will not be returning to the U.S. for any reason until we hold free and fair Presidential elections. I believe that these attacks are partly due to his minions and his foreign policy. Stop criticizing Bush over my dead body. Now is the time to intensify. This man had a hand in creating this mess by making us appear weak. --Matt

26. If we truly believe in something called democracy then it is not only our right but our obligation as Citizens to ask the tough questions and demand answers. We should all endeavor to seek out the truth behind the policies and motivations of our leadership no matter how ugly or painful it may turn out to be. We have that right and that ability and that is what separates us from so much of the world. If I am not mistaken, we are still a country "of the people and for the people." --Francis

The terrorist attacks are an incomprehensible horror every American is struggling to come to terms with. The entire day the country awaited the words of the president. We were waiting for leadership and the short addresses and teleprompted speeches we received left me with more questions, more worry, and more heartache for this country than ever before. I would really love to convince myself that we are "in good hands" and that somehow everything will be alright. Maybe that has yet to be seen. Americans should be and are uniting to ask questions, console, debate and help each other through this time. Giving a "free pass" to our government or to anyone during this crisis and quite possibly "war" is the equivalent of giving up the very freedom that was attacked. Let us pray (if you are inclined to) and comfort our countrymen. Let us all come together in very best of ways but let us not give away our rights and duties as Citizens. 25. Re. your pondering whether to continue with Bush criticism, I can relate to your dilema. I've recently just put two anti-Bush bumper stickers on my truck and now feel like taking them off. In fact, I probably will. The Bush agenda will continue to roll on, but he will most likely not commit much time to social issues while our country looks for the terrorists. I imagine that as soon as he starts once again to seriously push his right-wing agenda, the gloves can come off. It won't be like the regular sparring we all did before this attack. Instead, it will be muted and directed at those things that really get us going. The reality is that no one is going to feel like bashing Bush wholesale for a while. In time, despite the forecast of a prolonged response to the attack, things will, piece-by-piece revert back to Bush again pushing his warped agenda. Even in an atmosphere where we are "suppose" to be united behind the President, people will tire of a need to be respectful. --Robert

24. All Americans rightly condemn this vicous act of terrorism. No American can condone this heinous act. HOWEVER, we do not need to lie down and implicity believe or trust everything that Bush jr. does or says. He has done NOTHING to build trust or faith in the average American. His very obvious weakness' and unpreparedness for the most important job in the world have become glaringly obvious. There is a big difference between patriotism and jingoism and as we get close to war, we need an informed and thinking public. Keep your web site up and running and give all Americans a forum for discussion. As we have come to learn from past events when dealing with the government and the Bush sr. and jr. administrations anything is possible. Good Luck. --Gracy

23. If we truly believe in something called democracy then it is not only our right but our obligation as Citizens to ask the tough questions and demand answers. We should all endeavor to seek out the truth behind the policies and motivations of our leadership no matter how ugly or painful it may turn out to be. We have that right and that ability and that is what separates us from so much of the world. If I am not mistaken, we are still a country "of the people and for the people."

The terrorist attacks are an incomprehensible horror every American is struggling to come to terms with. The entire day the country awaited the words of the president. We were waiting for leadership and the short addresses and teleprompted speeches we received left me with more questions, more worry, and more heartache for this country than ever before. I would really love to convince myself that we are "in good hands" and that somehow everything will be alright. Maybe that has yet to be seen.

Americans should be and are uniting to ask questions, console, debate and help each other through this time. Giving a "free pass" to our government or to anyone during this crisis and quite possibly "war" is the equivalent of giving up the very freedom that was attacked. Let us pray (if you are inclined to) and comfort our countrymen. Let us all come together in very best of ways but let us not give away our rights and duties as Citizens. --Fran

22. Do not give Bush a bye at this time, or ever. We're gonna see if the man can fish or cut bait, and my suspicion is that he can do neither, however I have no choice but to give him the chance, and who knows, maybe this situation will finally force the man to full sobriety. True, it's a dicey edge to walk, but somebody's gotta do it, and apparently you're elected. I'd suggest making the term "The Loyal Opposition" a permanent part of your home page. I'd also suggest taking off any images of Bush that have been Photoshopped, like the tongue-tied one on the "Bushisms" link. Frankly, I've not liked that one anyway, it always grates on me. Bush is such a slamdunk it's a shame to water down the message, if you know what I mean. Keep that flag flying on the home page as well, in the weeks and months to come you gonna see you just think you've seen fundamentalism at work. I like to see the flag waving as well, I'm not a total cynic, but after going to "war" for this country for no reason & to bad effect, I just can't get it up for blind patriotism any more. (Not that I was blindly patriotic when I went, just seriously naive). But at 54 I'm still naive, because I still keep expecting the best out of people. Occasionally I am rewarded. I've got a non-lethal serious gut problem went to bed at 7AM Monday morning and got up around 1:15PM. (Got a TV but no cable, the computer was off, and besides, it all was just starting to happen anyway.) When I booted the notebook and looked at what was filling in on the AT&T homepage I start with, I just sat there and looked for maybe 10-15 seconds, in that way where you know it's the truth but it's so big you gotta double, triple check. My first thought was: "So, it's finally happened." --Ken

21. I am SO SICK of hearing 'we have to unite behind Bush' and give him a free ride, apparently. NO WE DO NOT and NO WE SHOULD NOT!! He'll get ENOUGH butt-kissing from the Republican owned media, and Dems in DC...at least for a while. He should NOT have carte blanche with social security, the poor, elderly, the environment, defense, education - or ANY other of his policy just because of this admittedly sad attack....PEOPLE are this country - NOT shrub. We CAN UNITE behind our country by UNITING behind its PEOPLE - you know, all those people who VOTED but their votes DIDN'T COUNT in November 2000? THEY are the country. The ones who died in the WTC and the rescue workers and medical teams working 24 x 7 to recover and rescue them - THOSE are the country. The ones flying all the way from Indianapolis and California to assist in rescue attempts - THOSE people are our country...not shrub.... --Seven

20. Jerry, Just keep doin' what you're doin'. Don't hold back - hold that bill of rights high! You're a true patriot.... --Larry

19. Don't let up on the economics. Criticizing Bush for bad policy has nothing to do with the disaster, nor does it have anything to do with his response to it. That's just herd instinct....Stay on his butt. --Rich

18.I, too, have been having a hard time dealing with the need to adjustment by contempt for G.W.Bush. I agree with the letter writer that we should cease to refer to him as "resident Bush" or other such names. But definitely you should not cease to question and criticize his administration. --Brian

17. As I visit sites like Democratic Underground, Buzzflash.com, and Bushwatch I have noticed some toning down. At DemocraticUnderground.com their statement was short, saying that they were stopping their News commentaries for a while. I liked some of their statement & it fit my thoughts so I paraphrased it on my site, www.linkcrusader.com . I had to change the part where they said they supported 'the President' because I consider Bush as illegitimate. I understand the sentiment to some degree, since Bush fills that position and some people need a focus of sorts in this crisis. But I have seen this blind reaction before, and I hope that Democrats in Congress have enough integrity and honor to not trust Bush completely with the budget or with our remaining freedoms as Americans, like freedom of speech, freedom of the press, etc.

On Buzzflash.com the headlines now are 95% about the 'Attack'. Still 3 or 4 articles about other issues. The 'HUMOR' section is not there for now. Even on my site I have added a short statement at the top of my Home Page and Anti-Bush page. I list phone numbers and websites for Blood Donations, Hospitals, Info Hotlines, etc. But the 700+ Anti-Bush site links and other links are still there. Two cartoonists, Rayberry & Noorvik, have ceased their anti-Bush cartoons for now, but I expect them to resume in a short time. As for "until the worst of this crisis is concluded" I will prepare my new links, changes, etc. and wait maybe a week or two, until calmer, clearer heads prevail. Right now it seems like 'military madness' (Nuke 'em all!) and extreme 'patriotism' (My President, Right or Wrong!) are a reality that each one of us will have to deal with.

The Right-wingers did not wait even 24 hours, though. The Newsmax.com article blaming Clinton for the terrorism is loathesome. Just when we are trying to unite as Americans and regain our footing these lowlifes are trying to focus the hatred and anger toward Clinton (and liberals). The URL to check this out is http://conwebwatch.tripod.com/stories/2001/terrorblame.html

I must add that I depend on bushwatch.com and buzzflash.com for news and information every day. Both sites have not let me down. I applaud you for continuing to make the best news headlines and information available to us all. In conclusion I guess each one of us (Liberal Web Activists) will handle this in our own way. And the time frame is up to each of us also. Most important of all I wish to say that our motives for action are sincere and honest concern for the direction that our government and our world takes. The compassion for others, including all life on this planet, are what mainly distinguishes us from the right-wingers. They seem to be motivated mostly by hate and greed. But that's just my take on it. -- In Solidarity, Bill Cavanaugh

16. No free passes. Period. ABC's Jennings and CBS' Rather both questioned where the Stealth Resident was on September 11th, and why he was not publicly taking charge of a very bad situation. The other reporters who have questioned the AF1 cover story are also having some difficulties with Bush's overall performance during this crisis. In stark contrast, Mayor Giuliani has been on the scene in New York City almost from the first minute, and IMHO, he has done an excellent job. There's a man that has earned my personal respect despite the way he practices politics. If we already have questions about his inability to understand what he has done to our once-booming economy, among other things, then why should we also not have some questions about whether or not he should be given unlimited powers under what will basically be the War Powers Act? As I write this email, there are several senior Congressmen who appear willing to only give him a resolution of limited scope. No, Politex...no free passes. How he handles this issue will define the remainder of his one-term Residency. But, if he screws this one up, the price America pays will be a lot higher than the economic price we are just beginning to pay for his earlier decisions. --Jim

15. I think it is important that we realize when we fight for Democracy we are fighting to keep sites like bushwatch.com to exist and carry-on. We are are fighting for the right to burn the flag. Do these actions make us unamerican? I think not, they make us more American. You give Bush et. al. a free pass then the terrorists win and democracy loses. You Must Not Stop. --Mark

14. [From Kevin Cunningham's "Political Strikes" 'toon site. ] "Don't worry. We heard ya! Givin' Bush Jr. a break from the cartoons for a day or so. (As if the republican hatemongers EVER gave Clinton a break in times of crisis. But that's why we're better than them. We'll put the nation first and ease up on a president we don't like... Even if he is an illegitimately appointed fraud)"

13. I rely on your site for information about GWBush that doesn't make it through the mainstream outlets. Please continue to report on other issues aside from the terrorist attack. I don't believe displaying a show of unity is as important as being vigilant in reporting and making connections between people and events. As you wrote: "Former Sec. of State Warren Christopher mentioned yesterday that the terrorists will have won if they have gotten us to act undemocratically in the name of preserving democracy." Criticism is part of the job of being President. The nation *does* deserve a show of unity -- just not around someone who has been placed into the seat of democractic power by undemocractic means. Please continue to shed light on the innards of the Bush administration; you're truly filling a void by compiling so much information. A quick question, though - are you saving copies of the pages you're linking to? I'd hate for the more controversial stories to just disappear under the weight of some weird Ashcroft interpretation. --Tim

12. Ever since I saw a picture of George Bush on the Daily Show in 1999, I just knew there was something phony about him. And here in New York, everyone else was saying the same thing. When he became president, I really thought it would be the end of any hope for the working class man. And you know what? So far it has been. I have nothing but disdain for the man, in everything from foreign policy to the envioronment. But everything changed on September 11th...

I was up late for school. Having just turned 18, I guess my parents thought that they shouldnt have to wake me up in the morning anymore and I should do it myself. As it turned out, I was late for school, and seeing I was already late, I decided to skip first period and get breakfeast in the cafeteria. "Hey man", my friend Sam says. Him and Nash are sitting drinking coffee, I join them after getting a croissant. "Yo you heard what happened"? "what, we got a test or something? its only the second day..." "Nah yo. There was an airplane accident, it hit the twin towers"! "Man, you all take to many drugs, I gotta go sign a late pass, peace". I left the cafeteria, chuckling to myself, about how screwed up those kids were. I waited in the lobby till second period started, and went to the class. I was practically asleep when it was finished, but as I left, I saw that the lobby was packed. Curious, I made my way through the crowd to find out what the fuss was. Then a giant tv screen came into view, and on it, the World Trade Center collapsing. I honestly couldn't believe what I was seeing. I found myself gasping for air, in a giant panic, getting a cold sweat, my throat getting full. Not here.

People were crying around me, girls hugging eachother, teachers leaving, half the kids whipping out there cell phones. It was against the rules ot use cell phones in the school, but none of that mattered anymore. I stumbled to the bathroom, and locked myself in a stall. Nah, none of it could be true. I had been to the world trade center many times, wondered at it's magnificent power and grandeur. It was truely invincible. Then it all blanked out. I went through the rest of the day(the teachers told us that as we were uptown, there was no need to evacuate. All I could think about was my family, my father worked downtown. At three o'clock, I raced outside, and what I saw the scariest thing in my life. In the distance, I could see the smoke, so far away, yet covering so much of the sky. There were many people on the streets, using there cell phones, running, it was true panic. Then a sonic boom hit me and everyone else. Three F/A 16's flew in formation above. I had heard there were also destroyers in the hudson river. Manhattan became a warzone.

In the end, over 200 firefighters dead. The mayor Guliani(another person I despised) had been only a few blocks away when the second plane hit, and found himself running along with all the other New Yorkers. The all powerful bunker that the mayor was building, which he said could "resist nuclear a ttack" was completely and thoroghly destroyed. It was the closest thing I have ever experienced to complete anarchy. And you know what? I felt pretty glad I had a president and a a country looking out for us. I listened to Bush's adress later that night, and I thought it was very bland and didn't say much. However, it is a time like this where I say to myself, "f#ck campaign finance reform, tax cuts, social security." Right now we have to stand together, because this is a bigger thing then all of that. I just think we should all ignore our differences, don't think about how much of an a$$hole Bush is, and just unite. After that, I think we will all be a little safer. I guess it's hard to understand, but if you were on Manhatttan Island when all of this happened, maybe you would understand. -- John

11. Discussing our response to this issue is important, and discourse should not be prevented for any reason. Questions must be asked and their is no disloyalty in raising issues. Anything else is repression. --Doug

10. Although we might feel that tempering our discourse about Bush is appropriate at this time, we cannot and should not remain silent. This event is tragic in it's magnitude and all Americans should grieve for those who have suffered and died. For those who have watched at any length, you have seen not only the horror of this event but also the spin. From news reports that place the blame for this attack on former President Clinton, to networks arguing for an immediate military response. (On who ? and where ?). We cannot remain silent during this period. The fact is that we should increase our presence and our voices to identify policies that Bush and company attempt to implement, that usurp freedoms we now enjoy.

Among the areas that could be affected by policies of Bush: The Official Secrets Act, an attempt by some members of congress and Bush, to keep all information labeled secret from seeing the light of day. Things such as the "Pentagon Papers", the connection between the contras and drug smuggling, would never have seen sunshine, if an "official secrets act" were to become law. Star Wars II the sequel. Watch for a rush to not only put a missile defense in place, but also a huge build up of the military. Because the missile defense would not have prevented this attack, look for a large increase in spending for the NSA, CIA and FBI . In the CIA, look for increased use of operatives that are human rights violators(Sadem of Iraq worked for the CIA), terrorists (Ben Laden was a CIA operative), drug smugglers (Noriega of Panama was a CIA operative) and others whose personal interests are counter to the national interests of our country. Also, in the NSA, CIA and FBI, increased use of surveillance both foreign and domestic, not only on individuals but on computers and email. Today the drum beat was to allow NSA to have the magic "key" for all encryption .

No Jerry, don't silence your site. The country needs not only to keep vigilant from terrorist but to keep the same vigilance on domestic abuses of power by individuals and groups seeking to abandon our individual freedoms for the good of their political agendas. Your coverage of the attack on the country has been fair and nonpartisan. Please do not silence the news stories and commentary that make your site an oasis from the spin of the corporate media. This is a terrible time in our country, your silence about Bush and company, would only add to our sorrows. --Tim T.

9. A political cease-fire would be a great mistake. The Republicans would love to have us silence ourselves.... --Elaine

8. We need to know. I just read the article about how Bush ignored the recommendations of the bi partisan commitee that had been studying domestic terrorism for 2 and 1/2 years. If Clinton were president, Rush and co would be blaming him right now. People need to hear the truth. --Margaret

7. Hell no don't let up.... --Ron

6. Despite the tragedy we have seen, we must hold fast to the Freedom to speak out for what is right. A democracy can stand only if we refuse to silence ourselves when the monied interests bid us "hold our tongues," and "speak no ill" of those who serve only themselves and their cronies at the expense of "We, the People." --Errol

5. I with regret cancelled my Bushwatch subscription today. While I think we do need to check into the policies we have followed that may have supported these terrorists now is not the time for recrimination. I cannot in good conscience continue to receive these emails after what has occurred. I fully and wholeheartedly support our president in what must follow. I only hope that this time we will be allowed to do what is neccessary to wipe this evil from the face of the earth. This is a time of crisis and we need to rally round our president whether he was elected or selected. We need to take action now and we need to be united in this effort. After the business at hand as been taken care of, then we should examine the policies and reasons why these monies were given. In times of war, and this is war, we must put political differences aside and present a united front. To do anything less is to betray the thousands who have died. I don't like Bush never have probably never will but I will support him and America while we are at war. It is imperative that these monstersbe stopped not only for the U. S. but for the world. I hope that you can put aside your political differences and join with me in support of our president and the actions which now must follow. Until these animals are made to see that we will not stand for terrorism none of us will be safe. --G.W.

4. I very much respect your feelings and wishes, Mr. W. Just to be sure you're writing about e-mails received from Bush Watch, what we sent out yesterday were copies of our headlines page. As you know, on this page we simply call your attention to stories and commentary of the day, most of which appear in mainstream publications. best wishes, jerry politex

3. I understand the sentiment of those who would have us all pull together to form a united front against those who would attempt to destroy us, and I believe we have. Like most people I talk to I'm filled with inchoate anger and frustration about my inability to even know the identity of these vermin. We must find those who planned this, those who funded this, those who instigated this, and bring them to justice. However I'm extremely worried about some rhetoric that is being used. Despite what has been said this is not a war, This is a realization of one of the many scenarios that have been promulgated over the last 20 years of what terrorists. It is a vulnerability of an open society but we will not save America by setting aside civil liberties as Trent Lott suggested. We will not save America by giving Bush a blank check. Bush is a symbol. A symbol of what happens when we don't preserve our freedom and we don't pay attention to those who would control the reins of power.

All of America wants the heinous felons punished, not all of us are will to suspend our distrust of current White House resident. It is the responsibility of all to comment on the actions of our government. They are no more than our temporary employees, we must do our best to ensure that they are doing the job to our satisfaction. I heard him speak at the Pentagon in what was described as an speech of encouragement. Being afraid of those who "don't share our values" is not what I need to hear. Sadly Bush is now the symbol of America to the world, let us make sure his actions are to our long term benefit, and not harm. Please continue your website and its current methods. I've been a reader since the election and find the news I need at your site. --Charles

2. Your voice has been a salvation for those of us who know the election was won by a 5 to 4 vote. We have been deceived since W entered politics. Your voice has been consistent in telling the world truth, not [hiding] the truth. Continue calling the stink stink. --Stephen

1. It seems reasonable to give partisan issues a rest. But it also seems neccesary to honestly question whether Bush is an adequate leader. I detest Ashcroft as A.G., for example, but I have little doubt that he is competent to lead a criminal investigation, and I'm willing to hold off on the rest for the time being. Bush however, is already falling short.... By all means focus only on the relevant issues for now: but if the situation calls for a Churchill, and we have a Chamberlain, the truth shouldn't be another casualty.... --Johannes