To the editor:

It’s obvious Bush and Cheney have put America in a big mess in Iraq and we might as well get used to the idea we will probably face other conflicts in the future as a result of the Bush/Cheney policies.

The nation’s current war in Iraq is being called “pre-emptive.” That is exactly what it was. The only problem is that it was an unjustified attack on the wrong country and it is leading North Korea, Iran and probably other countries to conclude that American citizens would not stand still for yet another pre-emptive war and they can therefore do as they please.

The Iraqis had nothing to do with 9-11. If Bush hadn’t been so eager to invade Iraq for personal reasons, he could have explored more reliable and peaceful options.

Now Bush has us in a big mess, which was unnecessary and has cost us the lives of more than 900 soldiers, plus 6,000 wounded. Oil prices are rising due in some part to the war’s demand on oil supplies. Our national debt is in the billions and climbing. Our children and grandchildren will be paying off this huge debt for years to come in a slowed or depressed national economy.

We must bring an end to the Bush administration before our country is completely ruined.

Les Blevins,

Lawrence