The Arab world has long accused the United States of a double standard when it comes to dealing with the world – freedom in our country while we support any kind of regime necessary to enforce our interests abroad.

Of the many good reasons for voting against President Bush in next November’s election one of the best is that voting for someone else will show those parts of the world that have doubts about democracy that freedom works and that it is possible to peacefully change the political system.

This may be the best way to help build democracy in Iraq and to get European nations involved in the effort.

Dan Chabot

Hampden