Where Kerry stands

Now that Sen. John Kerry has announced his running mate, one must be curious about the positions of Sen. John Edwards and where he stands on key issues. The frustrating aspect about the nomination is that we are, as voters, still unsure as to where Kerry himself stands.

Kerry claims to be an avid hunter, yet receives a poor rating from the National Rifle Association. He claims to represent conservative values and yet is rated as the most liberal senator by the National Journal. It is well known that Kerry voted in favor of the war, then against the important funding of the troops. These inconsistencies and flip-flopping are a frustrating reality confronting anyone taking an honest look at Kerry’s record.

Edwards joined Kerry in voting against the funding for troops in Afghanistan and Iraq and this is certainly a concerning fact. Combined with his lack of experience, it is clear that this is not the kind of leadership America needs. President Bush has provided steady leadership and firm resolve in the war on terror – the kind of integrity and consistency that we need.

James Elliott Jr.

Bangor