Is it possible to work with President Bush?

Why is his weakness (stubbornness) perceived by many as a strength? He has already gotten rid of a number of moderate Republicans. Why? There is only one way with Bush – his way or the highway.

This flaw in attitude has alienated many of our allies. It is a flaw that has changed the unity of our nation into a divided one. History relates that a nation united stands; but divided falls.

Kenneth Durkee’s letter, “Hand that cures us” (BDN, Nov. 16), is full of questionable facts concerning big drug companies as well as trial lawyers and tort reform. He says: “Let’s not bite the hand that cures us.” I say: “Let’s keep their hands out of our pockets.”

The price gouging by drug companies of the middle class and senior citizens is criminal. As a Korean War veteran, I’ve felt the sting of government cutbacks involving both drugs and staff at VA clinics. The drugs I needed are not available because the Veterans Medical Center was refused access to them.

This leaves me paying higher prices for the same drugs that are available in Canada for less. Is it because of trial lawyers or is it because of the billions in profits realized by drug companies? Has Bush done anything to remedy this? I think not.

If you got rid of the outrageous fees and awards from lawsuits, it wouldn’t make a tad of difference because health care providers would pocket the profits. How effective is Bush’s trickle-down tax policy? Not much of that trickle ever reached the middle class.

It’s not bellyaching but concern about Bush’s handling of this country. The fate of our country is in his hands. Concern is not whining.

Charles V. Mays

Holden