To see the Republican Party assume or co-opt the mantle of change is the most disturbing aspect of this presidential campaign. The assertion is so preposterous, the lie so great and bold, that any attempts to counter it appear feeble. Perhaps, rather than wasting precious time attacking this epiphany, the Democratic Party should embrace it, accepting all that has been proclaimed by the Republican candidates and their surrogates at face value, and challenging them to demonstrate their commitments to openness, honesty and change.

It is time for us to call John McCain to task for his statements. He pledged that a McCain administration will serve as a model for government transparency. Is his campaign’s refusal to allow the media to question Gov. Palin an indication of the transparency we can expect?

With great vigor, Sen. McCain vowed to continue his maverick ways and expose the names of those who would use earmarks to fleece the American people. To date, Sen. Obama is the only one he has yet “exposed.” Sen. McCain could reassure me that he is sincere by naming those of his party yet in Congress who are responsible for the abuses he rails against.

Michael Smith

Lubec