There can be no doubt that President Bush has violated the law in authorizing wiretapping of American citizens. A president who violates our laws is subject to impeachment.

However, the initiation of impeachment proceedings would not be productive. Even if he were removed from office, an outcome highly unlikely with this Congress, to have him succeeded by Dick Cheney would scarcely be an improvement.

More importantly, such proceedings would be a diversion from the really important job that faces the American voter. This is an election year and the control of the Congress must be taken away from the rubber-stamp Republican Party.

In Maine we have cause to be grateful that we have Reps. Mike Michaud and Tom Allen to represent us. We need to be sure that we continue to have that cause for gratitude and do everything we can to re-elect them this fall.

Julian H. Orr

Bangor