'Let's Roll' inspirational

The state of our union has never been stronger," or so our war-time president said in his address. It might be true Congress has presented a united front recently, but with upcoming elections, tensions will be revealed. Let's hope its not too late. After the horrible attack, President George W. Bush has been left to rule with little interference -- hiding behind the theory of fighting evil.\nThe State of the Union address was enough to show where Bush's incompetence lies, and sadly, where he is not to be trusted. The speech ignored many domestic concerns and ways to fulfill promises such as a Patients' Bill of Rights. The president received a rousing applause when mentioning protection for retirement plans. But this hint of the Enron scandal only emphasized his connection to a company that greatly benefited his friends and family. Is it a strong union when government officials fraternize with millionaires who robbed working people, while the country faces the aftershocks of a terrorism attack?\nThe disgraces and shady deals go even further. Perhaps the biggest offense is Bush's modification of the 1978 Presidential Records Act. Normally, even confidential and private papers are released 12 years after the commander in chief leaves office. Under Bush's interpretation the former and current presidents must give their consent. Why the change? According to John Dean's article "The Sins of the Father," "Some 68,000 documents from the Reagan presidency were waiting at the White House," (www.guerillanews.com). Holding these pieces of paper might be an effort to protect daddy and the deals he made. Or even worse, additional vice presidential privileges could allow Cheney to reach beyond his normal powers. No matter what the reason, this order is questionable, and in no way helps America fight terrorists. \nEven though these infringements have been widely discussed, Bush has the highest public opinion rating of any modern president. Perhaps the best explanation for this is his staff members, who despite their offending conservatism are very intelligent. However, Bush has gone to extremes creating a new position, Homeland Security Advisor. Tom Ridge has no real authority, as he is only able to organize existing agencies. It is a blessing this former congressman has limited powers. As governor of Pennsylvania during the last Republican National Convention he "used questionable surveillance tactics, including preemptive strikes against protest headquarters," according to an October article by Angus Love (www.tompaine.com). Also, many anti-crime laws he installed were declared unconstitutional. Basically, through executive order, Ridge was appointed because Bush owed him for a smooth election party. Perhaps this highly supported President hopes Ridge will use the same illegal actions.\n A united Congress and country accepted all these offenses. Now as the attacks on Afghanistan conclude, Bush continues to pursue his overzealous agenda, such as military spending. With the largest increase in two decades, the country faces a deficit. The president hopes the tax cuts will become permanent, all during a recession and decreasing surplus. \n The figures for this budget just don't add together, and yet Bush asked Congress to restrain themselves and act in a "fiscally responsible manner." \n Mr. President, when you stop supplying money to missile defense, then cutbacks on needed social programs might be discussed. \nThroughout his entire address, Bush instilled gruesome warnings. His whole administration rides on these continuing threats, with little opposition at home. The kick-ass creed of "Let's roll" provides the image of a little boy playing with war toys, hoping to prove himself. It is time Congress and voters step in and let this appointed president know he isn't the only decision maker.