Signature Ad, Fall 2003

Open Letter To The Congress Of The United States

Over the last three years, the Bush Administration has promised us compassionate conservatism. They've promised us greater national security. They've promised to "leave no child behind." Where have these promises led us?

Is it compassionate to cut programs for youth, the poor, and the environment, and to propose a cut in humanitarian aid to Afghanistan and aid to the Veterans Administration?

Is it conservative to spend 1 billion dollars per day for the military while government accountants admit that they can't find over one trillion dollars in Pentagon funds?

Does it increase national security to pursue wars and threaten further wars? To walk away from international organizations and treaties that strengthen our alliances and build bridges to our rivals? To spend money on new nuclear weapons that will escalate the arms race?

September 11th clearly proved that a superior military does not assure security. Real security comes from worldwide economic stability, a sustainable environment, and emphasis on education and meeting human needs. Real security comes from abiding by international treaties that are transparent and verifiable and based on the rule of law.

We, the people of Maine, challenge you, our congressional leader

• to have the courage to be truly compassionate
• to regain and conserve the good will of other nations
• to consider the children in every decision
• to make choices that provide us with REAL SECURITY

We are expecting a budget and a foreign policy that reflect an ethic of caring towards our environment and all people of the earth.

The world is watching.

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