Bob, it's been a work in progress over the years. As many other college students, I was an idealistic "Democrat" in my younger days. I even worked on the first Clinton campaign. (Don't throw anything at me, I was YOUNG!) But, as time progressed and I got older, life taught me that what I was taught to believe about the political parties is not necessarily reality. George Bush was the first Republican I ever voted for (first as Governor, then as President.) I majored in Government in college and was taught many things by some pretty staunch liberals. Life has taught me stuff much closer to the truth.

Of course, I've disliked Kerry for many years, ever since he used the Vietnam MIA issue for his own political gain. I was too young to remember his escapades before Congress. Looking back now, it disgusts me. People ask me why I don't like Kerry, and I find it difficult to put into words. All I can say is that, as the daughter of a Vietnam vet, I am offended.

Don't get me wrong, there are things about George Bush that I would change if I could. But the man has dealt with more crap in his first 4 years than the entire Demo Party has in decades, and he has at the very least managed to do it with his pants on. Overall, I'm pretty impressed. I shudder to think where we would be today had Al Gore won the election. I can't even imagine his reaction to 9/11.

OK, off my soapbox now.

Stephanie