George W. Bush stumbled through tonight's debate in the same way he has stumbled through his Presidency. His message of fear is misleading. His message on Iraq is based on lies. His lack of message on the erosion of our civil rights is terrifying.

Senator John Kerry stepped forward tonight with a clear message of hope for America and the World, in the same way he has stepped forward for public service all of his life. He is a man of peace who has already been tested in war. He is a Senator who has a clear record on the environment, civil rights and education.

It is now time for the American Public to step forward to put our Country back on course under a new, smarter, more compassionate administration that respects other Nations, and the intelligence and the civil rights of the American People.

Most of all, it is time to elect a President who tells us the truth.

Howard Vicini
San Francisco