On point

Commonweal, Nov 5, 2004 by Miriam Curnin

Your editorial on George W. Bush's fiscal agenda ("The Rich Get Gicher," October 8) and Margaret O'Brien Steinfels's October 22 essay on the election are models of clarity and reason. They are the most persuasive pieces I have read during this endless election season.

I can't understand why Republicans tolerate Bush's fiscal policies; they contradict every GOP mantra about fiscal responsibility. How can one explain the Republicans' silence? Steinfels beautifully delineated the characteristics, achievements, and failures of each of the main candidates. How does Bush get away with his glaring deficiencies? I feel more optimistic and confident about John Kerry than Steinfels does and will vote for him with more hope than she, perhaps, but she made the case for him succinctly and lucidly. Thank you for both essays.

MIRIAM CURNIN

Larchmont, N.Y.