Republicans are supporters of terrorism?

In response to Mr. Patterson's letter "Democrats are appeasers of terrorists" (DJ-10/11), I must say his views are at the least shortsighted and at most downright scary. He uses "examples" such as "liberal professors promote tyranny over historic American liberty ..." What professors? Where? He uses Rosie O'Donnell, Barbra Streisand and Cindy Sheehan as political figures as if they have anything to do with terrorism or the war in Iraq. They didn't choose to go to war or not to go to war. They are private citizens with their own points of view. It's called FREEDOM of speech, one of the freedoms we as Americans fought for against a tyrannical government. Republicans supported terrorists in the past (remember Afghanistan in the '80s? Maybe the Contras ring a bell?) Except then they were called "freedom fighters" because we supported them. We aided, funded and instructed what was to become the Taliban. Then they were called the Mujahideen. One of their fighters/leaders was no other than Osama bin Laden. We sold them weapons that would eventually be used against our own troops a decade later. Republicans supported terrorists in the past, and still do. Remember when Republicans supported Saddam Hussein? The U.S. check on Iranian power was a strong, militarized Iraq. That's why we funded Saddam Hussein for so many years. Repeat that to yourself: Republicans supported Saddam. Republicans to this day swear Saddam had ties to and literally supported terrorists. So, ipso facto: Republicans support terrorists. Republicans favor dumping billions of dollars into fighting a "war" that has produced not less, but more terrorists. Do yourself a favor and research the National Intelligence Estimate entitled "Trends in Global Terrorism: Implications for the United States." The (mostly) Republican actions since 9/11 have basically produced more terrorists, more risks for Americans as well as less money and other resources to secure our own country effectively. It means that every day the Iraq war continues U.S. citizens become less safe, not more. It means the Republicans' continued refusal to admit mistakes or change course aids our enemies. Again, this must mean Republicans support terrorists. We don't even need to go into the slow destruction of the Constitution by the Republican Party. But as a side note, this also must mean the Republicans are against freedom. So, Mr. Patterson, I ask you and other blinder-wearing Republicans: Who are you going to vote for in November? Those who support terrorists or those who want to keep you safe from the terrorists? Your vote is critical. Rob Evans, Vineland - Published in the Daily Journal, October 17, 2006