Editor:

[Regarding Adam Marletta’s Aug. 8 Letter to the Editor, “President’s failed policies don’t take a vacation]

At first thought I did not feel a response to this letter should be necessary. However, in due respect I must respond.

I am confident than many, probably the majority, of citizens of Maine still believes in respect for the office of the President of the United States. Yes, we can dissent and argue policy, but my previous policy was not political.

What disturbs many Mainers and me is how dissent can be distorted.

I.E.: False Pretenses? When all investigations of strategy, at the time, indicated that Iraq was a “real” threat to its neighbors and the free world.

I.E.: One million civilians? While independent organizations do not tally such a number, I agree that even one death can be too many, as previously happened under the former administration of Iraq – proven to be true in an Iraqi court process.

I.E.: Torture against enemy combatants? Again, independent organizations have monitored the detention of these combatants and with very few exceptions, are treated better than if they were detained in their own countries.

I.E.: The recent U.S. military tribunal of the terrorist chieftain? Who would say his trail and punishment were not fair?

I.E. Violation of American’s rights to privacy? The president has been found to be within the law of the land with the ultimate goal of keeping American safe.

I.E.: Gather family in peace? Yes, the president has the right, as do any of us, to “gather in peace with family” when it is personal and not political.

I have responded with respect for these dissentions, but disagree that this dissent is everyone’s viewpoint.

Robert Lothrop, Sr.

Kennebunk