4 Indicted in Iran-Contra Scandal

Now that indictments have finally been returned against the four key players of the Iran-Contra scandal, we can watch them squirm and hope for justice. But don’t for a minute expect to see any of them wind up behind bars.

It has been firmly established that each of these men clearly broke the law. Some pursued policy objectives in violation of U.S. law, while others lined their pockets with illegal profits obtained through these activities. Congress and the American people were lied to. The President went on the air and lied to our faces. Ours is a nation of laws, not men.

That grandstanding North can tug at the hearts of weak-minded Americans all he wants with his, “Aw shucks, I was just trying to do the right thing,” speech about good intentions. He doesn’t fool me. He is a holier-than-thou, “I know what’s right for America” tyrant wrapping himself in the flag of patriotism. He and the others all deserve to be punished.

As for my point that none of these men will actually serve time, just wait until after the November election. When the next President has been chosen by the voters, expect to see Reagan pardon the entire field of Iran-Contra figures. He will wait until after the election so as to not jeopardize Republican chances. If Reagan grants pardons anytime before the election, the Republicans can expect a public backlash. Reagan will wait no matter how choppy the waters for North and the others become. But pardon them he will. You can bet the house on it.

JEFF SOFTLEY

Los Angeles