The Democrats’ prospects

Re “Obama the anti-Bush,” Opinion, Dec. 21

Not since former California Gov. Jerry Brown has there been such an overnight sensation as Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.). After promising the people of Illinois that he would serve a full six-year term in the Senate, Obama has apparently decided to renege on his pledge. But perhaps now is also the time for Obama to run before his record belies his rhetoric. Does anyone really know what Obama’s positions are on critical worldwide and national issues? Considering the complexity of the world in which we live, it is imperative that the American people overcome their obsession with style over substance and demand that the next occupant of the White House be thoroughly vetted. To date, all that is really known about Obama is that he is the same old wine in a brand new bottle.

JIM REDHEAD

San Diego

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Michael Tomasky mentions three possible opposites to President Bush. Yes, Obama is smart and charismatic, traits that Bush does not have. Yes, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-N.Y.) is intelligent and does not fumble with the English language, traits that Bush does not have. Yes, Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) was a soldier and a courageous man during the Vietnam War, a place that Bush avoided. But why not include a former vice president who graciously conceded an undeserved defeat seven years ago? He is also smart, does not fumble with his English, but is also a passionate man about keeping this beautiful Earth from destroying itself -- traits that Bush does not possess.

LOLI HENDERSON

Laguna Niguel