The disputed letter defended by CBS News regarding President Bush's National Guard service has revealed a widespread bias - in his favor. When the letter came to light, it was almost immediately questioned for its font and the use of a raised "th" character, both of which were present on the widely distributed IBM Selectric II typewriter at the time of the letter's date. Early critics of the letter, before attacking content, attacked its format, which was historically sound. What then brought them to these criticisms, other than an obvious bias and unquestioning credulity that served the president as a first line of defense?
Jacob Selvia, Mount Airy
It seems that while CBS is sort of admitting the forged memos are of questionable authenticity, Dan Rather persists in wanting President Bush to address the charges they imply.
Bush should respond, "If you want to know about the content of those forged memos, ask the forger. Why ask me? I've never seen these documents before they were sent to us by the Democratic National Committee, and I have no idea what the forger was using as a basis."
Rather built a national TV program around forgeries, and yet he does not appear concerned who could have so misled him - unless the answer to that question is the same as Pogo's: "We have met the enemy, and they are us."
Larry M. Southwick, North Avondale
Regarding the letter "Forgery doesn't invalidate facts" (Sept. 22): I am able to see the Carew Tower and touch it. I know it exists. I don't know the facts of President Bush's service in the National Guard. The letter writer would have us believe that CBS may easily have found many sources to verify their allegations. If so, they would not have used a forgery.
Gene Bertke, Green Township
There has been a constant drone from the right for the last two weeks about the veracity of the documents CBS presented as evidence of President Bush's favorable treatment in the National Guard. Where was that indignation a couple of months back when they were dragging the swift boat captains to a microphone, or in front of a camera, every chance they got? Where was the moral outrage several months ago when some of the louder mouths among them were repeating that John Kerry was having an affair? Knowing what I know now, I'd still take Dan Rather and documents scribbled in crayon by a 5-year-old before I'd trust anything coming out of this administration or the media who support it.
Russell Wright, Price Hill
Have a topic you think readers should sound off on in this space? Send it to Ray Cooklis at rcooklis@enquirer.com; (513) 768-8525.
No 'strike day' for Ky. teachers
Keep stock options tax-exempt
Black eye at CBS
Our nation needs an ethical plumb line
Letters to the editor
Insurance not worst part of ordeal
