To Senator Robert Byrd [arguing against the Congressional resolution giving the power to declare war to the president]

Regarding your speech of 3 October 2002: Thank you.

A million times, thank you. I, regretfully, have had to relocate outside of West Virginia for reasons varied and sundry, but I have always thought of myself as a West Virginian.

You, sir, have made that title something to be proud of. I think of your example, and the label of "West Virginian" is something to boast of again.

In these dark days, with violence being the order of the day, with sons trying to finish father's wars, you have spoken clearly and plainly.

I have, over the last two years, become increasingly discouraged and cynical towards politicians, as my current representatives (with the exception of Mr. Tony Hall, who is, unfortunately, now serving as ambassador to the UN) have worked to sell out to the highest bidder. I have become more angry as I see the executive branch serve thier own needs instead of the needs of the people they are supposed to serve. I have become disillusioned of the Democrats, as they have cowed under the weight of corporate indebtedness and simple spinelessness.

I have thought of when my high school teachers had us read "Profiles in Courage", and laughed a painful sarcastic laugh.

Now, though... now...

It must have taken a large amount of courage to stand there that day and say the things you said. To speak plainly and openly against the prevaling winds. God bless you for doing so, sir, as you have given me hope that maybe there's some decency left in our government after all.