For many of the World War II generation the last eight years have been a blow to our national pride and have left us heartsick. After the election of Barack Obama we feel real hope for our country.

At the same time, the nation should not just look the other way as the present administration bows out, expecting to leave office with its dignity intact.

Cutting taxes for the rich while starting an unnecessary war in Iraq turned a budget surplus into a run of financial deficits and largely provoked the credit crisis. Lately, the Bush administration’s stimulus package to financial institutions has neglected the plight of small businesses. Many of them and thousands of ordinary jobs are being lost as the administration delays until Obama assumes command.

If the Bush administration is allowed to escape without justice being served, we would establish the dangerous precedent that malfeasance in the highest public service of our country is condoned. How can we fail to act when the president has repeatedly violated his oath to protect and defend the Constitution?

Since crimes against humanity have also been authorized, even the International Court at the Hague should be roused to action.

Shirley Skinner

Spokane