Your editorial in support of the recently passed energy bill is confusing to say the least. Most of the essay is devoted to stating the problems with the energy bill (and there are plenty) and identifying the political favors being repaid (there are plenty). Then you state emphatically "this bill would do more good than harm." Since you asked the question "what kind of a bill would you expect to emerge from a political process in a nation as large and diverse as this one?" I'd like to answer.
I'd expect a bill that included the input and involvement of both parties in Congress instead of just the majority.
I'd expect a bill that didn't blatantly pander to political friends of the president and his party.
I'd expect a bill that encouraged further efficiency in energy consumption while also producing less pollution.
I'd expect a bill that was serious about the development of alternative energies and the reduction in our excessive use of energy.
It is hard to quantify whether this bill will do more good than harm, because the only good it will do is put taxpayers' dollars in the pockets of political donors and corporate executives.
K. Lamonte John
Burke, Va.