Bolton is the wrong man at the wrong time

Re “Bush Steps Around Senate, Names Bolton U.N. Envoy,” Aug. 2

Except for America, the world was largely in tatters following World War II. It was at this time that the U.S. promoted, and paid for, an institution that was to become the United Nations, created for the noble purpose of keeping the world at peace. But almost from its beginning it was the object of scorn by neoconservatives. And now George W. Bush has selected a neoconservative, U.N.-hating man named John Bolton as U.S. ambassador to the U.N., just at a moment when America needs the world’s help in a battle against the scourge of worldwide terrorism. The very terrorism made manifest by Bush’s infamous decision to invade Iraq.

Dale A. Page

Granada Hills

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It is unfortunate that the White House failed to give the Senate the documents it requested on Bolton. In our system of checks and balances, the Senate has a constitutional responsibility to examine the candidates appointed by the president.

To expect the Senate to give appointees an up-or-down vote when there is scant information makes the appointment process a sham, and it weakens our democracy.

Richard Dickinson

Glendale

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So our prez has pushed past all fact and opinion about Bolton and appointed him while Congress was off duty. All those surprised, please raise your hand. I didn’t think so.

Mary Ross

Cambria