I have studied history since high school, and have an undergraduate degree in that subject. I wanted to know what has worked for America, and what has not worked for America. I know how we got to be an economic giant and a leader of the "Free World." We are now the Leader of the "Free World" in name only, because we have lost our industrial base that provided the economic support for that leadership position. We have lost control of our economy, and with it, our sovereignty. There is no independence without economic independence. Both the Republican and Democratic parties have sacrificed this country on the altar of "free trade"--and I want my country back! Nader's chances are slim, but he is on the right track and I will vote for him. I have voted the a straight Democratic ticket since the Johnson Administration. I have settled for less too many times and have weakened the country with every compromise. You have to take a stand even if you probably will lose. Maybe someday the Democratic party will regain its spirit, but, for now, I will go with Nader.

Pervis J. Casey

Riverside, CA