REACTING TO TERROR

Peace In The Extreme

Gov. Gary Locke and state Attorney General Christine Gregoire are heading
to the right as they align themselves with U.S. Attorney General John
Ashcroft and Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld in what will soon be
viewed as an unnecessary and politically dangerous encroachment on our
civil liberties ("Locke, Gregoire propose tougher anti-terrorism laws,"
Times, Nov. 21).

The proposed state anti-terrorist legislation is merely an excuse to give
law-enforcement agencies additional powers that our public and legislators
would normally view as extreme measures. This politically opportunistic
grab for power will backfire as the smoke clears and people see that the
curtailing of civil liberties is not the answer to safeguarding our
communities.

Like its predecessor, the failed "War on Drugs," the new "War on Terrorism"
will expand over time to target those who are not in favor with whoever has
the power.

With Democrats like these, who needs Republicans?

- - Dan Merkle, Seattle