As a devout Democrat here at Iowa State, I have been very critical of our “appointed” President George Bush. His stance on the environment is weak and undefined and his cabinet appointments are, to say the least, questionable.

However, his leadership in trying to put together the pieces of a broken nation can not be disputed. With the war on terrorism seemingly in hand overseas, President Bush now wants to prevent another Sept. 11-type attack on American soil. His new homeland security directive, which will monitor international students and possibly limit the majors in which they can pursue, is a bold, aggressive and commendable part of his overall plan for our safety.

Bush’s plan may seem prejudiced against students wanting to attend schools like Iowa State, but I doubt any upstanding student from abroad would see it this way. It is no wonder that many Democrats in Congress are supporting Bush’s plan for our safety, including the monitoring of international students. To go against this plan, no matter what party you are in, would be political suicide. As the election of 2004 sits down the road, not only is “Dubya” gaining my respect and confidence in his ability to lead our nation, he may be gaining my vote.

Ryan Osweiler

Freshman

Psychology