This is a response to the column by Joe Ramagli, "Far-left protesters must stop criticizing and offer solutions" (Feb. 2). To begin with, I must remind Mr. Ramagli that the continuous protests and demonstrations played a big role to end the Vietnam War and years of racism and segregation in the 1960s.

Hence I find it quite irresponsible to hear someone insult the anti-war protesters in such a harsh manner.

According to the polls, more than 60 percent of Americans are against the war in Iraq and the troop surge, and I don't believe this large majority represents the "far-left extremists."

It instead represents responsible citizens who are concerned with the future of their country.

Mr. Ramagli also suggests that the president's new plan should be given a chance; however, anyone who has studied the history of Iraq and the current situation vigilantly comprehends that the Iraq problem requires a political solution instead of a military one, and this is precisely what the Iraq Study Group has suggested.

But, unfortunately the president has completely ignored the recommendations of this bipartisan panel and insists on a troop surge.

As a final point, I agree with Mr. Ramagli that the situation in Iraq requires a "serious" person.

But I don't believe a person who misled the American people into an unnecessary war and a person who said: "Brownie, you're doing a heck of a job," when people were drowning in New Orleans is "serious" enough to get us out of this mess.