Regarding drilling in Alaska: I understand that the Alaskan economy would benefit from more jobs and resources brought in by this drilling project, but it's a hard sell to say that this is a cost effective or efficient solution to the energy crisis occurring in this country. There are other alternatives available and it's starting to look like the Republican leadership is more intent on protecting special interests, home state projects and partisan politics than in solving real problems and representing the will of the majority of ordinary Americans. That may not actually be true, but it certainly appears that way from what I've been observing. I see so many people paying much closer attention to how the government is run and we are taking the time to become more informed about issues and policy making. To Americans like me, it seems distasteful to slip legislation like this into important bills when the Senate schedule is under so much pressure to resolve so many critical conflicts. I know there are many ways to skin a cat and in politics it seems you have to be willing to stretch things to the extreme, but this does not shed a flattering light on you or your state. Ordinary Americans would like to see this kind of legislative maneuvering, which seems overtly underhanded, end. We want bipartisan support for real solutions to real problems. For myself, I will vote accordingly. I'm an independent, registered voter who has both conservative and liberal ideals that blend together without conflict in the pursuit pragmatic solutions to the challenges in my life. And I am becoming increasingly frustrated with what seems like a Republican stance that is out of step with the lives, needs and ideals of ordinary Americans. I will vote across the board against Republican office holders and lobby others to do the same if this is the way it's going to continue to play out politically in my country. I hope you will accept this criticism as a sincere wish to see my political leaders live up to the reputation that this country has had in the world as a great Democracy and to try to reclaim the respect of the American citizens for their government which is being so horribly eroded. I encourage you to work for the greater good for all Americans during this challenging time in our country's history. Please have a great holiday season with your family and friends and thank you for the sacrifices you make in those areas in order to fulfill the duties of public office. Sincerely, Don Conoscenti / Chicago IL  12-2-05