During debate No. 3, President Bush was asked why he was against allowing U.S. citizens to bring in prescription drugs from Canada where they sell for much less money. His answer was that he was trying to protect the health of U.S. citizens. What nonsense! He won’t even let Medicare negotiate for lower drug prices with the manufacturers. He is trying to protect the health of the U.S. drug companies who contribute large sums to his campaign coffers.

First off, most prescription drugs in Canada are imported from the U.S. or are manufactured in Canada by U.S. drug corporation subsidiaries.

Secondly, I have never read about any mass deaths in Canada from folks buying Canadian prescriptions. Anybody hear about Vioxx in the U.S.? Only the latest problem with U.S. drug companies. Where were you, Mr. President?

I am on Social Security and every dollar is important to me and thousands like me. I save almost $1,000 per year by purchasing my prescription drugs in Canada. One prescription, Metformin, costs about $125 for a three-month supply in the U.S. In Canada I can purchase a four-month supply for $35 U.S. I feel very sorry for people living south of Washington who must travel very far to get this benefit. And I feel ashamed of the insult the president has made against the Canadian government and people.

John Kerry supports legalizing the importation of drugs from Canada. Every senior citizen and those who are close should vote against Bush since it really affects their wallet and health. Choosing between drugs and food is not an acceptable choice. Clearly, if Haliburton had the flu vaccine contract, there would be plenty of vaccine available for U.S. citizens (who are lined up at the Canadian border today to get a shot in Canada!).

RONALD P. ZEUTSCHEL

Woodinville