Why Ryan is wrong for America

Paul Ryan’s persona as the textbook fiscal conservative is deceptive [“Ryan’s economic vision would reshape nation,” News, Aug. 15].

During the George W. Bush presidency, Ryan voted for every piece of legislation that had been endorsed by President Bush — including both of the Middle East wars and the moneys needed to fund them, bank bailouts (Troubled Asset Relief Program) and both tax cuts for the richest 2 percent of Americans. His vote also helped to defeat the Medicare drug plan that would have allowed the government to negotiate with the pharmaceutical companies for better drug prices.

In all, his votes during the Bush years helped increase the national debt to $1.4 trillion. It is funny that it wasn’t until after President Barack Obama was elected did he become the fiscal conservative he is today.

— Wade Boyd, Seattle

Getting to know Paul Ryan

I liked the article “Romney’s VP choice a Beltway charmer” [page one, Aug 12]. I like the way that it talks about him being a seven-time congressman, which makes him sound like he is a popular politician. I also like the fact that he had to mature quickly after his fathers’ death.

I appreciate The Times running this article so I can get to know Ryan better because he is the Republican nominee for the next vice president.

— Jesse Johnson, Puyallup