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Dear Mr. President, 

I am sad to see you waffling on your promise to veto the Republican estate tax bill, which will endow most of its benefit on the very, very rich. I am sad, but not surprised. 

My surprise comes from the Vice President's silence. Mr. Gore, this issue could distinguish you from Gov. Bush as a fighter for the economic interests of middle-class and less-fortunate Americans. The estate tax is the principle means to prevent the establishment of a permanent ruling class, comprised of people with a disproportionate amount of wealth compared to everyone else. 

Why are you as quiet as a little mouse, Mr. Gore? Are you looking for some other issue to attract tepid Republicans and radical Green Party voters? 

Good luck in finding one. 

Bruce Joffe 

Oakland