Recent press coverage over remarks made by Barack Obama’s pastor are indicative of one of the many problems with the political process in America: Elections as tabloid news.

The pastor’s remarks are indeed offensive and in many respects maniacal, however the right-wing rants of evangelical leaders are no better. Let’s look at some of the religious leaders who have endorsed John McCain.

John Hagee is an anti-Catholic bigot and Pat Robertson has made statements that border on the absurd, such as his agreement with the late Jerry Falwell that America got what it deserved with the 9/11 attacks because of our society’s sin. Both Robertson and Hagee should lose their tax exempt status and register as lobby groups for a foreign power, Israel.

This is a crucial election as our nation faces serious problems such as the war in Iraq and an economy that worsens by the day. As Americans decide who to vote for, let’s forget the tabloid spin and focus on the real issues that face our nation.

Shawn Smith

Natchez resident