Your letter in the Dec. 3 issue by Gordy Vernon was right on. Having been to numerous countries around the world, we have seen how political systems, health care and religion work. Surprisingly, the United States is the laughingstock of the world.

Many people here don’t even realize half their income taxes pay for more than 800 military installations on foreign soils in addition to the bases here. Also, better health care can be obtained for some things at one-third to one-half of what it costs us — both prescriptions and the equivalent of insurance premiums.

As for the imposing of our religions on foreign lands, it isn’t even recognized as a real problem. After 5,000 years of religious wars, isn’t it kind of obvious what needs to be done? Australia, the British Isles and even Canada understand the real problem. After more than 240 years here, you would think citizens would understand, but a lot is being hidden by our political system, especially by the Tea Party and the top 10 percent.

Just for the record, we have driven to your fine city three times in the past 10 years. The Alaska Highway and muskeg of your state leave a lot to be desired. We used to complain about the conditions of our highways, but not any more. At least here it doesn’t cost $1,000 or more every year for repairs to our motorhome.

Linda and Ken Smith

Hartford, Wis.