Kerry Asks Bush to Debate on Vietnam

http://www.latimes.com/news/politics...t2004-complete

THE RACE TO THE WHITE HOUSE
Kerry Asks Bush to Debate on Vietnam

By Matea Gold, Times Staff Writer

ATLANTA — Massachusetts Sen. John F. Kerry, reacting sharply to Republican
attacks about his record on defense issues and Vietnam-era antiwar
activities, sent a letter to President Bush late Saturday challenging him to
a debate about their military experiences during the Vietnam War.

In his letter, Kerry wrote, "Over the last week, you and your campaign have
initiated a widespread attack on my service in Vietnam, my decision to speak
out to end that war and my commitment to the defense of this nation."

"If you want to debate the Vietnam era, and the impact of our experiences on
our approaches to presidential leadership, I am prepared to do so," the
letter added.

The challenge from Kerry is the latest indication that if he emerges as the
Democratic nominee, the Vietnam War will figure prominently in the campaign
between him and Bush.
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