Editor:

I was pleased to read the optimistic letter my Oakley friend, James Arellano, wrote recently. I too think that this economic turmoil will pass and the future will bring changes which will benefit our wonderful United States of America.

We can already see many investors taking advantage of the lower interest rate and lower house prices. I would urge those with good credit and a steady job to buy a home as a good investment.

I have a different opinion from my good friend, James Arellano, regarding John McCain. I am afraid his chance of being our next president has taken a downturn. The political situation left by our current president is horrible. Everything that Mr. Bush has touched has dissolved into a great calamity. This situation affects John McCain's chances of being our next president.

Mr. John McCain represents big and small businesses, the military and a majority of the seniors. Barack Obama represents labor, the unemployed, the poor and a majority of the young voters. The outcome will depend on the voter turnout. If a majority of the population decides to forego this election and stay home, McCain may win, since Republicans vote at a very high percentage. If Democrats, independents and young voters turn out in vast numbers, Barack Obama may win.

There is a hidden and unknown element lurking in the shadows that may influence this election. It is the racial element. This element may be a benefit or a detriment to Barack Obama. After checking most of the publications, I predict that Barack Obams will win this election.

Joseph T. Zamora

Antioch