As the Senate tried to fast-track the McCain-Kennedy Comprehensive Immigration Bill, the telephone calls from angry constituents in Arizona and nationwide poured in, but not all calls are created equal. At Senator John Kyl 's office, calls to the Spanish speaking line--pro-amnesty advocates--were given priority over English-speaking opponents who were effectively censured. I couldn't talk to an aide in English, but had no problem speaking Spanish on the pro side of the issue, at a different telephone number.

For many years, like all citizens, I have sought honest political leaders who actually represent  their districts, constituents and address the concerns of the majority. It's rare to find anyone worthy of support in either party who keeps their promises to voters after an election and, "come hell or high water," are there for the best interests of the nation and the people who pay the bills.

Wars are created by politicians, not the military that serve as protectors, guardians of this country. A military oath to defend this nation against all enemies, foreign and domestic, is honored long after service has ended. Most Americans have forgotten why a military force is necessary.

I received an email  from  LTC Allen West, currently serving in Afghanistan, who is running for Congress in Florida's 22nd Congressional District, GOP. As a veteran, and former federal agent, my priorities in the election of any official for public office are leadership, devotion to duty, experience, principled conduct and loyalty to the nation and to us, the taxpayers .

On border issues stateside, Col. West stated that "having been on the border here between Afghanistan and Pakistan at the crossing point of Spin Boldac, I can understand the issue. ''The first thing that has to be addressed in this is border security; we must stem the  flow. Then simply enforce our laws. We must find the over 600K illegals who have skipped hearings and those who are wanted felons. I  also want any illegal who completes their prison sentence to be immediately extradited back to their country of origin.

'' There truly can be no bill on this until we get a handle on the internal issue. And no, I do not support any amnesty plan, not until we secure and enforce. That also means reevaluation of visa waiver travel programs and the student visa program."

I respected Allen West as a military commander long before he sought political office. Words that  portray the man are short and to the point. Col. West once stated, "There are rules and regulations and there's protecting your soldiers. I just felt I'd never have to write a letter of condolence home to a rule and regulation."  If politicians nationwide had the same respect for their voters as Col. West has for his troops, there would be no public outcry because there would be trust. Col. West's soldiers trusted him to protect them. In Congress, the country can trust him to do the same.

John W. Slagle (ret) Special Agent, Anti-Smuggling Unit USBP Tucson, Arizona