Internet smears are repeated in letters to the editor in the Monday paper.

Gabby White, Michelle Obama did not say she “hated the United States.” In one of her campaign appearances for her husband long after he was deeply into his presidential run, Mrs. Obama said for the first time in her adult life, she was “really proud” of her country. After controversy about this remark, Laura Bush came to Michelle’s defense, saying she was sure Michelle had meant to relate to her husband’s campaign and pointing out the perils of the smallest misstatement by a spouse.

And, Gabby, you have repeated two of the most prevalent smears about Barack Obama that have been circulating on the Internet for several years. Obama does say the pledge of allegiance to the flag and he DOES salute the American flag.

Sen. Obama and Sen. John McCain are both very patriotic men and both love their country deeply. The differences between them are related to their differing views on how to solve the problems facing our country, not their patriotism.

Linda Kofstad

Hartland