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Letter: The real reason for most of America’s wars is avoiding regime change at home

(Allison Robbert | AP) National Guard members watch as people protest near the White House against U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026 in Washington.

Americans are perpetual slaves of our own ignorance. Today we debate whether Trump’s reason for the Iran war is regime change, oil, or to preempt an attack on America.

However, anyone who has studied the history of the American presidency knows that avoiding regime change at home rather than abroad is the real reason for most of America’s international wars.

George W. Bush rolled out the Iraq War so he could be assured of winning another term of office. Lyndon Johnson amped up the Vietnam War for the same reason. Trump wants to divert attention away from his sinking poll numbers and from the increasingly dire Epstein files revelations. Our presidents don’t care that lots of people die in their wars. They only care about money and power.

Pretty sad, isn’t it?

Kimball Shinkoskey, Woods Cross

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