The F-22 is a nice toy. Its true. But do you need it really? Its the same with the Eurofighter, is it really usefull in our time? I think no. What we need are planes like the A-10 or Su-25. Rough, ugly, but high efficient killers. We need helicopters, we need better and more reliable systems for the man on the ground. Because only the man with the rifle in the hand can hold and secure a territory. I think a lot of people should read the old book of General von Clausewitz. Perhaps they would not invest our money in expensive and senseless toys, but in usefull weapons.
If you see the decision in that way you will understand that the cut of the Raptor is the right way.