Unfettered Letters

Presidential politics

Obama passes presidential ‘test’

According to Republican Party statements. Barack Obama has not been “tested.” I am having difficulty understanding what test John McCain has passed that Sen. Obama has not passed.

Was it the financial crisis this past month, where Sen. Obama responded with a calm, executive response? Or was it Sen. McCain’s response, lurching all over the place and acting more like a yo-yo with different statements each day? Or was it back when they were in college, and Sen. McCain graduated near from the bottom of his class and Sen. Obama graduated at the top of his?

I’ve come to the conclusion that the test has to do with how each would respond as president. As neither has been president, we have to rely on how they have responded these past several months under the day-to-day pressures with very tight news coverage.

It appears that Sen. Obama passes the test. Sen. McCain talks a lot about the test but doesn’t demonstrate the leadership qualities, temperament and strategic understanding of the world to pass the test and be our president.

John Turner
Overland Park

Obama’s broken promises

CNN reported that Barack Obama has broken his promise by not accepting public financing. His 30-minute expensive buys on five TV networks were paid for by money he raised after he broke his promise.

I wonder what other promises he might break? He said he’d give tax breaks to everyone making under $250,000 but is now saying $200,000. Joe Biden is saying $150,000.

Americans need to pay attention. Are we ready to install a king instead of a president?

Susan Phillips
Kansas City

Obama tax plan bribes voters

We have come full circle on bribery. Few could doubt that campaign contributions by individuals or special interest groups are a form of legal bribery. Any candidate is guilty when they accept contributions knowing that their best judgment will be compromised when they vote on that project or issue being promoted by the contributor.

Agreeing to vote for a candidate because you will get paid when you do so is bribery — by the politicians.

Giving a refund to people who did not pay income taxes is bad policy. What is the incentive to work if you get paid when you don’t? Why should a person work harder when the compensation for the additional work is redistributed to someone only because that person has less?

By promising that they will get something in return for their vote, Obama is bribing a significant number of voters who are supporting him. The concept is not sustainable. It is bad tax policy. It amounts to welfare, and it causes voters to put their own self-interest ahead of having a sound policy to build a sustainable society that gives everyone the opportunity to succeed and the incentive to do so.

George J. Schlagel
Olathe

All should be proud of Obama

In 1960 a Lutheran deaconess told our youth group that if John F. Kennedy was elected president, “the pope will rule in Washington.” Kennedy won, but the pope missed the train to D.C.

It’s hard to believe that in 2008 the Republican Party is suggesting through its robo-calls and campaign stump speeches that if Sen. Barack Obama is elected president, domestic terrorists will have a friend in the White House, socialism will reign and taxes will skyrocket.

How can any American not take pride in his or her educational, social and political system when someone like Obama — a young boy of mixed racial origins raised mainly by his grandparents — could go to Harvard Law School, serve in the Illinois legislature and the U.S. Senate and run for president?

How can anyone ignore those accomplishments, the essence of the American dream, and let their fears of the unknown trump what’s in front of their eyes? Et tu, Brute?

Chuck Bishop
Kansas City

Abortion politics

GOP all talk on abortion

As this election approaches, we are inundated with advice on how we should vote. From the Catholic pulpit come cries that we should not vote for those who are “pro-choice.” The Bible is very clear (James 2:14-17) that it is not enough to talk the talk. We must walk the walk.

For the last eight years we have had a Republican president. For six of those years we had a Republican Congress. The party of life has not delivered on its pledge to ban abortion. How many times have George Bush and Dick Cheney participated in the March for Life rally in Washington? A recorded message does not count.

I submit that the reason for this inactivity is that if nothing is done, it can be recycled for the next election. There are other issues than abortion to consider as you vote. Let your conscience rule.

Also, John McCain has stated he is in favor of allowing abortion in cases or rape, incest and protecting the life of the mother. Therefore, we have two candidates who are pro-choice. You decide.

Francis “Bud” Hoak
Prairie Village

Could abortion ban be enforced?

Since Republicans are once again making abortion a key issue in the upcoming election, I would like to pose the following questions for those who are supporting John McCain and Sarah Palin based on this one issue.

If abortion were to be criminalized, would the police be required to investigate every miscarriage to be sure it was not intentional? Remember, abortion can now be chemically induced without the presence of a doctor.

If abortion were to be banned nationwide, would pregnant women be barred from leaving the country? Would the TSA have to screen women for pregnancy before they board an international flight?

If, as is more likely with the overturn of Roe v. Wade, states could pass their own abortion laws, could the state of Kansas, for example, prosecute a woman for obtaining a legal abortion in Las Vegas?

In short, could a ban on abortion — however nobly intentioned — be enforced without turning the U.S. into a police state?

S.A. Lewis
Prairie Village

Downside of socialized medicine

For 13 years I worked in foreign countries and was exposed to several health-care systems.

A young man was bedridden in England on a two-year waiting list for a back operation. He mortgaged his home, had his operation in Belgium and was soon back to work. Also, two elderly patients were denied medical eye treatment because they were both past the age cut-off limit.

During vacations in Florida, I talked to Canadians visiting for medical treatment because their universal medical care failed them.

In The Star, (9/2, Business), guest columnist Callom B. Jones V writes: “It’s no accident people of means come to the U.S. for medical attention from all over the world when their socialized medical systems fail them.”

Look over the candidates, and consider the type of health care you want to receive.

As P.J. O’Rourke said, “If you think health care is expensive now, wait until you see what it costs when it’s free.”

Be careful what you wish (or vote) for.

Leo Sebelski
Blue Springs

Take back wealth from CEOs

Spreading the wealth is bad, says John McCain. Concentrating the wealth so fewer and fewer have it seems to be OK. The American Dream used to mean everyone had an opportunity to build some wealth. Now the rules of the game (or lack of rules on Wall Street) have stacked the deck to favor the already wealthy.

Obama wants to spread the opportunity by making sure we all have a fair chance at building some wealth. Obama is not taking it away from people like Joe the Plumber. He is actually trying to help Joe the Plumber.

Punish the CEOs by taking some of their wealth away. Take back some of those billions of dollars that the hedge fund managers and others won in betting that the mortgage industry would tank. Take back the bonuses given to the high rollers who made all those bets.

Vicki Asbury
Weatherby Lake

No on JoCo Research Triangle

An ad for Question 2 touts the voter-friendly benefits of a step toward a comprehensive cancer center designation, more cancer treatment options in Johnson County and access to $50 million in donations and grants.

Maybe so, but not in the context of Question 2 should they be realized. First, the sales tax proposed is a forever tax. We’ll be paying this tax indefinitely, whether these benefits are realized or not. We don’t need another addition to a sales tax in Johnson County that is now approaching 8 percent.

Second, if these benefits are for real, there’s a state budget process to address the Research Triangle project. The combined net assets, as reported in the 2007 annual reports, of the University of Kansas, Kansas State University and Johnson County Community College KU, KSU and JCCC exceed $1.4 billion dollars. Plenty of resources are available for the institutions involved to fund the triangle without imposing an additional tax in Johnson County.

The research triangle is a state issue and should be addressed in the budget cycle, not by burdening people who shop or live in Johnson County with more local tax. Vote No on Question 2.

Ron Ward
Lenexa

Kenny Hulshof for governor

“Change” may have been a factor in some of The Star’s candidate endorsements, but it certainly wasn’t in backing Jay Nixon for governor.

The Star calls Nixon “the best candidate to get Missouri moving again” (10/26, Opinion, “Nixon has good ideas, experience”). Only one candidate in the race for the state’s highest office will move Missouri forward, and that’s Kenny Hulshof.

Hulshof has worked to ensure government is responsive and responsible. He will do the same as our governor. Hulshof has a proven record of working across party lines to get real results.

Hulshof has shown integrity and the will to do what’s right, even when it has meant going against party leaders.

We need a leader with the courage to tackle today’s challenges and the vision to lead us forward. Kenny Hulshof is the man for the job.

Cody Gariss
Lamar, Mo.

Chris Koster for attorney general

I have spent my career as a prosecutor here in Jackson County. As such, I have had the opportunity to work side by side with Chris Koster, former Cass County prosecutor and state senator.

I would like to put to rest any confusion as to whether the position of attorney general requires law enforcement experience. The attorney general is unequivocally the chief law enforcement officer for the state. On a local level, the attorney general handles every appeal on the felony convictions my offices obtain here in Jackson County.

Missouri is fortunate to have an experienced prosecutor running for attorney general this year. Voters should not be misled ads that distort Koster’s record as a tough prosecutor.

Chris Koster is the only candidate qualified for the job of attorney general.

Jim Kanatzar
Jackson County prosecuting attorney
Kansas City

Weber for Missouri state rep

As a longtime resident of Brookside and an even longer time Democrat, one would think that I would automatically support Beth Low for re-election to the Missouri House of Representatives. However, I instead support Lance Weber, Low’s opponent, running on the Libertarian ticket.

While I am not in agreement with all Libertarian positions, and I support Barack Obama for president as well as other Democrats for various state offices, I find Mr. Weber to be a refreshingly forthright and enthusiastic young attorney, parent and neighbor.

Let’s get some fresh ideas and a new point of view from a family man who is willing to bring government to bear on behalf of his fellow citizens.

M. Corinne Corley
Kansas City

Views on the presidential election

Why they can’t vote for Obama

I cannot vote for Barack Obama because of the extreme cynicism of his program. He “buys” votes from 95 percent of the electorate, promising to make up the deficit from the other 5 percent, figuring he can afford to sacrifice that percent of the vote.

It would be more honest if he said his programs are going to cost some money, so he will let the Bush tax cuts expire on all voters. (If these cuts were so miniscule for the majority of the people, what would they care?) If he did that, I might respect him enough to reconsider.

Stephen Kunz
Overland Park

I wish I could vote for Barack Obama, as he is very charismatic and looks and acts presidential, but I just cannot. Here’s why.

I am very concerned about his policies.

His election would give almost unlimited power to Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reid, Charles Schumer and Barney Frank, which is frightening.

Ray Trowbridge
Overland Park

Congressman Barney Frank couldn’t wait until the election was over before stating that the military should be cut 25 percent. At a time when Russia and China are building up their defense, Democrats want to cut ours. This should be a warning.

If Barack Obama is elected, with a Democratic majority in Congress, there would be nothing to hinder a Democratic, far-left agenda from being instituted to the fullest extent. Do most Americans want unrestricted far left policies enacted? I think not.

John McCain is not a liar. If he says he will reform things from the way the Bush White House was run, he means it. It’s not a pie-in-the-sky promise.

That can’t be said of Obama. He and McCain agreed together to take only public funds for the campaign. Then Obama raised $150 million privately.

Chad Kincham
Liberty

D student or A student?

There are clearly differences in the two presidential candidates, but after having endured the administration of George Bush for eight years, the decision seems elementary.

Why would people vote for another academic underachiever? John McCain is the son and grandson of top naval admirals. This obviously helped him get admitted into the U.S. Naval Academy. He graduated near the bottom of the class and struggled with mathematics. Is this the person we want to be making decisions about the economy?

In contrast, Barack Obama received his undergraduate degree from Columbia University and then graduated from Harvard Law School, where he was the editor of the Harvard Law Review. He is obviously an academic overachiever and understands the complex issues that are facing this country.

Do we want a D student or an A student leading this country? The choice is obvious. Vote for Barack Obama on Nov. 4.

Stuart Waldman
Overland Park

Forebears would be proud

On Nov. 4 I will be voting, in part, on behalf of family and friends who are no longer here but who I believe would be proud of Barack Obama’s candidacy

These people mostly worked and voted during tumultuous times in this country, in the 1950s and ’60s. I will carry their names with me to my voting place.

I encourage us to reflect and remember those persons who have been instrumental voters in our lives: parents, grandparents, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and neighbors. This election is one we all will remember. It is one in which our participation as voters is vital.

Sharon Cheers
Kansas City

Vote to keep power balanced

A Democratic president, a filibuster-proof Senate and Democratic-controlled House, all run by Nancy Pelosi and her cronies, will be the most catastrophic government in the history of the United States.

“W” may be the most objectionable occupant of the White House, but do not compare John McCain to him.

Moderate Democrats and Republicans, unite! Vote for the McCain-Palin ticket to bring some balance of power to our wonderful country.

Joe Bond Elliott
Overland Park

Obama socialist? Hardly

To those afraid of Barack Obama, “the socialist,” I’d like to offer a little perspective. I was born and raised in a country with higher taxes, stringent pro-labor laws, and universal health care. Not many would call this country — Germany — socialist. Yet if you plopped Sen. Obama into the German parliament, you would see him sitting at a lonely outpost on the far right.

Obama is no more a socialist than Bill Clinton, Bush senior or Ronald Reagan. All he proposes is to restore the tax code to what it was during the Clinton years. Were we socialist then? If so, then I, for one, am longing for those socialist days of old, when our economy was still sound. The fact is, even John McCain called the Bush tax cuts irresponsible at the time.

So please, educate yourself about the candidates and their proposals, and vote accordingly. But don’t vote based on some silly label one politician sticks on another.

Sine Thieme
Overland Park

Look who lacked experience

When someone questions the experience of Barack Obama, I am reminded of our 16th president. He, too, was from Illinois and spent a number of years in the Illinois General Assembly. He spent only two years in the U.S. Congress.

A great and inspirational speaker, he was tested, from within, during his time in office by opponents of the republic and blasphemers of the equality of all men. He persevered, and our nation was saved.

His name was Abraham Lincoln. You may have heard of him.

Jon Erickson
Liberty

These are our choices?

It seems like all we hear about in the polls are those who are committed and those who are “undecided.” How about those of us who don’t care for either of the two major candidates running for our highest office?

I believe one should vote on candidates and issues they truly believe in, but if you are not convinced it’s the right choice, don’t mark the ballot. There is no way I could take pride in voting for either Barack Obama or John McCain. To vote for the lesser of two evils is still a vote for an evil.

I am certain there are many out there who feel the same way I do.

Jerry Mathews
Kansas City

I was sitting down at The Brick the other night, sipping on a cold Pabst Blue Ribbon, and I got to thinking about how people voted for George W. because he seemed like the kind of guy you’d like to have a beer with.

Then I thought to myself. “Why would anybody in their right mind want any of these people to be president of the United States?”

Makes you wonder.

Mark Hastert
Kansas City

A pretty disquieting theory

Kathleen Parker tells us that John McCain chose Sarah Palin because he was infatuated with her (10/27, Opinion). Parker’s husband and a New York Times Magazine writer and a 2003 scientific study all so attest. The latter even revealed that “pretty women foil men’s ability to assess the future.”

So now we know. An attractive woman who achieved must have used her feminine wiles to get there. Thus, new-age, socially sensitive males must avoid the accusation by selecting the ugliest woman on the list.

Which females will be the next TV news anchors? Which women will advance into Barack Obama’s (or McCain’s) cabinet?

By extension, do pretty coeds get better grades from male professors? Are male jurors swayed by an attorney who happens to be a looker? Disquieting, isn’t it?

Reta Jo Mitchell
Kansas City

Non-Christians, vote wisely

As an atheist, I have a stake in a secular state, but I urge all non-Christians to consider this presidential election wisely. Do you Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, Hindus, pagans and all other myriad religious persuasions truly wish to re-elect a party that wishes to continue to inflict Christian-based laws upon society?

The Republican Party is notorious for pandering to the fundamentalist Christian wing. Our only protection from Christian-inspired legislation and policies is a secular state, free from religious encumbrance. We must also protect the secular nature of the Supreme Court.

So please, vote wisely and with great thought. Your religious freedom depends upon it.

Katherine Schlem
Olathe

Ads are positively negative

Political candidates run negative ads because they can’t find anything positive about their own records. God help us.

Randy Maddox
Kansas City

Civility, please as election nears

We have heard rumors of political behavior that goes beyond the usual mudslinging, name calling, and vandalizing of yard signs and approaches verbal and physical violence.

As we approach our national election, there is a great deal of excitement and increasingly intense feelings. We may not agree about the direction our country should take or who is best suited to lead us there. However, after the election, we will remain one nation.

Character assassination and hateful insinuation only breed more hate. Hatred, division, and polarization will not make our country healthier. They will make solving our national and global problems all that much harder.

We are better than this. We cannot and must not give in to hate.

Democracy is about debating issues, policies and the direction of our country. It is about voting for candidates who represent our hopes.

Those running for office are talented and capable people offering their lives for public service. We should be grateful to all of them. Hate has no place in a democracy. Our problems are too serious to allow incivility, hate and violence into our public discourse.

The Rev. Jim Eller
Metro Organization for Racial and Economic Equity (MORE2)
Kansas City

The Rev. Eric Williams
Concerned Clergy
Kansas City

Rabbi Jacques Cukierkorn
The New Reform Temple
Kansas City

Rabbi Arthur Nemitoff
The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah
Overland Park

Light rail a success in St. Louis

I am speaking to the reasons Kansas City needs light rail from my experience of living in St. Louis.

In heavy traffic time, you don’t have to worry about getting tied up by an accident and being late. Wducational and health-care institutions and businesses give discount light rail tickets to their employees because it decreases expensive construction of parking lots, saves space and prevents traffic delays for employees. Employees attract customers they otherwise would not have. For special events, trains run more often.

St. Louis’ starter route ridership exceeded expectations. Therefore, the expansion a few years later was strongly supported.

Many do use the light rail to go to the airport because it eliminates traffic delays and parking fees for employees and travelers. Businesses and institutions provide shuttles from the end lines to their location.

Sister Rose McLarney
Kansas City

John Rubin for Kansas House

The Star said that John Rubin, the impressive Republican candidate in the 18th Kansas House District, “does not appear” to support good schools, healthy citizens, or a clean environment (10/13, Opinion, “Key issues at stake in Kansas House races”).

What nonsense! Who runs for office on a platform of lousy schools, sick citizens, and a filthy environment? Certainly not Mr. Rubin, whose 30-year career protecting the public as a federal attorney, FDIC regional counsel with extensive economic experience and a Social Security administrative law judge makes him uniquely well-qualified to address and resolve these and other issues in the Kansas Legislature.

Rubin has set out a sound plan for reducing health-care costs in Kansas. He has wisely addressed comprehensive immigration reform. His energy plan will keep Kansans’ energy costs down while protecting the environment.

Rubin strongly supports adequate funding for Johnson County schools. He will make a great representative for the residents of Shawnee and all Kansans. I will vote for him on Nov. 4, and urge other voters in the 18th District to do the same.

Paul E. Newhouse
Shawnee

Happiness gap in politics

I am truly offended by Democratic consultant Chris Lehane’s assessment of the “typical Republican” (10/25, A-3, “The ‘happiness gap’ of politics; Time after time, polls find that Republicans are happier than Democrats”). He states Republicans are “happy coming home to a 62-inch television, pulling out a fine bottle of cognac ... but not caring what’s going on in the world outside their ... gated community.”

I am a Republican. When I sit down to watch television, it is on a 20-inch set we have had for more than a decade. Cognac has never once been on my grocery list. The only gates in my community are the ones that hold the cows in their pasture.

Later the article states Republicans are happier because “they have more money.” Do I have more money, or am I just smart about the money I have? When we purchased a house, we bought one for way below what we were approved for. We also have no credit card debt, because we try to spend less than what we make. Does any of this make me a bad person?

Please, all parties, stop vilifying people solely based on how they are registered to vote.

Erika Hile
Stilwell

The Washington Post story about polls finding that Republicans — in fact, conservatives worldwide — always have been and probably always will be happier than Democrats proves incontrovertibly that “ignorance is bliss.”

In fact, I am so convinced of the truth of this conclusion by Arthur Brooks, author of Gross National Happiness, that I, a truly miserably unhappy Democrat — due to the destruction of my country’s principles, economy, reputation and Constitution — wish I, too, could become a Republican.

But, alas, Democrats can no more become happier than Republicans can become any less blissful.

Jeff Perrin
Kansas City, Kan.

Election comments

Captivating candidates

About 16 months ago, I first heard of a man named Barack Hussein Obama who was a candidate for president. My reaction was “you’ve got to be kidding.” We just got rid of Saddam Hussein, and we’re looking for Osama bin Laden. This guy hasn’t got a chance. A couple of news blogs later I learn he is black. OK, he’s toast politically, right? Wrong!

Through perseverance, charisma and a message that many are longing for, Obama is now poised to be our next president.

But wait, the old war hero has a moose-hunting, lipstick-wearing governor from Alaska who has pulled the right base into action.

Is this a great country or what? Vote Tuesday or don’t complain.

Ken Hilton
Kansas City

Payouts weren’t Palin’s idea

Charles Huyett (10/27, Letters, “Palin’s payout to Alaskans”) is either deliberately or innocently misleading readers. The distribution of Alaska’s oil wealth is not a new thing, and Gov. Sarah Palin did not come up with it. This policy is mandated in an amendment of the Alaskan state Constitution. This amendment dates back to 1976.

If you are going to blame someone for something, make sure that person actually did it.

Steven Thomas
Kansas City

Why Obama has my vote

I am voting for Barack Obama because:

He has a solid plan for creating jobs by putting people to work on public works and renewable energy projects. John McCain is still pushing the trickle-down approach.

Obama’s inclusion of an option to buy into the health plan that covers government workers offers a reasonable alternative for people who are uninsured or unhappy with their current plan.

He will get us out of Iraq much sooner than McCain would.

Obama will abandon Bush’s pugnacious approach to foreign affairs, work more effectively with our allies and use diplomacy whenever possible with our enemies.

Obama has managed to reignite the torch of hope that was extinguished long ago with the assassinations of Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy. His election would make it possible for our government to once again be part of the solution to our problems instead of being the problem.

Winston Apple
Independence

Effigy marks a dangerous road

I just finished reading an article in The Los Angeles Times questioning whether the West Hollywood home that had a Halloween display with a mannequin dressed as vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin hanging by noose was hate crime or not.

The fact that we are even questioning whether this is right or wrong is ridiculous. Yes, it is a hate crime, and it is so much more. It is proof that some people in our society are heading down an extremely dangerous road.

Perhaps someone who found this image humorous could explain to me the difference between the reported death threats against Barack Obama and the image of Palin hanging in someone’s front yard?

And one last note, to the man who owns that house: Get some class.

Kelly Jo Blake
Lee’s Summit

Hand up or hand out?

Scabby hands vs. handouts

Years ago, when my company and my children were in their infancy, I was in line at the local grocery buying some beans and rice. The woman in front of me had steaks, chops and cheese — luxuries for us at that time. She promptly whipped out $80 in food stamps and then purchased two cartons of cigarettes with the $40 in cash from another pocket.

As I drove away in my rusty $200 truck, noting the scars and scabs on my hands, I made the decision that this was not fair.

Sixteen years later, as I write this, there are two scabs on my hands from working last week. The only difference is that I now drive a new truck and live a fairly comfortable life.

I wonder if after the election I will need to have bleeding fingers daily to maintain my standard of living for both myself and that woman.

Dan Yates
Bonner Springs

Helping weak strengthens all

Recent letter writers on the topic of socialism obviously have not listened to a single thing Barack Obama has preached about.

Obama’s main message has always been about personal responsibility. He thinks the best way for the poorest of Americans to improve their lives starts with the parents. He wants parents to take responsibility for raising their kids properly. He preaches for parents to take a role in their kids’ educations.

Denying these people health care and other basic privileges the rest of us enjoy to survive is inhumane. Yes, Obama wants to take a small bit from the super wealthy to help make sure the poor can get their feet on the ground and help turn bad communities into good ones. I don’t see a problem with that.

Obama preaches that we should rebuild this country from the bottom up. A chain is as strong as its weakest link. If America can improve its weakest link, the poor and disenfranchised, then the whole country gets stronger.

Jon Stone
Fairway

Socialism: Another definition

I’m always amazed and amused by the way the word “socialism” gets slung around in a political campaign. Jim Lullie (10/27, Letters) correctly notes that when Republicans shout it, they are in trouble.

I’m reminded of a tongue-in-cheek definition I heard years ago: “When the government does something for me, that’s social progress. When it does something for you, that’s socialism.”

Will Adams
Liberty

Giving shouldn’t be mandated

I’m perplexed by a phrase in the Obama campaign, “spread the wealth,” as if it were new. Seems to me we’ve been doing that since the beginning of time, when the first caveman divided his fish with another, and nobody had to tell him to do it.

In our town, sharing the wealth would include those who provide food, clothing and shelter to those in need, out of their own pockets, and the many churches and civic programs that do the same. Many prosperous, well-known families in Kansas City generously share their wealth. On the world stage, Bill Gates, Warren Buffett and Oprah Winfrey are among those who share their tremendous wealth.

We call this benevolent service to our human family charity, which is also love, and on a grander scale, philanthropy. The giants in the field are called philanthropists, and God bless them. If we start mandating such activity by the government, one way or the other, do we not kill the human spirit of giving?

In this country, we have always operated on the saying that “to whom much is given, much is expected.” May it always be so without government intrusion.

M.P. Miller
Overland Park

Government already intrudes

I keep reading how people are so afraid of our country becoming socialist. Many fear our government will not only be planning and controlling the economy, but also taking over our lives and freedoms.

Three years ago, there was the Terri Schiavo case where a husband, with approval from medical professionals, wanted to allow his wife to die. She had been in a vegetative state for 15 years. President Bush flew back to Washington from Crawford, Texas, to sign a document prohibiting the doctors from following through on the husband’s request.

This act is an example of government intrusion far more serious than any socialist government would be. It appears to me that socialism could be closer to Democracy than what we have now.

Pat Lanser
Olathe

Dislike gambling? Vote yes on A

If you dislike gambling, you should vote yes on Proposition A.

Why? Because it would force the casinos to pay an additional 1 percent in tax money that would go directly for our schools. Two, it would ensure that no more casinos could be built in Missouri. And finally, by eliminating the $500 loss limit, we would stay competitive with Kansas, which will have no loss limit.

Vote for our children on Election Day.

Don Merker
Raytown

Support higher ed in Kansas

Before Election Day, Kansas Citizens for Higher Education urges voters to learn where their state legislators stand on the critical issues of support for public higher education and the economic benefits that well-educated young men and women bring to our state. As our economy tightens and family savings for college dwindle with the stock market meltdown, we must have legislators in Topeka who will stand up for adequate funding of higher education.

Visit www.KansasHigherEducation.org where you will find five area State Senators and 14 House members who made our honor roll by voting 80 percent or more of the time for positive higher education legislation. These are legislators worth supporting with your vote.

Kansas has an outstanding system of public higher education. We must support and protect it for the sake of students, their families and the economic prosperity of our state.

Bill Hall
Chairman, Kansas Citizens for Higher Education
Mission Hills

‘Socialism’ and ‘racism’

I see where Star columnist Lewis Diuguid has caught national media attention with his assertion in an online “Midwest Voices” column that the term “socialism,” to describe the Democratic agenda, is really “racism” in disguise.

For years Diuguid has inundated us with an incessant mantra of ultra-leftist views, which some might even call “Marxist.” Of course, that term might simply be code language for “nonsense.”

Michael T. Murphy
Prairie Village

Thank you, sign stealer

My political yard sign was stolen over the weekend. I have no idea what the motives might be. But, political-sign-stealing-person, your efforts had consequences.

I not only bought more signs, which enriches my candidate’s coffers, it also turned me into a volunteer for my candidate. Good job!

Mary Ann Blasko
Independence

Caring about more than economy

The economy is horrible, and I care about that, but I care about more than the economy.

I care about our children and the education that they are (or aren’t) getting.

I care about the callous disregard for another human life — including, but not only, in the womb.

I care about how polarized our culture has become.

I care about the growing number of lies that are accepted as truth.

I care about how few people seem to be able to think through a problem logically.

I care a lot about laws that are selectively enforced.

I care about our freedom.

Betty Reed
Overland Park

Views on candidates

Questions for Obama naysayers

I enjoy reading the letters to The Star for the many diverse, and sometimes radical, opinions that your readers share. I have a couple of questions.

One, if The Star is so liberal, why does it keep printing all of those conservative opinions from letter writers and columnists? Two, do you really believe that Barack Obama, as president, would take your guns, gut the Constitution and rule in any extreme fashion?

Franklin Delano Roosevelt didn’t fulfill his naysayers’ predictions, and Obama, to your disappointment, won’t either. Obama isn’t a radical, terrorist, Muslim or extremist. He is a liberal. He’s not the bogeyman.

Harold Dee Graham
Louisburg, Kan.

McCain will keep U.S. safe

When I vote for a president, I ask myself, “Who is most qualified for the job?” Electing a president is like a hiring decision. The main duties of the president’s position are to preserve, protect and defend our Constitution. The Constitution and political rights can exist only if our nation is safe.

Without national security, there will be no economy or health care.

Whether I agree with a candidate on every issue makes no difference to me. I am voting for the person I can trust to keep me and my country safe. That’s why I’m voting for John McCain.

Thomas Hay
Lake Waukomis

No longer supports McCain

I am a Republican who once had great respect for John McCain and supported him for president when he was a bit younger. McCain’s intentions may be good, but his judgment has slipped, and I would not like to have the tired old man I now see in charge of my country in a crisis. The most recent examples of McCain’s failed judgment are his selection of Sarah Palin as his running mate and his attack ads based on misrepresentation.

Barack Obama is a mainstream American who has the right stuff to lead us out of the hole in which the Bush Administration has put us. There is no contest.

It is also in our interests as Kansans and Americans to return Dennis Moore to the House of Representatives and to retire Pat Roberts. Sen. Roberts was a serious disappointment as the do-nothing Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, and he became complicit in some of the worst practices of the Bush administration.

But no matter what, I hope that all of our neighbors will vote.

Lloyd F. Ryan Jr.
Merriam

Admit it Obama, surge worked

Iraq is an issue at the forefront of this presidential election, but I rarely hear about the progress that is being made.

The facts show that as a result of the surge there has been a drastic reduction in the number of civilian, ethno-sectarian and U.S. military deaths in the region.

There have also been great security and political gains among the Iraqi Security Forces and the government of Iraq.

Yet Barack Obama opposed the surge. He also said that based on what he knows today, he would still oppose the surge. While many of us disagree on whether we should have gone into Iraq initially, it is hard to argue the success of the surge.

Obama’s position blatantly ignores the facts on the ground and contradicts the intelligence from our U.S. commanders. His policy is more committed to getting out of Iraq than to achieving victory there. He is unable to recognize that the consequences of an immediate withdrawal would be disastrous to both the Iraqi people and the United States.

With our nation at war, Obama’s judgment on the issue of Iraq — or lack thereof — concerns me.

Roland Sneed
Blue Springs

Think Bush is a big spender?

Jeff Robertson (10/23, Letters) wrote that he decided to vote for Barack Obama after consulting a variety of media. I suggest he do some real research and serious study if he wants to make an informed decision.

Your taxes are likely going up. The tax cuts that President Bush signed into effect expire soon.

President Clinton signed the law that created the deregulation of the financial industry, after members of Congress received about $200 million in campaign contributions from the financial industry.

The Democrats fought against regulation to rein in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, not President Bush.

Whomever is elected president will “get us out of Iraq as soon as the situation there permits it.”

It’s easy to blame the president, but Congress passes our laws. And they couldn’t even pass the bailout package in a time of crisis without filling it full of pork and unnecessary spending.

If you think President Bush spends a lot of money, just wait. If Sen. Obama is elected president, President Bush’s spending will look conservative to you.

Greg Williams
Kansas City

Presidential politics

Don’t worry: Rich will stay rich

I would like to calm the fears that Barack Obama is a socialist. If Sen. Obama is elected president, even with higher taxes, the rich will remain very rich.

I would also like to defend myself as a single, low-income mother, going to school full-time in preparation to spend the next 35 to 40 years of my life teaching children. The notion that I am incompetent or unworthy because I’m in a group that requires assistance is highly insulting.

Using a progressive income tax for things such as helping people in poor circumstances is an investment in society as a whole, not a despicable act of theft.

If I can fill bags of food for the Raytown Emergency Assistance Program with an income below the federal poverty level, then those making more than $250,000 a year can afford to pay a bit more in taxes.

Katy Bielski
Raytown

All must be willing to give

Call it welfare if you like, but Barack Obama’s plan to help the working poor make it in this Ronald Reagan, “trickle on, I’ve got mine” failed economic environment is a sound plan. Helping those who help themselves is not welfare. People who complain the loudest at helping low-income families say nothing about the billions annually in corporate welfare.

I am amazed at the “Country First” people who want more tax cuts and more loopholes for the richest 5 percent, all while states are going broke, infrastructure is crumbling and our children are being saddled with a debt we or they may never be able to pay.

True patriotic Americans must be willing to give just a little more to save this country. I plan to start by putting America first and voting for Barack Obama.

Mike Jones
Kearney

Too bad it’s not Hillary

This election and primary time have been so undemocratic. The caucus states were not representative of the population. Barack Obama pledged not to take public financing and went back on his word.

How can you trust him? His word does not mean much.

I am disappointed in the people who supported Hillary Clinton. It would seem that someone would have started a “Write in Hillary” movement. She had 18 million votes, and there are also Republicans who do not agree with John McCain and would vote for her.

It is a shame we will either have an orator with no experience or an older man (however experienced) who could have health issues.

I think there are a lot of people, regardless of the polls, who are very torn about voting for either candidate.

Mae Judy
Kansas City

Vote for candidate who can win

I desperately hope that not many people think like Frank Hendricks (10/17, Letters, “Obama too conservative”), who supports Ralph Nader. If they do, we’re sunk.

I learned long ago from my wise aunt that I should make my vote count. At that time, there was a candidate whose platform I wholeheartedly agreed with. What I failed to realize was that a vote for the underdog was a wasted vote.

I understand Mr. Hendricks’ position. Now, understand mine. These are dangerous times, and Nader will not win, no matter how much you want him to. So please, pick the candidate who comes in second for you — McCain or Obama — because one of them will win, and your vote is critical in this election.

Please, use your vote wisely. Don’t throw it away on a candidate who can’t win.

Julie Dailey
Overland Park

Condemn ACORN’s actions

The Star’s editorial on ACORN and assertion that concerns over attempted voter registration fraud were overstated is troublesome. Fraudulent registrations are a big deal and should be treated as such. This is why the FBI is investigating ACORN.

The editorial claimed that a report I issued said elections this decade have been free of voter fraud. This is not accurate. My report revealed more than 1,000 improper ballots cast in St. Louis in 2000 and an organized and successful effort to generate improper votes. We responded with important reforms, making it easier to vote and harder to cheat.

Out of concern that our election be fair and honest, I offered Secretary of State Robin Carnahan assistance and urged election authorities to be vigilant while recognizing that under no circumstance should anyone intimidate voters.

The Star could show leadership by condemning ACORN’s actions instead of dismissing real concerns about ACORN and voter registration fraud.

Gov. Matt Blunt
Jefferson City

Becky Ansley for Kansas rep

I feel I am the best candidate for the House Representative position in Kansas District 27.

I bring fresh questions and ideas to the Kansas Legislature. A lot of time was spent last year on issues that did not go anywhere, such as the coal plant. And it really seems that Kansans would want us to work on a long-term, improved energy plan so we do not fall back into the rut of more than 30 years ago by assuming these falling prices will just go down and stay that way.

We also need to work harder to bring more business and jobs to Kansas. The proposed Johnson County Research Triangle is one way to do that.

So let’s look forward and get to work on mass transit, clean fuel and improvements in health care and education to update our state.

Becky Ansley
Overland Park

Bail out the regular folks

Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson said he hated to bail out the banks in the way that he did. Well, we didn’t like it either. Frankly, we would like to see a little creativity used to solve the bank’s problems.

Here is one idea based on two recent events: 1) the stimulus package of earlier this year, and 2) the loss occurring in the 401ks.

Mr. Paulson and Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke can give to each citizen over 18 years of age a $20,000 savings account in the bank nearest his or her home.

The old “trickle down” theory is just too easy, too inefficient and too unfair to be tolerated anymore. Other solutions could and should be brought to bear at this difficult time.

Bettie Sue Scott
Lenexa

Beatrice Mead
Overland Park

Farewell from Hereford House

As a bartender at the downtown Hereford House for almost eight years, I would like to thank all the wonderful people, guests and fellow employees alike, who’ve been so kind and generous to me over that time. I’ve met fascinating and diverse people from all over the world, who helped make my time as part of the Hereford House family the best job I’ve ever had.

The end was abrupt, with no opportunity to properly say goodbye. I hope the goodbyes will be temporary.

Deborah Boman
North Kansas City

Redistribution of wealth

I’m 71 years old, work full time, and will for another five years.

Barack Obama has called for more government programs, more government spending, tax refunds to the many people who pay no tax and redistribution of wealth.

What qualifications does he have to decide how I spend my money?

What qualifications does he have to decide how much of my hard-earned money I can keep and how much he can take and give to someone else?

This great country was founded by people from all over the world in the search of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Their hands weren’t out for a government to take care of them, or some president to tell them how much money that can earn and how to spend it.

Hardworking taxpayers, do you want the pursuit of happiness or the government to run your lives?

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