Letters to the editor for July 4

Bewarwe of political power-technics ahead

| The New Mexican

7/4/2008 - 7/4/08

Regarding the June 18 editorial, "A complicit Congress in no shape to impeach": It is tragically ironic that editorial writers at The New Mexican opined that impeachment would be a moot point by Jan. 20.
In retrospect, it was already too late, after the Supreme Court decision of Bush v. Gore in December of 2000.
The perpetrator in the White House has repeatedly demonstrated contempt for the Constitution, verifiable elections, public opinion and international as well domestic law.
Those still naïve enough to think that such arrogant power would give up such a winning streak have a very rude awakening coming. Sept. 11, 2001, was only one link in this chain.
Martial law, or its more socially acceptable equivalent, will be hailed via fervent flag waving as the final patriotic link.

Rattle your chains for democracy. It's the Fourth of July.

Scott D. Snyder
Santa Fe

Riders need paths, too

I think City Councilor Patty Bushee is
on the right track in regards to a bike-sharing program. I would like to suggest that if a plan like this does go forward, that special consideration be given to providing bike trails as well. It can be rather frightening riding a bike around town.

For the safety of Santa Feans and our visitors, the city should consider dedicated bike paths.

Jennifer Kirkgaard
Santa Fe

It's a new campaign

Rick Lass' filing for the Public Regulation Commission seat is most welcome. Rapidly increasing prices of PRC-regulated services, such as utilities, energy and insurance, affect us all. Citizens deserve a commissioner who will challenge corporations strongly. That's not the record of the father and grandfather of Jerome Block Jr. when they were on the PRC and its predecessor. In contrast, Lass has long worked, lobbied and campaigned on behalf of citizens of Northern New Mexico. Strong interest in Lass' candidacy was shown by his receiving almost 21/2 times the required number of signatures for filing and almost twice the number of $5 contributions to qualify for public financing — in just two weeks. The recent revelations of his opponent's character flaws emphasize the benefit of having a choice on the ballot. I urge going beyond straight party voting to elect Green Party candidate Rick Lass.

John Otter
Santa Fe

Luján reaches out

My campaign has always been about the people of New Mexico, and their support means so much to me. I've met with thousands of people, and I look forward to meeting many more. I will continue to visit communities throughout the district and discuss how our next representative can stand up for New Mexico.

We need to make sure our economy is working for the Middle Class. We must end the War in Iraq. We have to stand up for our veterans and get them the benefits they have earned and deserve. We need to fight for health care for all. We must expand renewable energy development in New Mexico to create new jobs and lower prices. I'm excited to continue our discussion about putting the people of New Mexico first.

Ben Ray Luján
Democratic nominee
3rd Congressional District