Lessons From Jeffords’ Defection

Vermont Sen. James Jeffords’ restructuring of the U.S. Senate by declaring himself an independent was a courageous act (May 25). Since becoming president, George W. Bush has acted as though a majority of the American people voted for his radical right-wing agenda. He refuses to believe that a majority of Americans voted against him. Instead, he believes that he controls the Supreme Court and both houses of Congress and can dictate American policy, the economy and lifestyle. The Republican Party deserves better.

Thinking he could instill compassion into his Clinton-hating, liberal-hating radical Republicans, Jeffords tried and his efforts were repudiated. To maintain integrity and his commitment to his constituents, who knew what he stood for and elected him, he had no choice but to draw public attention to his dilemma. He did!

Democratic criticism of Bush is only considered political sour grapes by the public, but people will pay attention to criticism by respectable Republicans. Can Republicans learn? Jeffords is a good Republican in exile.

Richard Blankenburg

San Diego

An elected official should not be permitted--by law--to change party affiliation during the term of office. To do so is a betrayal of public trust and a fraud upon the party. Jeffords’ timing is peculiar--allegedly he is blaming Bush for this decision. But since he has threatened this switch in the past, we can only conclude he is behaving in a petulant, opportunistic manner--and following the camera. If I resided in Vermont, I would move to recall Jeffords. If I had supported his campaign with a contribution, I would demand a refund, and so should the Republican Party.

Marianne Truitt

Marina del Rey

I can’t imagine why Bush would be upset that Jeffords has bolted the party. After all, George W. is a moderate, too--he said so all last year during his campaign. True, he has betrayed his promises and has been governing slightly to the right of Ronald Reagan during his first four months, but now Jeffords’ action will force him to be an honest man again.

Paul Gulino

Irvine

Please--let’s get real. Does any hard-working citizen care who the hell is in the majority in the Senate? I doubt it. We’re far too busy paying taxes and wondering how we’re going to give our kids a decent education, free of governmental interference and the public school system.

I thought the Republicans would be better, but know what? They stink also. It’s little wonder half of the citizens who are qualified to vote stay home. I sure will next time.

Edward T. Graney

Laguna Beach