Politician Beware When Crossing Party Lines

“Senator Pays Price for Defying GOP” ( Aug. 26) just amazed me. The bitterness and party-line control of the Republican Party is amazing. Where is it written that, when elected, state senators under no circumstances can cast votes from the heart, have minds of their own and think logically, unless it falls within their own party’s viewpoints? These types of controls destroy the very fabric of our state and federal elections.

I cast my vote for those running for public office on vision, merit and what they have to offer, regardless of party. My hat’s off to state Sen. Maurice Johannessen (R-Redding) for having the courage to cast his vote in a manner he felt was best for California. Republicans never seem to get it. People don’t want far-right-wing puppets. Look out, House Majority Whip Tom DeLay (R-Texas): We have many Republican politicians here in California eyeing your job.

Steve Lee

Pomona

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The shunning of Johannessen shows one of the reasons I switched from Republican to nonpartisan years ago. I realize the story could just as well be about Democrats. A politician willing to vote his conscience and not toe the party line no matter what will get my vote every time.

David Lessley

Burbank