. . . are too dirty

To the editor:

I read the article about former Senator Kassebaum’s view of the political world today. Her view of being a freshman woman senator was right on, but in her term, if you followed her political views and actions, she accomplished more for Kansas and the small communities than what probably anyone realized at the time because her quiet ways never seemed to want to muddy the waters she was treading.

I believe she is correct in pointing out the dirty politics in this year’s campaigns. The millions of dollars that are spent tearing down the opponent seem the only way to be elected.

As she points out, the two parties have strayed so far to the right or left that there is no thoughtful debate taking place on any issue, it seems, to bring about any gainful policy.

When I had a chance to talk to her in person at the many Burdick events, I could rely on being able to get her views on many local government issues we had in Marion County.

On another note, I was also glad to see two former Centre students I had while teaching there [Mike Beneke and David Mueller] indicating they were going to try reaching out to each other, no matter which one was elected as a commissioner of Marion County.

Mary Olson, Peabody