Nixon on Pardoning North, Poindexter

Once again The Times favorite whipping boy gets thrashed. Nixon had granted an interview to NBC, and the result is The Times demanding a pound of flesh.

It is evident that the interview was self-serving to NBC for ratings and to Nixon for plugging his new book. However, Nixon spoke on a variety of issues. He gave honest, clear and concise answers to complex questions. His analysis of geopolitics, domestic and social issues were both enlightening and insightful.

Although Nixon lacks the endearing personality of Ronald Reagan, or the media’s blessing as New York Gov. Mario Cuomo, Nixon does have many important things to say. However, the self-appointed moralists on The Times editorial staff believe that he “should keep those thoughts to himself.”

Gee guys, you moan about the infringements on freedoms of speech and press. You perceive any form of censorship as having a chilling effect upon speech, and then advocate that a former President shouldn’t give his opinion. If such is the case, don’t ask the questions or don’t give the interview.

Nixon is damned is he does or damned if he doesn’t. I think that’s both unfair and unethical. The man is a national resource who should be utilized rather than battered by the fourth estate.

Then again, I keep forgetting you guys have all the morality marbles in your hands, just none in your heads.

D. MOREN

Newport Beach