Pro-Development, Slow-Growth Labels
In a story run April 13 regarding Hal Maloney withdrawing from the mayor’s race in Irvine, you referred to Larry Agran as a slow-growth advocate and myself as a pro-development candidate. I object strongly to both terms, as neither is based on fact.
When I requested an explanation of the pro-development label, the first question I was asked was: “Are you against Measure A?” It appears to me as if there is a tendency to group those as for Measure A as slow-growthers and those against Measure A as pro-development. These terms have significant connotations today, and to arbitrarily put a label on someone based on one issue in inappropriate.
I would like to draw an analogy. Patrick Henry, the great statesman and patriot, fought against the wording of the U.S. Constitution, because he felt it was not worded to guarantee our freedoms. He was not labeled as pro-British but was listened to, and due to this voice we now have the Bill of Rights.
The Times has enjoyed a fine reputation in the community for many years. Don’t lose that reputation by allowing personal biases to slip into the news.
BARRY J. HAMMOND
Irvine
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