WALTER ZELMAN

Zelman makes some excellent points. I was a little disappointed, however, by his attack on John Garamendi. He resents that Garamendi had the audacity to run against him and seemed to indicate that running for office was reserved for only a special few. He also particularly resented that the senator had run for office before.

Zelman failed to mention that Garamendi for a long time has been identified as a consumer advocate and that he has taken on special interests. Because of his championing causes, he has often been out of step with the powerful in group in Sacramento. Zelman also failed to note that in what is now almost 16 years in public office in a time when corruption and venality seem to be accepted in Sacramento, Garamendi has been left untouched by any scandal.

WILLIAM E. WEBSTER

Bakersfield