Robbins Resigns From Senate

Reading The Times brings hope for our world as Eduard Shevardnaze and Alan Robbins each start new chapters of their lives.

Having resigned in December, 1990, out of principle from his powerful position as Soviet foreign minister, Shevardnaze is now being recognized for his dedication to policy and people over pragmatic pursuit of his own interests.

The contrasting future of Robbins--resignation from the state Senate, from the California State Bar and five years in prison--speaks sufficiently for the path that he long pursued. Can anyone imagine Robbins resigning over a moral or policy disagreement?

Perhaps American voters will begin to learn that pandering to constituents’ parochial concerns is not the sole litmus test for reelection. Ideals and integrity must also have their place in the accountability for public officials.

WOODY MOSTEN, Los Angeles