PACs Win if Beilenson Loses
In a story in the Valley Edition (“Campaigns Cross District Lines to Tap Wealthiest Areas,” Feb. 2), we learned that Rep. Anthony C. Beilenson (D-Los Angeles) is one of 14 lawmakers nationwide who doesn’t take Political Action Committees’--lobbyists’--contributions, is one of the few in Congress who spent less as an incumbent than his challenger, and received the vast majority of his campaign funds from smaller contributions of his own constituents.
In a story in the California and the West section the same day (“Winds of Change to Sweep Over Congressional Lineup”), we learned that Beilenson, “a 16-year veteran, is the lone endangered Los Angeles-area incumbent.”
If Beilenson loses his West Valley seat in Congress, the message to other representatives will be clear: To hell with your constituents--take care of the special interests.
M. STEPHEN SHELDON, Studio City
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