Ed Roybal

Your interview with former Rep. Ed Roybal (“Grandfather of Latino Politics Faults New Leaders,” July 27) brought back memories of this longtime L.A. politician in 1976, when I was his last Democratic Party primary opponent during his congressional career. It was after Watergate and I hoped I could catch the glow of change in the winds. In addition, I had a goal of a branch Social Security office for Highland Park. Alas, it was not to be and I was trounced by the pro.

Shortly afterward, I went to his office to enlist him in obtaining the Social Security office. I had worked on it for a year. We were one push from getting it. (Thanks to him, we did.) He was running late that day and I didn’t want to take up his time, so I made it a quick interview. Good thing, too, because his office was filled with the ordinary common people of L.A. waiting to see their congressman. It was something I haven’t seen before or since. It was also a sight to behold in the office of one of the most powerful men in the Congress and a reflection of him. Enough said.

MICHAEL P. RIVES

Los Angeles