Linda Tripp

Re “Tripp Returns to Pentagon Work, in Different Job,” March 3:

I was very glad to read that Linda Tripp has returned to work in the Pentagon as a public affairs specialist. She was so good to involve herself in the private affairs of other people that surely she will be good in public affairs as well. The fact that this trustworthy (ask Monica Lewinsky for references) public servant will do her job for only $94,098, which is merely $20,000 or $30,000 more than the salary of a university professor, is a great bargain for the Pentagon. Knowing that she works for the Department of Defense makes me feel safe already.

DAVID SHICHOR

Fullerton

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Using thinly veiled threats regarding the power of the presidency, Lewinsky actively tried to get Tripp to commit perjury and aid the administration’s obstruction of justice. Tripp did what any honest and intelligent person in her situation would do--she refused and took steps to cover her backside. Tripp did nothing wrong; it was Lewinsky who betrayed their friendship.

The fact that our society would have preferred it if Tripp had just gone along with the rest of the criminals speaks volumes.

CURT MATSUNE

Walnut

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What is this nonsense about the immunity grant prohibiting Lewinsky from telling about what happened in the hours-long interrogation at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel by six--or whatever the number was--independent counsel lawyers and the FBI? Immunity was given her so that she would talk and tell the truth. What does the enforced silence have to do with it? Sounds suspiciously like a cover-up.

FRED OKRAND

Sherman Oaks

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Let’s see if I’ve got this straight. During the impeachment trials, when our elected officials were upholding their constitutional duties, the polls said that an astounding percentage of Americans were disinterested--tired of the whole Clinton/Lewinsky sordid affair and wanting to get on with the important business of our country.

Then came the March 3 ABC interview. High ratings? You bet! And watched by whom, may I ask? The same majority of people who “had no interest”?

I’m saddened to realize that the majority of this country’s people seems to reflect an obsession with gutter hysteria instead of pride in people who rise to their moral and constitutional duties.

SALLY WADE

Hacienda Heights

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After reading your March 4 front-page report of the former intern’s “affair,” I have concluded that both ABC and Barbara Walters have elevated, glorified and exploited the art and success of slutting to an elite glamor status. All this to obtain high TV ratings and of course for money.

Larry Flynt must be cheering, jeering and gloating, for his craft has just been legitimized.

LES REEKERS

Thousand Oaks

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There will be many people with egg on their faces when President Clinton retires from office, divorces Sen. Hillary, marries Monica and then becomes governor of California.

STUART VON

Phillips Ranch