Kenneth Starr

Two omissions are noted from “10 Things We Learned From Starr,” Opinion, Oct. 24: First, in mentioning how partisan and conspiratorial the selection of Kenneth Starr appeared, nothing was noted about the union between Republicans involved and Starr himself with Big Tobacco. Second, in complaining about Lawrence Walsh’s handling of Iran-Contra, no mention was made of Walsh’s final report citing probable complicity in the act and its cover-up between five people, including the president--but with no impeachment suggestion. In that instance, Democrats’ reluctance saved the nation as nasty a time as Starr’s actions brought on. Much depends not only on the true independence of the independent counsel, but also on the willingness or reluctance of congressional leaders to embark on sometimes pointless nastiness.

WILLARD HANZLIK

Seal Beach

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I agree on one point: Starr did not change from good to evil when he was appointed independent counsel. However, I can’t agree with the rest of the article.

The thing that changed about Starr was the media’s presentation of him. The lesson we should learn is a favorite of high-priced defense attorneys: If you can’t win a trial of your client, try the prosecutor. The Clintons settled on the strategy of trying Starr and the media bought into it. Some articles tried to make victims out of the felons identified by Starr. Many complained about the cost. I guess 25 cents a citizen is too high a price to pay to find out if the president is fit for office and to clean up Arkansas politics.

No one who is not used to the public spotlight could withstand such an onslaught. Starr’s approval rating was down to near zero after the negative articles. You guys win. Shame on you.

RICHARD SMETS

West Hollywood