Commissioner Quackenbush

* Again we learn of our tarnished insurance commissioner’s apparently devious self-promotion and diversion of quake funds to the tune of millions of dollars, not the least of which were his $3-million TV ads (April 25).

Chuck Quackenbush sure did a great job of sprinkling the money around to his cronies and to nonquake-related activities. After all, it wasn’t his money; it was just money entrusted to him to assist quake victims. Then he has the gall to defend his actions, though “none of the money obtained in the settlement has reached the victims of the 1994 quake”!

Recently, we heard that Quackenbush has plans to run for some other office. Apparently in preparation for that, he conveniently placed himself in the TV ads. After all, what a great means of self-promotion at the expense of those Northridge quake victims. Interestingly, he found time to dole out $5.6 million, with nothing to date for the intended purpose of the money.

The state hearings on his activities should be quite a revelation and put an end to him and this apparent outrage.

MARV GONSIOR

Fullerton

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Isn’t there anyone to speak for Insurance Commissioner Quackenbush and his office? Last fall, when my own automobile insurance company of over 30 years would not return my requests for a quote of auto insurance for the coming year by the deadline and several others did the same, I was perplexed and distressed. Since my driving record remains perfect since becoming a driver in 1957, my guess was my age--68--might be a problem.

In my distress, I called Quackenbush’s office. To my utter amazement, Quackenbush answered my call on the first attempt. He listened patiently to my problem, showed concern for my dilemma and said that the proper forms would be mailed to me immediately. Upon their return, immediate action would be taken.

Consequently, I received letters of apology from both the district and regional offices of my longtime insurance company. Later, a refund was sent since I had, in the interim, found another insurer.

ELIZABETH “LAUREL”

CROSSLEY

Oxnard

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If the facts reported are substantiated, it would appear Quackenbush’s actions represent textbook examples of bribery, conflict of interest and several other disgraceful examples of malfeasance in office. Yet there appears serious doubt that he has, in fact, violated the laws of this state. Could it be that the best insurance commissioner money can buy will be spared criminal conviction by the laws passed (or not passed) by the best Legislature money can buy?

SAM SUITT

Torrance

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It seems our trusty insurance commissioner thinks he is being persecuted because he’s a Republican (April 22). Right. As far as I’m concerned, busted is busted. Now, could we please get a commissioner who cares more about consumers than his/her political career?

CYNTHIA BUEKER

Carlsbad