Tom Hayden’s Vices and Virtues
Mona Gable’s article on Tom Hayden described him perfectly (“Defining Tom Hayden,” Dec. 10). During more than 20 years as a highly paid elected official, Hayden has demonstrated no leadership, no solid progress, no valid creativity, faulty planning and a string of failed programs. Sounds like he’d fit right in on the Los Angeles City Council.
Mariene Waller
Monterey Park
*
Hayden is an extraordinary phenomenon--a brilliant public servant who truly believes in serving the people, especially those whose voices are never heard. At 60 he is one of the heroes of the new generation of activists. He has not lost his commitment, courage and passion for justice. His detractors are irritated by the fact that he can’t be bought and perplexed by his clarity of purpose. If only we had more Tom Haydens!
Tanja Winter
La Jolla
*
Over Hayden’s long and unimpressive career, the state Legislature and the initiative process have been littered with his legislative “efforts” that offer knee-jerk, emotional reactions rather than clear-thinking solutions. Hayden consistently has been unwilling to listen to opposing views or accept intelligent input when promoting his agenda. He’s now looking at continuing his political life at the expense of city residents. Los Angeles needs leadership--not coyotes, eagles and buffaloes. Hayden is not, and never has been, in touch with reality. It’s time for him to stop feeding at the public trough and find a real job!
S. Erin Holmes
Los Angeles
*
For environmentalists, park advocates, education reformers, students, homeowners, renters, gang-intervention workers, inner-city youth and so many others who want to make Los Angeles a better place, Hayden remains very relevant. His conscience-driven brand of politics is desperately needed.
Janet Weeks
Encino
*
Why isn’t Hayden leaving a strong political legacy despite his “good works?” Well, I remember a post-election party in the ‘70s that was thrown by the California Democratic Council. Hayden marched in and stormed at all of us left-wingers for not supporting him 100% (I believe it had been 90-something percent). Heated words were exchanged and Hayden stalked out. He had, and probably still has, all the arrogance of the self-righteous. When will he learn that brats finish last?
Betty Schneider
Encino
*
This generation of young people needs Hayden and what he stands for--being aware and full of hope for all cultures in a state and country doped to the gills with consumerism.
Kate Gale
Los Angeles
*
He’s baaaack. No, it’s not the buzz-saw-wielding guy--or is it? Jane Fonda’s boy-toy politico wannabe Tom (are you still here?) Hayden. People kept voting for him. Which proves, in a democracy, that people get what they deserve.
Nora Barsuk
Glendale
*
I was surprised that your profile ignored Hayden’s exceptional contributions to the environment and public health in California. The breadth of his interests, unshakable idealism and relentless advocacy on behalf of victims make Hayden one of the most compelling figures of our generation. While other leaders of the progressive ‘60s quickly faded into irrelevance, Hayden continues to search for new ways to make a difference. I hope he never stops.
Joel R. Reynolds
Natural Resources Defense Council
Los Angeles
*
Apparently Gable’s feelings were hurt because she couldn’t get an interview with Hayden for two months. So she tries to convince us that we should not feel grateful for a politician of his caliber. She does not succeed.
Marilyn Russell
Los Angeles
*
I have to ask what prompted the author’s slant? What exactly constitutes success in her opinion? If you look at the history of social change, you’ll discover a vital and effective role best described as a thorn in the side of the powerful. To take on this role requires the uncommon courage and conviction that consistently have been at the heart of Hayden’s character. Sounds like the definition of a hero to me.
Teri Karshner
Los Angeles