‘West Wing’ critics weigh in

REGARDING Brian Lowry’s column about “The West Wing” (“How High Can You Fly on a Left ‘Wing’? Viewers Cast Their Vote,” Nov. 13): Here’s the problem with “The West Wing” for many of us: We can’t hear and can’t understand what’s going on. No, we’re not deaf and yes, we can manage a remote control. Some of the actors don’t enunciate, some of the lines are so clipped and fast, and some of the references are so subtle. And it’s gotten worse this season.

Gail Giberson

Orange

*

I am a liberal Democrat, mind you, but I think the show has slowed down quite a bit. I’d like more of the feisty first lady and C.J. Right now, it’s too much about a bunch of smart, yet somewhat boring, white guys.

Terri de la Pena

Santa Monica

*

I don’t believe the problem is in the show’s being too liberal, as the talk-radio pundits rather predictably insist.

From its premiere, the great appeal of “West Wing” has been its fantasy projection of a moral White House, an escapist parallel universe where the inhabitants are serious-minded, well-intentioned public servants, as opposed to the dissolute frat boys and craven corporate hyenas that actually hold those jobs. This was the show’s appealing whimsy -- admirable politicians -- until the end of last season, when Aaron Sorkin hit on a story line wherein President Bartlet and his chief of staff conspired to assassinate the foreign minister of a fictional Middle East country. They actually killed a guy, cold-blooded assassination, and then spent the delightful opening episodes of this season covering up the crime.

Tim Doyle

Burbank

*

WITH the media all but ignoring the liberal political agenda these days, I thank God for Aaron Sorkin, who presents a thoughtful alternative view on the major issues facing the White House. I may not always agree with the way “West Wing’s” President Jed Bartlet handles situations, but I do agree with him far more frequently than I agree with George W. Bush. Until the Democrats can find someone to adequately represent their political platform, I am happy to have Sorkin speak on my behalf.

Cindy Mediavilla

Culver City