The Right to Express Political Views

Recently I put up a poster for a presidential candidate in front of my home in the tree section of Manhattan Beach. The following morning I was astonished to find the poster had been vandalized: The candidate’s name had been changed and the words had been altered to express a political view disparaging mine. This sinister, immature and cowardly individual has violated one of democracy’s basic principles, that of the right to express one’s political views in public. In fact, I believe it is a misdemeanor if not a felony to deface election signs.

The real threat to our country is this form of homegrown terrorism. Each American has a right to support peacefully the candidate of his or her choice.

Marybeth Sharp

Manhattan Beach

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I understand it’s only April, but I’m pretty sure I already know who I’m voting for in the presidential race come November -- nobody. Some will think that I’m wasting a vote; others will call it irresponsible. The way I see it, how could I, in good conscience, vote for a candidate for the sake of voting without believing in him? Sadly, there are many more who feel the same way.

President Bush has done enough to be voted out, yet Sen. John Kerry as the “alternate” choice is like choosing Bush’s mirror. Bush is ideologically inflexible and politically cocky. Kerry’s ideology is too fluid and is motivationally boring. Too much character assassination, not enough character. Where have all the moderate candidates gone?

Until they show up, I’m voting for no one.

Matthew Gage

Brea