Congressional page scandal’s effect spreads

Re “Debate Turns to Future of Page Program,” Oct. 7

By all accounts, over its 177-year history the congressional page program has been a laudable civics lesson and an inestimable introduction to public service for youth. How disturbing it is to read that there are legislators who propose abolishing this institution because an elected representative cannot keep his deviant libido zipped up.

It’s a shame that the party that touts itself as the guardian of America’s values continues to point fingers rather than admit what it knew and did (or did not do) to prevent this scandal. It is not the pages but their misguided and hypocritical employers who should be banished from the Capitol’s chambers.

PHILIP TOM

Manhattan Beach

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The Republican Party may lose control of Congress in November. If so, much of the blame will probably be assigned to former Rep. Mark Foley. Yes, what he did was wrong, and the GOP leadership made things worse by trying to cover it up. But we need to remember our priorities. The Foley follies did not cause any deaths, unlike the actions of the Bush administration. Its futile war has killed thousands and continues with no end in sight. That should be the reason Republicans lose in November.

MIKE KIRWAN

Venice

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I’m a liberal Democrat who was appalled by Bill Clinton’s political crucifixion and impeachment by the Republicans for having a consensual affair with an adult. But enough is enough. The Republican leadership took a live-and-let-live approach to a closeted gay member and forced him to resign his House membership when explicit evidence of impropriety was brought to its attention. Don’t blame Republican leaders for what happened before that evidence was available. This political climate of puritanical frenzy and faux moral indignation is mutually self-destructive and must end.

BILL TILDEN

Oakland