Political corruption

Re “It’s the Democrats’ turn in the glare,” Dec. 10

The Times reviews the charges against Illinois Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich, then mentions an ethics investigation of Rep. Charles B. Rangel of New York, briefly summarizes the serious legal problems of Rep. William J. Jefferson of Louisiana and mentions former New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer’s resignation.

All of these individuals are members of the Democratic Party. What else links them? Their offenses, proved or alleged, occurred far apart in time and distance. What does being a Democrat have to do with it?

Your implication is misleading. There is plenty of information available about corruption in the Bush administration -- corruption that can properly be called “Republican” because the individuals are linked.

Jon Eddison

Los Angeles

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Re “Illinois gov. arrested in scandal,” Dec. 10

In a political era that produced Sens. Larry Craig and John Edwards; Govs. Spitzer and Blagojevich; and Reps. Vito Fossella and Tim Mahoney, it’s difficult to imagine which of the seven deadly sins has not been violated by our elected officials.

For such an industrious group, sloth must be the only sin left untouched. Clearly lust, gluttony, greed, wrath, envy and pride are covered.

Allan Margolin

New York

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The governor of Illinois may have the answer to our budget deficit. The Republican Party would pay millions -- maybe billions -- if it could buy the Illinois Senate seat.

Just think of the money the government could make if it put all 100 Senate seats up for sale.

James T. Phillips

Torrance