Opinion: Let’s hear other political voices in the debates

To the editor: The Libertarian candidates for president and vice president — former New Mexico Gov. Gary Johnson and former Massachusetts Gov. Bill Weld — are highly qualified, with a record of honesty and extensive business and political experience. (“Let the long shots debate,” Editorial, Aug. 11, and “Let Gary Johnson, Jill Stein into debates,” Opinion, Aug. 10)

They should be allowed to participate in the presidential debates, especially in light of the fact that so many of us are unhappy with the choices provided by the two major parties.

However, by equating Johnson with Jill Stein, who is not a viable candidate (nor is her Green Party running mate Ajamu Baraka), referring to both as “outsiders,” without any mention of the qualifications of either candidate, writer Matt Welch actually hurts the the Johnson-Weld candidacy. That is shameful.

Judith Shapiro, Indian Wells

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To the editor: I absolutely agree with your editorial that the electoral process is desperately in need of an overhaul and that disparate voices need to be heard in the presidential election, but you’re dead wrong about allowing Johnson and Stein to poach attention from the two parties’ candidates this late in the game.

Where were Stein and Johnson a year and a half ago? How serious are they, really?

For better or for worse, we’re at the finals of this event — a one-on-one contest.

Besides, Trump should really have to face Clinton and not be allowed to divert attention with his personal attacks on Stein and Johnson.

Allowing them in the debates is like allowing me into the finals of the men’s 100 freestyle because I have a Speedo and a decent flip turn.

D. Paul Yeuell, Malibu

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To the editor: I’m surprised The Times wants to include third-party candidates in the debates. The debates happen a few weeks before the election.

We’ve listened to Clinton and Trump for two years, so we pretty much know where they stand, but what do we know of third-party candidates? How can we really research them in just a couple of weeks?

Candidates still have time to get to 15% in the polls. If they make it, they’re in.

If they get only 14% — well, only Pollyanna would believe you can go from 14% to winning the election.

Howard Morris, Rancho Cucamonga

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