Letters

National Review, Sept 29, 2003

--Re John J. Miller's article "The Awful Specter of Yet Another Term" (Sept. 1): Most Pennsylvania Republicans recognize that Congressman Pat Toomey's candidacy would likely turn a safe Republican seat over to the Democrats. Pennsylvania recently elected a Democrat as governor by a wide margin.

Mr. Toomey's campaign may cause Senator Specter to so identify himself with President Bush as to put Specter at risk against a vigorous Democratic opponent.

Robert E. Field

Lancaster, Pa.

--Arlen Specter's negatives could have filled the entire issue. A fact not noted is that after the Clarence Thomas-Anita Hill controversy, when Specter was in his next general-election race, he pandered to the Left and the feminists, denouncing his support of Thomas and apologizing for it. That's his M.O.: do a few things right every six years to secure renomination, then turn left for reelection.

Many Pennsylvanians are prepared to vote for "anyone but Specter." Congressman Pat Toomey has talent, ability, and integrity, so we can take pride in voting for him instead of just registering protest votes.

Albert H. Bienstock

Camp Hill, Pa.

--Anthony Daniels's article "Big Men, Big Corruption" (Aug. 11) incompletely describes the political reality on the African continent.

Mr. Daniels makes no mention of the chronic tensions precipitated by the often violent incursions of radical Muslim forces into territories, from Sudan to Nigeria, with significant Christian populations.

Missionaries, if not the press, report that religious warfare is a major factor in African political/cultural/economic turmoil. We must not ignore this basic reality.

J. Thomas Whetstone

Arden, N.C.

--In the July 28 issue, both Ramesh Ponnuru ("Coming Out Ahead") and Gerard V. Bradley ("Stand and Fight") use the term "gay marriage" in their articles. This is an oxymoron. Use terms such as "gay relationship" or "gay union," but please don't misuse the word "marriage." We have few enough words left that represent important values.

Alan B. Williams

Augusta, Ga.

--Conservatives should perhaps welcome Harvey Milk High School (The Week, Sept. 1). Finally, a high school that will have no problems with teenage pregnancy!

Denise Noe

Atlanta, Ga.

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