Letters

0 Comments | Gazette, The (Colorado Springs), Aug 9, 2008

5th district race

Rayburn has attributes needed to gain trust of constituents

I think few would disagree that to be an effective representative of the people requires trust. And, according to Gen. Colin Powell, a person must have demonstrated some key attributes and personal traits in order to gain and keep the trust of others. According to Powell these attributes are: competence, character, courage, loyalty and confidence. Bentley Rayburn is the only candidate seeking the 5th Congressional District ofice that has a documented record of living all of these attributes.

Even before attending and graduating from the Air Force Academy, Rayburn had demonstrated competence in all he undertook. However, while attending the academy his competence and character became his prerequisite for what already was being recognized as outstanding leadership abilities. From flying the world's most sophisticated combat aircraft, including on combat missions, to being responsible for outlining America's warfighting doctrine for years to come, he has done it all with courage and confidence.

Rayburn stands for values and ideals that highlight his character, courage and loyalty to our country and its citizens.

Trust, again, according to Powell, requires selflessness, sacrifice and empathy. Rayburn has demonstrated he possesses these traits, along with those above.

Demonstrate your trust for a truly great American and leader by voting Bentley Rayburn for Congress.

Dale L. Goodell

Colorado Springs

Incumbent Lamborn has proven his worth to area's voters

I know all three of the Republican candidates for the 5th Congressional District. I respect all three, but this race is about electing the best person to represent us in Congress. That person is clearly our current congressman, Doug Lamborn.

Lamborn promised to vote to protect our hard-earned tax dollars and support the values of our citizens. He has done exactly that, and has continued the solid record of achievement he began in the Colorado General Assembly.

In his first term, he has proved to be one of the most conservative legislators in Congress. He has also demonstrated the leadership to be assigned to three House committees that directly affect our district: the powerful Armed Services Committee, Veterans Affairs, and Natural Resources. Being assigned to the Armed Services Committee as a freshman is extremely rare. Being assigned to three major committees is almost unheard of, and shows the tremendous confidence placed in him by the Republican leadership. He has already been able to pass legislation to ffx the Leadville Mine Drainage Tunnel to stop pollution that could pollute the Arkansas River and Colorado Springs' water supply.

Lamborn has earned endorsements from virtually every major conservative group. He has consistently received 100 percent or A ratings from national gun groups.

I am happy to join with other Republican elected oflcials to say Doug Lamborn is the person we need to advance our conservative agenda in Washington. He has been effective in Congress. I urge the voters of the 5th Congressional District to join me in voting for Rep. Doug Lamborn.

Rep. Kent Lambert

State House District 14 Colorado Springs

Rayburn inspires those around him with his can-do spirit

Bentley Rayburn impresses. How refreshing is this candidate who avoids ordinary political rhetoric, tactics and negative campaigning? He always conducts himself in a positive manner. Rayburn leads, and gets things done. When you're around him, you're inspired to do more and be more because of his example.

He tells you the whole truth and infects you with his can-do spirit. Rayburn is immediately likeable. As you get to know him better, your respect for him grows.

I've been around Bentley a lot. Not once have I heard or seen anything negative from him. Not once have I seen him lose his composure. He's always humble, capable, positive, dignified. He doesn't attack others to make himself look better. He has no need. He stands on his own credentials. He requires volunteers and campaign staff to take the same high road he takes.

He's never about Bentley Rayburn. He's sincere, genuine. Ego never gets in his way. He will always work for Colorado and for the nation. His family values and religious values are above reproach. He has the utmost character and integrity. He keeps his cool under pressure, always thinking and acting with a clear head.

I'm proud to stand with the candidate with the best record and the most leadership experience. There is but one clear choice in the 5th Congressional District race and that choice is Bentley Rayburn.

Nora Wiley

Colorado Springs

Amendment 47

Colorado workers don't need law to destroy unions in state

Gazette readers might want to consider some facts before supporting Amendment 47 ("Amendment 47 a boon to workers," Our View, Aug. 3). Colorado is currently termed a "modified right-to-work" state, meaning that a super-majority is required in a Department of Labor-supervised election to establish a union shop.