Hastert's departure leaves quite a mess

So, Congressman Hastert, you have decided to resign before your term is up. I wish I could be happy for you, but I can't help thinking about all the chaos and cost involved with your selfish and self-absorbed decision. Let me count the ways.

• You have broken a promise to your constituents. You chose to run for another term and you were elected for a full term. Your early departure is a clear signal that this is about you and not the citizens you represent.

• The special election, the research, the legal challenges etc. That will certainly ensue will be extremely costly. I can't imagine the number of zeros at the end of the price tag. All paid for with precious tax dollars.

• The primary race will be a large distraction to state and local governments. Most, if not all, of these groups need no further distraction from their already poor performance.

• We will have to endure a media frenzy and seemingly endless campaigning from all the hopeful candidates.

• Our district for all practical purposes will not be represented in the U.S. House of Representatives. How effective can a "short term" guy be once elected? He won't even get his bags unpacked in Washington before the next scheduled election.

We can only speculate as to why the early departure. Let me offer a few possibilities:

• Too hard just being an Indian after being the chief?

• Want to retire with fanfare and special attention that might be lost later?

• Some trumped up strategic move to help the Republican Party retain your seat?

Whatever the reason, we deserve better from you than this. There is a huge price tag in dollars, resources and time that has to be paid by all those you are leaving behind.

I would like to tell you how disappointing and frustrating it is to have t o endure this mess you are leaving us, but I don't think you would understand.

Dick Graff

Geneva