Get the facts right before spouting off

Regarding Chris Peterson's assertion that Sen. Tom Coburn requested prayers for Sen. Byrd's death or incapacitation, the facts are that in a recent senate speech he asked for prayers that "somebody" (no name specified) would be unable to vote in favor of the health plan. Perhaps a poor choice of words, but that's certainly not unusual in senate speeches from either side of the aisle.

However, what really struck me in his unsubstantiated rant was the ridiculous assertion that "... less than 12 percent of Americans call themselves Republicans." Where does that come from?

The latest Gallup Poll on the subject (Dec. 11-13) shows 29 percent Republicans, with a total of 43 percent leaning in that direction. If you're going to cite statistics, at least get your facts straight.

Jerry Ellsworth

Mount Prospect