Fence Post writer didn't speak for me

Thanks for printing the letter from Mr. Guckenberger of Batavia. It makes readers aware of the lack of respect for our leaders and downright hatefulness which sometimes characterizes our current politics.

I am constantly amazed that some writers claim to speak for the majority of voters when they have no way of knowing what many of us think. I suppose a small margin in an election gives such know-it-alls courage of their convictions.

Many of my friends were sorry to see Bill Foster replaced. I watched him meet with voters on many occasions, reassuring us he was studying the issues and bills carefully. His background in his own business and as a scientist prepared him to struggle with difficult decisions facing Congress.

The fact that we are surviving the recession, business has improved a bit and new jobs are coming to Illinois should cause us to be grateful for thoughtful leadership. I do not expect a representative or senator to vote according to my dictates but to use wisdom and information available in Washington in crafting good laws.

We have a long way to go to improve the governmental process, get spending under control, pay our bills and stop being a debtor nation. That will require cooperation in Washington and all over our great nation.

Ellen McDonald

South Elgin