I’ve been appalled and sometimes offended, but not very surprised at the mailings I’ve received from Republican candidates. But, I’m especially insulted by Linda Haddon’s campaign. As a long time Republican leaning independent, I find myself willing to vote for anyone, but I’ll not be voting for many republicans this election. I will not cast a vote for Linda Haddon.

Anyone who must stoop to such low levels to only publish lies and half truths about their opponent must not have anything to say to me on her own behalf that would earn my vote.

What can she do for Island County as a freshman senator anyway? Well, if she wants to be backed by the party for re-election she’ll probably keep her mouth shut and toe the party line. As much a she would like us to believe she can accomplish miracles the practical truth is far from that.

What can the senior senator do for Island County? Darn near anything she wants. What has she done for us? Well, this year she brought us the first new state park to be opened in years. This will bring many tourist dollars into the county. Island Transit has benefited significantly from her presence in Olympia, and riders as well as non-riders have gained greatly. In these days of economic hardship her activity on both have brought jobs and dollars to the county.

Linda Haddon asserts very clearly in a recent full color mailing that her opponent, Sen. Mary Margaret Haugen, shouldn’t be re-elected because she’s old. Apparently, she finds old people unsuited to hold public office. Now, from the pictures I’ve seen of her maybe she needs to reconsider her own candidacy if old people aren’t competent to hold office.

I guess I happen to be one of the old people Ms. Haddon finds obsolete. I proudly wore the uniform of my country, got an education and lived the American dream. Now Ms. Haddon would have me and others like me hang up our coats, grab a book, and retire from society to our rocking chairs.

I won’t be drawn in to vote for Ms. Haddon by unsupported accusations and half-truth in mailings that smell strongly of dead fish. She either never had a message for the voter or she’s afraid she’s losing this election and has sunk to the lowest levels. From the smell emanating from her mailings I think it’s both.

Robert W. Rose

Coupeville