I ran for state representative twice as a Democrat, and although I lost both times, I enjoyed running and learned a lot. But honestly, I'm not a good democrat. I support women's rights but oppose abortion. I support worker's rights but oppose forced union dues. And I support gun rights and smaller government. I also think the biggest problem facing our country is the spiraling national debt. We've got to quit printing money and giving it to everybody. The giveaways erode individual independence, family ties and corporate responsibility.

But I wouldn't make a good Republican either. I oppose subsidies to businesses of all kinds. In addition to supporting women's rights and worker's rights, I support gay rights and immigrant rights. I support reasonable environmental protection and decent wages for everyone who works. I support having a strong military, but oppose using it to police the world.

I've always voted for the person I thought best for the office, regardless of party, so I guess I'm an Independent. In any case, if I ever run for office again, I won't run as a Democrat or Republican.

Respectfully,

Gary L. Gaines, Cape Girardeau