LETTERS: OTHER PARTIES HAVE CANDIDATES IN THIS ELECTION

To the editor:

Election Day is near, and you would think according to the polls that only Al Gore and George Bush exist. Even worse is the idea that the U.S. Senate race is between John Ashcroft and a dead man.

This Election Day does not have to be about which of the two evils you will chose from. There are other choices. And as much as the two greater evils would like you to think you don't have another choice, you do.

There are many other choices, and there are some really great ones. They include the Libertarian Party, Green Party, Taxpayers Party, Reform Party and Constitution Party. There are even Socialist and a Communist parties for those of you who have forgotten why this great country was founded to begin with.

This election is very close, but there is still time to ask tough questions of the people who are running for office. Explore the Internet sites that explain each party's stand on the issues. Explore the library for a world of knowledge on the issues and candidates. Don't get all your information from the television or the newspaper. They don't give you all the facts.

There is no reason not to vote except absolute lack of responsibility to your country. This election, make it a point to find out whom you are voting for. Take the time to explore the other possibilities. Read the amendments. Exercise your rights. And make an educated choice.

CAROL POOLE

Jackson, Mo.