Dear Editor:

In the midst of our current political campaign for the fast approaching elections, our former President’s tribalism has continued on, without regard for breaking laws, both petty and huge, by him and by most of those close to him. We in Minnesota have been fortunate enough that common sense has prevailed with regard to policies affecting us in small communities, from funding for schools, equal treatment for public employees, and a respect for the institutions which have so clearly given us a very comfortable lifestyle.

Although our present Governor has clearly come under a good deal of criticism from political opponents, he has worked across the aisle, to the extent possible, and has continued an agenda addressed at bettering the lives of middle class Minnesotans. He has embraced an agenda which attempts to fully fund schools, the backbone of most small Minnesota communities. He has stood strong for a woman’s right to choose without imposing any moral or religious views upon a diverse electorate.

As we continue to work through our differences, it is my sincere hope that some of the negative rhetoric can be stifled in order to let common sense and the will of the majority to actually prevail. Vote any way you want, but respect the fact that others might think differently than you. Finally, leave one another’s yard signs alone and grow up.

Dennis Phelps

Westbrook