ColCourEd

Printed In the Columbine Courier

Your article about the House district 22 race has compelled me to respond. I did not see the mailings, but I am dismayed that Matt Knoedler apparently felt necessary to make an issue of the fact that Pete Mazula received some union PAC money. So what? First of all, keep in mind that monies from union dues cannot be donated to candidates. That money is a separate fund given directly by the members.

Educated union members are justifiably concerned about Right to Work for (Less) legislation. Union members are justifiably concerned about the walmarting of America and the rise of corporate elitism. Our founding fathers warned that economic power would one day seize political power. Unions are just democratic organizations that help maintain a fair balance. Why do we have three branches of government? Have people forgotten why we celebrate Labor Day? Have people forgotten that unions are partially responsible for the standard of living and safe working conditions that so many people now take for granted? Unions still serve the same purpose even though our greatest failure has been our success.

We know Pete Mazula. He is hard working activist who earned a chance to serve in the House primarily because of his experience, not his political connections. Pete would put people over ideology. I hope to be a volunteer for his campaign in 2006.