To the editor:

First, the supporters of President Bush were alleged to be suffering “illusions and delusions,” (Brizendine letter of July 17). Then, they were accused of having “short memories” and being “dull-thinking,” (Deveraux letter of Aug. 5). Finally, it was inferred that any objection to Bush Supporter Bashing (objection contained in Hewitt letter of Aug. 2) was an attempt to stifle free speech, (Brizendine letter of Aug. 6 and Ozegovic letter of Aug. 7).

I completely agree that every citizen has an absolute right to disagree with the government or a candidate for public office and to express that disagreement. Some recent letters to the editor, however, seem to be attacking fellow citizens who happen to hold a differing political point of view. While the latter comments are also protected free speech, I think they are both inaccurate and ill-advised.

I consider myself to be a well-educated (undergraduate degree and JD from Kansas University), hard-working (38 years of public service protecting free speech rights) and patriotic (decorated Vietnam veteran) American. As such, I, and all citizens, have earned the right to make a reasoned, personal decision on who should lead our country for the next four years without being criticized or labeled as mentally deficient. That is true whether the decision is to vote for President Bush, Sen. Kerry or Mr. Nader.

The theme of former President Clinton’s statesmanlike address at the Dole Institute recently was that we need to learn to disagree without “hating.”

I agree.

Jim Flory,

Lawrence