To the editor:

As news unfolds, we are constantly reminded that our elected, appointed, or “wannabe” officials are constantly lying. They say “I did nothing wrong” and take the Fifth (IRS, VA); or “so and so is not an adviser” (S. Blumenthal), but that is false; claim no knowledge of email arrangements on TV (60 Minutes), but hide emails that prove it’s a lie; or promote a story (Bengazi video) to hide policy flaws. The public should demand the truth, no matter how appalling or unsettling it is.

Taking oaths of office, our appointed and elected officials swear to uphold the Constitution, our laws, and faithfully execute their duties. Instead, they selectively enforce laws, ignore regulations and decide to interpret regulations as they see fit. When exposed, nothing is done. They deny, hide, delay, procrastinate or blame the system. They collect their bonuses and pensions and move on to become lobbyists.

Many people distrust government in any form. Time and again our officials have shown they are undeserving. Before you vote next time, ask yourself if that person addressed the truth about solutions to our problems, or are they pushing another agenda? Some in politics think that veracity (truthfulness) is overrated. As the craziness of the election cycle gathers steam, no one has earned my trust.