As an “Internet illiterate” and a card carrying, convention attending, unapologetically partisan Republican, please permit me the opportunity to publicly urge a decision by Congressman Reichert to not seek re-election in a manner with which I am familiar.

My main point of contention with Mr. Reichert’s services as my representative is his repeatedly pronounced acquiescence to any propsed legislation even remotely connected to so-called environmental issues. He failed to uphold party positions and principles, ignoring his base constituency with his votes on ANWR drilling, allowing oil tankers in Elliot Bay, additions to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area, and most recently, his vote on cap and trade legislation.

In my humble opinion, his first term photo opportunity genuflection to Nancy Pelosi when she dropped her shoe was not a point in his favor, either.

I would find voting for an avowed Democrat thoroughly unpalatable, yet I will find it exceedingly difficult if not impossible to hold my nose and vote for a purportedly Republican candidate who has become a mere officehoder. I am tempted to leave the Congressional oval on my ballot blank and letting the people who count the all mail-in ballots decide who I voted for, or more likely, wasting my vote on a write-in candidate. I know that I am not alone in this sentiment.

1 would like to strongly suggest that Mr. Reichert announce as soon as possible his decision not to seek re-election in order that a suitable replacemenent can be recruited and to minimize collateral damage or to change his affiliation to the Democratic Party, where he may feel more comfortable should he choose to run again.

Considering all of the nice things that the Democrats have said about him in past elections, that would be an interesting race.

It is my sincere hope that Mr. Reichert may soon spend the twilight of his productive years doing work that he loves, perhaps in charge of night security at the Supermall.

Edward D. Neil

Enumclaw