January 29, 2007
Dear Editor,
Last November voters sent the message that they were tired of partisan politics. They clearly rejected the politics of personal destruction, childish name calling, and party line partisan attacks. Unfortunately, it appears that Butler County Democratic Chairman, Gary McEachern wasn’t listening, or even worse; simply doesn’t care.
On Jan 24th, the El Dorado Times published a letter that contained numerous personal attacks directed at me. This letter was part of a state wide effort by Kansas Democrats to attack Republicans serving in the State Legislature and U.S. Congress. In newspapers all across the state, letters were sent attacking people like me and other legislators..
Mr. McEachern’s letter was nothing more than a mean spirited attack and full frontal assault on my character. The letter was laced with half truths and unfounded accusations. I was never contacted to verify, deny, or explain anything. Is not the worse sin, one of known omission?
Had he written a similar letter like this about an ordinary citizen, instead of an elected official, he would no doubt find himself leaving a courtroom with a little less money in his wallet. However, since his letter is considered "political speech" he is free to lie and spit venom.
Regardless of the legality, this type of behavior accomplishes little more than hurting family members and friends who know better and makes the public withdraw from their own democracy because of the sheer ugliness of the attack.
In order to properly offer an explanation or rebuttal of the accusations, I would require a lot more space in the paper than I feel you are willing to provide. To that end I am offering a thorough and complete written statement that addresses each issue. The reply is available on my website, www.johngrange.net. I will provide a printed copy to all that request it, just provide me with your postal address or email address.
Gary asked you "watch carefully" my voting record and then failed to tell you how to do it. To see how I and others vote you may go to the official state website homepage; http://www.kslegislature.org. This will provide you access to links that will help you find the voting records and track all legislation. If you have any trouble just give me call at my Topeka office, 785-296-7655. If you do not have a computer, call me and I will tell you how I voted.
As a citizen legislator, I am here to serve you, I live and work in the community that I represent. I have raised my children here and most of my family still resides in the area.. Therefore; I have a pretty good idea of what you want, want you think, and what you want me to do in Topeka. Many of you call and write me on a regular basis, I welcome and appreciate those comments.
I want everyone to know that you are welcome to call, write, or drop by for a chat. As always I want to know what you think, it is an honor to serve you.
Thanks, Rep. John C. Grange
