It's our fault, you know. The chaotic and destructive government we now have is the result of our inattention. The campaigns and the debates were exercises in bullying, mudslinging, and scene-stealing. Any discussion of principles was buried by mockery and invective. We watched the show and could not believe it was serious.

In a properly functioning democratic society, which I hope ours still is, our vote is the only tool (or weapon if you prefer) with which we can influence the formation of the government which should serve us all. As responsible voters it is our duty to sort through the chaff of "information" hurled at us by the candidates, the parties and the media, and glean therefrom the kernels of truth that may lie within. That's hard work. How many voters will make that effort? How many eligible voters will even bother to vote? How many will think for themselves and not just vote the party line?

Larry White

East Lyme