New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul jumped into the contentious vaccination debate this week. (Getty and Associated Press file photos)
Re: “Chris Christie and Rand Paul fuel vaccine ignorance,” Feb. 4 editorial.
Note to politicians of all stripes: It is hard to tell someone something they don’t want to hear. But that is a test of your courage as a public servant and guardian of the public well-being. So when a loud, passionate minority insists against all reasonable evidence that measles vaccinations are dangerous, or genetically modified food has caused numerous allergic reactions or humankind has no role in global warming, please do your job. Look them in the eye, with facts in hand, and firmly disagree. Pandering to them or even half-validating their positions can have highly negative consequences for society as a whole.
Now, I am not in the race for president, and it is easy for me give you advice from the sidelines. But just let me ask: Is your campaign motivated more by lust for the office or care for your fellow citizens?
T. John Hughes,Denver
This letter was published in the Feb. 6 edition.I believe that parents should have the right to decide whether or not their children receive vaccinations. If, however, they decide against it, then they should not be eligible to enroll their children in public schools. Let them find a private school that will accept them.
Mark Lieberman,Littleton
This letter was published in the Feb. 6 edition.
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