Don’t Blame the Religious Right

* In his Sept. 6 letter (“Dornan and Ilk Drag Down GOP”), James R. Gallagher says “a majority of voters are sick and tired of the religious right-inspired, hate-filled, never-ending attacks on President Clinton--attacks that are driving voters from the Republican fold.”

It amazes me that the blame for criticizing the president is being placed on the religious population.

Last I heard, even Democrats, religious or not, were upset that Clinton admitted that he had misled the country and denied his actions.

Is it the religious right’s fault the president misled the country? Why is it now being presented that those of us who have strong religious convictions are the real problem here?

Attacks? I cannot name one religious leader who has attacked the president, only those who have said they are disappointed with his actions.

And furthermore, had the president been Republican and had done the same thing, the response would be identical. To cover the actions of the president by blaming the religious right is not only unfair, but ridiculous.

Statements such as those expressed by Mr. Gallagher are greatly concerning to me as the recent admissions by the president have only strengthened my support of Republicans.

Additionally, it has always amazed me that free speech is hailed so much by people such as Mr. Gallagher, unless of course to those that are in any way related to a religious group. In that case, it has to be hate-filled.

I would really be encouraged if the American population would at least stand by freedom of speech for all, and not just the groups one represents.

GINA GARZA

Orange