KC Star Endorses Shettles for 6th District Congress

ELECTION 2006 Change needed in 6th District Sam Graves is seeking another two years in Washington from Missouri’s 6th U.S. House district, and he enjoys all the advantages of incumbency — notably an overwhelming financial advantage over political challengers. This newspaper endorsed the Republican when he first sought the congressional seat six years ago. But we are concerned that he now seems so reluctant to acknowledge serious problems facing the country. Despite the stunning level of recent violence and terror in Iraq, for example, an upbeat Graves insisted just last week that “we are making progress; things are getting better.” On the domestic front, he acknowledges that Congress must rein in excessive spending. But he offers few specific cuts, just the usual “waste, fraud and abuse.” And speaking of waste, Graves himself was among the Washington lawmakers who were reported earlier this year to be spending high amounts of tax dollars on vehicle leases. Graves, in fact, was leasing not one but two vehicles. The total cost: $1,300 a month. In short, he seems to have become too comfortable in Washington at a time when many voters want significant change there. Sara Jo Shettles, the Democratic candidate, is a logical alternative. A sharp critic of the status quo in Washington, she speaks out forcefully for reforms and smarter thinking on a long list of issues. She sounds far more concerned than Graves, for example, about deficit spending: “American families have the right to know that the rising national debt will result in more federal, state and local taxes, higher mortgage rates, credit card rates and higher fees on student loans.” Shettles wants to revise the misguided prescription drug program in Medicare to save tax dollars and hold down excessive drug prices. She rightly criticizes Congress for its failure to follow through on some critical recommendations of the Sept. 11 commission. She understands that the country must wage “a strategic and aggressive war on extremists in whatever form they present themselves.” But it must do so, she adds, while standing up for individual liberties, human rights and democracy. She also places a high priority on regulatory reform, economic growth, better border security, environmental protection and campaign finance reform. Shirley Yurkonis, the Progressive Party candidate, also expresses appropriate concern about fiscal irresponsibility, environmental degradation, human rights abuses and other problems. But she has some unrealistic proposals and calls for an immediate withdrawal from Iraq, regardless of the consequences. That would be unwise. Also on the ballot is Libertarian Erik Buck, who does not merit serious consideration. The best choice for Congress in the 6th District is Sara Jo Shettles. Go to original- http://www.kansascity.com/mld/kansascity/news/opinion/15756202.htm Sara Jo's website- http://sarajoshettlesforcongress.com