SENIOR: Not a disadvantage

Jack Riggs wrote an “endorsement letter” for his son last week. The letter was published on May 12 by the Coeur d’Alene Press. In the letter Mr. Riggs said of his son, “He is not too young, but unlike his opponent (Don Cheatham), he is not a twice retired senior citizen …” Mr. Riggs is undisputedly a political journeyman having held office in the past, etc. However, his statement was not only mean spirited, it was offensive.

Considering his political background, Mr. Riggs of all people should have considered who would be reading his offensive comment about senior citizens when contrasted with his son’s youth. How could he not be aware that the letter would be read by Republicans who disagree and rightly feel that people of age are capable of governing? Heck, a lot of those readers, Republican or otherwise, are probably senior citizens too. Remember Frank Henderson? Regardless of your political leanings, everyone agrees that Frank was a perfect example of how age and experience are not a shortcoming for office holders. To the contrary, age and experience are strengths; Frank was sharp as a tack into his 90s.

It’s ironic that Mr. Riggs, born in 1954, actually espouses this position. By Mr. Riggs’ way of thinking, readers should dismiss his opinions since he is of a certain age too. I don’t agree with that. Readers should dismiss Mr. Riggs’ position because it is wrong. Hopefully, his son does too.

DOUG OKUNIEWICZ

Post Falls