First comes reform, then respect

I am pleased to see the front-page article ``Capitol Lawmakers Slouch Reluctantly Toward Campaign Finance Reform,'' April 14.

It strikes me that James Brady, chairman of the Louisiana Democratic Party, is just coming to realize a common belief: After recalling that during a movie he recently saw, the statement ``all politicians are crooks'' sparked enthusiastic applause, he says ``It's sad that we've come to that point.''

What is sad is the failure of our elected officials to pass comprehensive campaign finance reform. When the House and Senate come out of conference, the bill should end money from political-action committees, soft money, and bundling, and include spending limits, public financing, strong enforcement, and full lobby and gift disclosure. Larry G. Kelly, Niantic, Conn.

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