Leaders should never run away in face of danger

To the editor:

We all knew that Sept. 11 would somehow change the way America went about its business. But who would have thought that Trent Lott and Dennis Hastert would run away like scared little rabbits in the face of danger.

The same politicians who talk about unity and being brave and who send our boys off to war are the same politicians who are willing to let the terrorists know they are scared. At a time when it is absolutely crucial to put on the face of bravery for the sake of the nation, two Republican leaders want to run away. Why? Because they are at risk, scared and worried. Like the rest of us aren't?

These are the politicians whom America should remember at election time. This is the very lowest we can set our standards. But no matter how bad a senator or representative is, the one requirement that we must hold them to is to insist that they not run away in a time of crisis.

Doesn't it say a lot that Tom Daschle wants to stay in Washington and conduct business to show the terrorists and the rest of the world that we will not be deterred by evil? One of the most liberal senators in America has the guts to stay and fight.

The only thing worse than a liberal is a deserter. There is no room at a time like this for deserters.

CLINT E. LACY

Marble Hill, Mo.