LETTERS: KINDER'S COLUMN A PARTISAN ATTACK

To the editor:

I would like to take this opportunity to comment on state Sen. Peter Kinder's column, "Joe Heckemeyer delivers a second low blow to Mary Kasten," that was published April 9. Kinder's blatant attack upon the character and legislative prowess of state Rep. Joe Heckemeyer troubled me so greatly that I feel the need to respond.

I have lived in Jackson my entire life and have read many of Kinder's commentaries, most of which have been very negative in nature, especially those concerning the public school system. But I was absolutely appalled at the downright meanness of this column. During this legislative session, I have had an opportunity to view firsthand both legislators at work, and from what I have seen, Kinder's commentary was simply unfounded.

Currently, I am a junior at Southeast Missouri State University, but this semester I received the opportunity and honor to serve as a legislative intern for state Rep. John Hickey at the Capitol in Jefferson City. While working for Hickey, I have attempted to follow the actions taken by the leaders from Southeast Missouri and legislation pertinent to the area. From what I have gleaned, Heckemeyer is one of the true fighters from our part of the state. Further, Heckemeyer has proved to me through discussions he and I have had that he is very astute to the issues that concern our area, and he is not lacking in knowledge and basic ability as Kinder suggested.

I have enormous respect for the Kinder family. His father was my pediatrician. But I cannot help but feel that my respect for Senator Kinder has lessened to some degree due to his very negative attack upon Heckemeyer. The irony to me, which was repeated by several other representatives, is that Kinder's references to Heckemeyer as a "certified lightweight" and that Heckemeyer indulges in cheap, partisan attacks more accurately describes Kinder himself. Certainly it is apparent this column was written for the sole purpose of making a cheap, partisan attack upon Heckemeyer.

From my experience in Jefferson City, I have learned a great deal about the political process. I have also gained insight into the legislative abilities of the leaders from Southeast Missouri. From what I have seen, Heckemeyer is an outstanding leader who is highly attuned to the issues that concern all of us. Therefore, Cape Girardeau County should than the citizens of Scott County for electing a very astute leader in Heckemeyer.

MATTHEW EDWARDS

Jefferson City