LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: A LIBERAL AGENDA IN CONSERVATIVE CLOTHES

To the Editor

Now that Richard Nixon has died, the thrust of the various public comments was to be expected. His various capabilities and strong points are being urgently emphasized in order to maintain a gracious attitude toward a person whom the American electorate judged, several times, to be worthy of the highest office in the land. Even though he eventually disgraced the presidency, strenuous efforts are being made to come up with a "plus" verdict on his contribution to our society. Yet he is depicted as an enigma. The stream of his life is viewed as a contradiction.

For myself, I never met the man. However, from the very beginning of my involvement in the Republican party, his gaining predominance of the party apparatus was increasingly evident. Had he not "blown it" by letting his own insecurity consume him, the present accolades given him would be coming forth without reservation. His understanding of human nature enabled him to develop successfully the process of functioning as a liberal while traveling in the "sheep's clothing" of a "conservative".....even though he hardly placed emphasis on the liberal/conservative dichotomy. Many who came after him have used the model effectively.

Therein is probably the greatest legacy he has left our society.....continuing to benefit from the liberal agenda while wanting so desperately to be known as conservative.

GIL DEGENHARDT

Cape Girardeau