LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: POLITICAL CAMPAIGNS: TAXPAYERS FOOT BILL

To the editor:

Now comes a taxpayer-funded political campaign issue that is expected to be on the statewide ballot in November. Opposing interests take the position that taxpayers shouldn't bear the burden of funding political campaigns. Actually, there is no ideal way to fund political campaigns. Whether by government or private donations, money ultimately comes out of the taxpayers' pockets. Arguments are pro and con for either pursuit.

When one buys a commodity at the store or spends money for virtually any product or service, there is a lobbyist or a political contribution at the end of the line. So whether our pockets are picked unbeknownst to us by various and special interests or consciously by the hand of government, don't moan or groan. We'll be paying the bill either way.

GILBERT DEGENHARDT

Cape Girardeau, Mo.