THE PUBLIC MIND: CITIZENS NOT WASTING VOTES IF THEY CAST THEIR BALLOTS FOR PEROT

Dear Editor:

As a child, I was brought up to believe that I could make a difference in this country. My parents and teachers instilled in me an unwavering faith that this country belonged to the people, for the people, and by the people. I took pride in believing that the USA was the best country in the world, and I was certain that because I was an American, I could accomplish anything. Now that I am older, a harsh reality has hit. I can feel the economy's devastating effects each day, and my future is uncertain because I cannot be assured of a strong economy, a good job market, and a reliable income when I am older.

It is evident to me that America needs rebirth. I cannot ignore the facts that proclaim the loss that I will suffer throughout my lifetime should the United States continue to abuse itself. It was startling to me when a citizen announced in the second Presidential Debate that I would not be returned a cent of the Social Security I have paid should our economy continue as it has. I am scared about my future, and that's why I need a leader who understands people not politics.

Why should you vote for Ross Perot?

Ross Perot is not the perfect politician. He does not debate like he's from Harvard, nor does he look like Jim Brady. He is not Republican or Democrat and will not have the benefit of those who will blindly vote a straight party ticket. He won't tell you he's for everything and everybody, because he's not. And most importantly, he won't make you unsubstantial promises that only sound good. Ross Perot doesn't believe in politics. He is the only candidate who believes in democracy where the government works for the people.

You should vote for Ross Perot because he is the only candidate who has the knowledge, experience, and the special capabilities it will take to save our country from financially going under. Our country's economy is a serious problem. As nice of a person as President Bush may be, we cannot afford to risk the future of our nation and its young people on four more years of the same political gridlock. Whether it's his fault or not, he has proven that he cannot get what needs to be done done.

Governor Clinton looks very beautiful on camera (God knows the media loves him), but isn't Clinton a little too slick? Is it realistic to believe that he can please everyone? And, as nice as all of his ideas and new programs sound, no one knows where the money is coming from. He may be talking change, but it's change that won't take place unless we come up with the money to fund it. Perot is not a billionaire because his parents were billionaires. He is successful because he knows how to solve problems and get things done. Be honest with yourself. This country's deficit is your deficit. I would not hesitate to invest money with Billionaire Ross Perot.

As I have been campaigning for Perot, I have talked to several people who have expressed their admiration for Perot, but have concerns. Usually, these people are just not well-informed. I have noticed that most people rely on the television media. While it is fortunate that the media plays an instrumental part in a presidential race, we must realize that sometimes television is biased and vague. The best way to learn of a candidate's specific goals is to go to that candidate's local campaign headquarters and acquire information. Consequently, the more people learn about Perot, the more faith they have that he can accomplish for our country what he promises.

Why shouldn't you be concerned about your vote for Perot?

You are not wasting your vote unless you don't vote your conscience. I believe there is tremendous support for Perot, regardless of what the polls say.

Perot's strengths do not lie in the economy alone. If there is ever to be an "Education President," it will be Ross Perot. Perot has played a significant role in education in his personal life. He has funded his own money to build a school and has yearned for better education prior to his calling to be a presidential candidate. He has recognized the fact that we spend more money on education than most countries in the world, but we lag behind these countries with our education system. He realizes promising you he'll spend more money will not better our education system. Instead, he promises to use the money we're spending now to make your education "first-rate."

Perot has new and ingenious ideas for ridding illegal drugs, providing affordable health care, developing an efficient energy policy, and reforming this country's government. If you are concerned about Perot's qualifications to be our nation's president, read his plan. I guarantee you will find his scope for change to include more than just our national debt.

Kristy Farrow

Cape Girardeau