Voters can tell the difference

To the editor:

I wanted to comment on the editorial cartoon you printed on March 21 where a schoolteacher's chalkboard, which lists "Explain Voter Apathy in America," ends with "Nothing Changes."

While I get the humor, I find the cartoon irresponsible.

Let's remember that in 2000 many voted for George W. Bush, or didn't vote at all, instead of voting for Al Gore.

In 2004, many voted for Bush, or didn't vote, instead of voting for John Kerry. Many in Missouri also voted for Matt Blunt instead of Claire McCaskill for governor, giving him the benefit of the doubt.

Now, after all these horrific years of Republican rule, does anyone at this point really think there's no difference between the Republicans and the Democrats?

Both the presidential and gubernatorial races this year figure to be close, so your vote will make a difference. It will make even more of a difference for you if you vote for the Democratic candidates. The Democrats certainly aren't perfect, but they're light years better than Republicans.

JOHN HELLER, Columbia, Mo.