Pubdate: Sun, 27 Nov 2005
Source: Asbury Park Press (NJ)
Copyright: 2005 Asbury Park Press
Contact:  http://www.app.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/26
Author: Dolores Geiger
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

KEEP PROFANITY OFF MAILINGS

Before voting this year, I was a bit undecided on my choice for 
governor and opted to read the 10 candidates' statements on the back 
of my sample ballot. After perusing seven of the statements, I came 
across Edward Forchion's, under the Legalize Marijuana Party.

Being a firm believer in freedom of speech no matter what the 
opinion, I decided to read his statement. The first sentence reads, 
"The reason I'm running for governor isn't because I think I will 
win, but for the opportunity running gives me (and anyone who votes 
for me) to give the "finger' statewide to our Demo-publican Party 
politicians who wage their lie-based "War on us.' "

Not only was I shocked by Forchion's use of profanity, but more 
importantly I was appalled that state election officials allowed it 
to be written on a sample ballot. It's a shame Forchion didn't use 
more appropriate, thought-provoking expressions, which may have had a 
greater impact. There was no need to invoke profanity.

I have been told by several people that this filth falls under 
freedom of speech. Freedom of speech, absolutely. Profanity, no.

Our legislators need to develop some guidelines for election 
officials that prohibit the use of profanity on a sample ballot or 
anything else that comes from our state government.

I have written my state senator. Let's be the example for other 
states to follow and put an end to such a public use of profanity.

Dolores Geiger

HOWELL
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman