TO THE EDITOR:

A lifelong Democrat, I’ve lived in this area for 25 years, and gotten my share of ridicule.  These last four years, however, some local citizens and elected officials have been vocal in their sheer hatred of Democrats, and misinformation is  everywhere.  Speaking only for myself, I’d like to set the record straight.

I am not “pro-abortion.”  I don’t know anyone who wants there to be more abortions.  I also believe that women have the absolute right to privacy in their medical decisions.

I support and appreciate the police.  However, African Americans in this country  have very different experiences than mine.  We need to make sure that every citizen gets equal justice by addressing inequities in education and income, or civil unrest will continue.

I am a patriot.  I enlisted in the USAF and MN Army National Guard because I loved America’s promise to treat our citizens equally. Wrapping yourself in the flag is the cheapest form of patriotism, as far as I’m concerned.

I am a Christian.  I don’t believe that makes me somehow better than people who practice other religions, or no religion at all. Freedom of religion and freedom FROM religion are part of our founding principles.

I encourage everyone to become an informed voter, using isidewith.com to find the candidates who most closely match their beliefs.  Young people, please vote based on your own knowledge and beliefs.  Don’t let ANYONE hijack your vote. 

Nancy Lorentz

Clear Lake, MN