Letters to the Editor

Citizens of the 49th have been doing a great job with their support, they are writing letters to the editor to express their feelings. We would like to post a few letters here to let you know what people are thinking.

October 26, 2008
Dear Editor,
I am writing to express my support for re-electing Phil Garthwaite to the 49th Assembly. Phil has worked hard during his first term in office as our “voice for Southwest Wisconsin”, serving on the Transportation Committee, Agriculture Committee, and the Rural Affairs & Rural Economic Development Committee. He has fought to give Wisconsin citizens affordable access to healthcare, appropriate funding for their public schools, safer roads, and fair policies for farms and small businesses. As both my father and father-in-law were veterans of WWII, I appreciate the tremendous support Phil Garthwaite shows for all our veterans.

Unfortunately, a Michigan based special interest group, All Children Matter, has launched a vicious attack on Wisconsin politicians, including Phil Garthwaite, by buying radio time and mailing flyers that are filled with lies and deception. Because of their unethical tactics, this group has already been levied a $5.2 million fine by the bipartisan Ohio Elections Commission and is currently under investigation in Wisconsin.

It is disappointing that rather than distance himself from these types of unethical tactics, Travis Tranel chose to do the same in his campaign flyers. So much for the “positive campaign” he told voters he wanted following the primary election. The last two flyers his campaign sent to my mailbox only slammed Phil Garthwaite and did not say anything about his own issues. Although no statement printed on those flyers said anything about Travis Tranel, they spoke volumes to me. If he was that easily influenced by special interest groups, what would he be like in Madison? Would he be unable to speak his own mind then, too?

Phil Garthwaite ran a positive campaign in 2006 and has continued to do so in 2008. While he has been in Madison working on the issues he promised to make a priority in his 2006 election bid, Phil has not forgotten the people he represents. He was there helping the Village of Bagley clean up after the flood. He was there speaking at the dedication of the Mt. Hope Veterans Memorial. He was there announcing or auctioneering at numerous events and fundraisers throughout the 49th Assembly district. Please join me in supporting a man who is true to his word and true to his roots. Vote for Phil Garthwaite on November 4th!

Sincerely,
Carol Harris
Bagley, WI