The critical issue in the coming national election is extending well beyond the two controversial party standard-bearers for the Presidency. We must question the character and commitment of members of both supporting casts who fail to speak out independently about atrocities being committed by unvetted illegal immigrants from societies having little or no respect for women or children. Is there a shortage of independent, common-sense thinkers in both major parties? I’m disgusted with tacit acceptance of savage human-rights violations of preteen girls that cause me to think of execution. Whether it’s casual acceptance of unconditional abortion under the simplistic mantra of a “woman’s right to choose” (she shouldn’t need nine months to do so) or cavalier “it’s not in my neighborhood” forced rape of unsuspecting victims, there need to be consequences appropriate to the crime. Rapidly spreading prosecutorial and judicial disrespect for established law is not the mark of a great and advancing society. These circumstances point to the need not only for appropriate Presidential political leadership, but for closer state-level attention to the folks seeking positions in Congress. America needs principled representation at all levels if we are to remain the human rights standard for an increasingly troubled world. All forms of respect stem from the rule of law. Phil Osifer