Thank you for your May 20 editorial, “Failed political attacks.” It’s unfortunate that so many candidates feel compelled to resort to smear tactics and false accusations to further their political cause. It’s an unnecessary ploy, because if they really believe they have something positive to offer their constituency, they should present their views and campaign on their strengths, rather than on some contrived weakness of their opponent. In the end, this only reflects poorly on the attacker.

The voters want, and deserve, a campaign that relies on forthright discussions of issues that are important to us. Let’s hope that Chellie Pingree understands this, and soon.

Diane Genthner

Hampden