Jonathan Carter’s new gubernatorial ad has caused quite a bit of controversy. He is being accused by many individuals and groups for ethnically slurring Italian-Americans because he ran an ad that parodies “The Sopranos.” I would be curious to know how many people who have voiced their discontent with the ad actually watch the program; furthermore, I want to know why these outraged groups have not directed their anger toward incorrect portrayals of Italian-Americans as Mafioso members in shows such as “The Sopranos.”

Although I think Carter did not use his best judgment in choosing the type of ad to attack John Baldacci’s record on casinos, I do not believe he purposely set out to be insulting. Politicians may make certain judgment errors in their zeal to get elected, but we should not let those harmless discrepancies cloud the real issues before the electorate.

Chris Flannagan

Plant, Soil and

Environmental Sciences

University of Maine

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