I’m writing in response to the column about young Republicans on campus. I would just like to make a few points about the Republican Party and its members, which Ryan Weltzer brought up (“Writer puzzled by political views of peers,” SN 5/30). I have been a Republican for my whole life, which is undoubtedly influenced by my parents. Like Weltzer, I have come to form my own opinions during the years, which do not necessarily agree with my parents’ views. First and foremost, Weltzer claims Republicans don’t care about others. I think President Bush has done something for our country that no Democrat would or could ever do: tax relief. Millions of Americans across the country will be receiving refund checks in the mail - that’s money in your parents’ pockets. Bush is also planning to open oil-drilling wells in Alaska, as Weltzer pointed out. After the recent price-gouging that has taken over our country, particularly in Michigan, in the gasoline industry, Bush has begun to bring our country even more relief. What else could we ask for but lower gas prices? It is clear Republicans care about this country and its citizens - why else would Bush send you a check in the mail? I just don’t understand how Weltzer can be so thick-headed and ignorant. It seems as though he hasn’t even talked with a true, strong-minded, young Republican. May I suggest, Mr. Weltzer, you attend an MSU Young Republicans meeting sometime, and see what we’re really about.

Chris Stokes
supply chain management sophomore