Of cardinal importance: If you were accused of “believing” and “adhering” to the principles of the United States Constitution and our Declaration of Independence, would there be enough evidence to “convict” you?

Included — at least — in the “principles” are small, non-infringing federal government, freedoms of speech, right to bear arms, and others, the equality of creation of all people, nondiscrimination, but acceptance of all races, creeds and/or nationalities, right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Many more exist, but if a political candidate does not believe — that is, uses lip service, but does not show demonstrable, real service — then why would anyone vote for such a person?

Albert E. Depew,

Cabot