Letter to the Editor: Reply to Helen Smith's editorial

To the Editor,

As I read through Miss Helen Smith’s letter in the paper over the weekend, I couldn’t help but be shocked by her lack of knowledge. Had she diligently read your own newspaper, she would know that Rep. Mike Coffman is very much tied in to women’s health issues. On August 20th, 2012, Kurtis Lee wrote an article discussing Coffman’s attempts to redefine rape. Quote, “in the language initially proposed by the act, rape becomes “forcible rape.”” Later in the article Lee addresses Coffman’s personal beliefs on the subject, “Coffman is on record as also being against abortions, even in cases of rape and incest.” He has also voted against Children’s Insurance, Fair Pay Acts, and Employment Discrimination Law Amendments.

In regards to crass remarks made against Planned Parenthood, it is an organization dedicated to more than just ‘cancer causing abortions’. Their number one focus is on education, and preventing unwanted pregnancies. (According to their website, 71% of clients “receive services to prevent unintended pregnancy” while only 3% utilize abortion services) They also provide screenings for cancer and STD’s. Another of their goals is for healthy families, this means they provide education for soon to be moms and dads as well.

As far as the ad attacking Michael Bennet, you are correct, it does show his true colors. It shows that he is sensitive to his electorate and their needs, that he cares about equal rights for all Coloradan citizens, that he hopes to work toward a better healthcare system for all Americans so that when you are sick, you do not need to check your bank account before going to see a doctor. The ad also showed that he cares about the beautiful outdoors that Coloradans boast about to the rest of the country. What it failed to note however, was that the NRA actually gave Bennet a C+ rating in 2010, much better than the many F’s handed out that year.

Miss Smith, I agree that the country could use more informed citizens, but I fear to ask where you gather your information.

Joe Reichenbach

Colorado Springs, Colorado