Letter: Supports Ragan, urges end to negative campaigning

To the Editor:

Never did I ever think I would be writing a letter to be published in a newspaper. However, I cannot sit idly by while my husband, Rep. John Ragan, is portrayed as anything but an honorable servant of his fellowmen.

We have been married for 43 years. He is the father of two wonderful children, and the grandfather of a precious little girl. He has supported our children in everything they ever wanted to do, even as he served on foreign shores to protect their freedoms and the freedoms of all our citizens.

He taught them through example the values of service beyond self. Furthermore, he demonstrated with action what it means to serve our fellow countrymen with honor, integrity, and honesty. He also taught them to revere our Heavenly Father and live each day for His glory.

John is also an avid supporter of the Project Hero and Wounded Warrior efforts. These young men and women were in Oak Ridge last summer learning to protect our children from cyber predators. John made sure these brave soldiers received the respect and gratitude they so deserve.

To say that John does not want to protect our children is ludicrous. Let’s stop the negative campaigning and concentrate on the issues at hand. This country is in too much trouble today to spend time tearing down anyone’s character in hopes of winning an election.

I write these words not only for John, but also for anyone in a campaign who is being attacked in the press without a good reason. This foolishly destructive activity is a waste of time and certainly is not particularly pleasing to anyone.

While more could be said, I will stop here. It is good to remember Ronald Reagan’s caution: “Speak no ill of a fellow Republican.”

Liz Ragan

Oak Ridge