The Plain Dealer’s Sept. 22 endorsement of Thomas F. Patton for the Ohio Senate from District 24 fails to provide an adequate comparison of Patton and his opponent, Sue Durichko. Despite noting that Durichko “is a well-qualified candidate with a clear focus on important health care issues,” the editorial board tells us that Patton is better-qualified because “he has always trod a moderate road” and is “well-connected in Columbus.”
Completely ignored are Patton’s questionable use of campaign funds to reimburse personal expenses and his consistent support for bills restricting access to abortion. Patton voted for the heartbeat bill that outlawed abortion after six weeks of pregnancy, a bill roundly rejected by Ohioans when they approved the reproductive-rights amendment last year. Patton also tried to bypass local and regional planning authorities to build an ill-conceived interchange on Interstate 71 in Brunswick that was condemned by just about everyone living in that community.
He is clearly out of touch with his constituents. Sue Durichko is well-respected for her service in local government and, as a nurse, understands our health-care needs, especially reproductive health care needs. She is by far the superior candidate for the Ohio Senate.
Michael N. Melampy,
Berea
