My letter to Half In Ten

To whom it may concern,

A growing number of folks have been voicing their concern that you are in the process of disassociating yourself with former Senator John Edwards. After viewing your website this morning, I am unable to tell if these fears are justified. But I am writing you to weigh in as a precautionary measure.

Whatever one may think of Mr. Edwards' personal conduct, there is a body of work which demands and commands respect. No one (certainly since 1968) has been more vocal, energetic and resolute an advocate for the poor than John R. Edwards.

In fact, the Campaign To Change America changed this American. It is entirely due to John Edwards that I have jumped in with both feet into so many matters of social action and justice over the past year and a half. It is entirely due to John Edwards that I even know about your project.

You may find this odd, but because of my association I have come to regard John and Elizabeth as members of my extended family. I guess all families handle conflict differently, but in ours while we are free to register disappointment with a member's actions - once voiced, we move on. We don't forget what binds us together, we don't forget the joys and successes of the past...we learn and grow.

Your campaign will suffer without his strong leadership. I hope you will consider your options very carefully.

Sincerely and respectfully,

Don Wheeler
founder
Progressives, South Bend