Jacob Gershman’s column is perfect press for Sheldon Silver: it promotes a ridiculous conspiracy theory about Luke Henry’s candidacy while ignoring Mr. Silver’s disregard for his constituents and his failure of leadership [Oped, “Stalking Horse on the Loose?” June 16, 2008].

While the bulk of the column is devoted to rumor and baseless speculation, the article also is unclear about Mr. Henry’s background.

Luke Henry decided to run for office well before learning of Paul Newell’s candidacy, not at the same time or after Mr. Newell began his campaign, as Mr. Gershman insinuates.

Moreover, Luke was born in New York City, lived in Westchester as a child, and has lived downtown since 1995, after attending college at SUNY Albany.

We are confident that the voters will be clear in their choice as to who is the best candidate to fight for progressive issues and really act on the promise of reform in Albany.

Indeed, we are excited that for the first time in many years, the constituents of the 64th Assembly District will have a choice.

Who is the right person for the job will be demonstrated not only by what the candidates say, but how they run their respective campaigns.

KATE TOMASSI
Luke Henry for Assembly
New York, N.Y.

‘Legalize Every Drug’

The crime-fostering economics of drug prohibition are so well established that the Congressional Joint Economic Committee recently held hearings on the topic [Oped, “Legalize Every Drug,” June 18, 2008].

The choice is simple: Do we leave the ethics of drug sales in the hands of amoral dealers? Do we continue an annual criminal subsidy of $320 billion, providing the Taliban 70% of their funding?

Or do we buy off the addicts into prescription programs that would deprive gangsters and terrorists alike their cash flow?

Any drug we leave prohibited becomes a subsidy for gangsters who thrive on enticing children into addiction and corruption.

PAT ROGERS
Allentown, Pa.

‘McCain and the Computer’

“McCain and the Computer” says it all [Editorial, June 17, 2008].

One should add to the list that we can thank computers, the Internet, and bloggers for the inability of today’s students to read and write correct English.

J.L. STARR
New York City Board of Education Emeritus
New York, N.Y.