Recently I have read quite a number of Letters to the Editor about politics. These letters generally provoke at least one other letter in response. What is alarming is that each letter seems to contradict the previous one on basic facts that aren’t difficult to fact check. It is healthy to argue in an intellectual manner, but the arguments “everything you said was incorrect” and “your way of thinking is wrong because I don’t agree with it” are neither intellectual nor pleasant for anyone involved.

Here’s a tip: If you are going to write a political letter, find several impartial sources to back up your knowledge of the events. Both political parties alter the truth to make themselves sound better and their respective news outlets play into this game as well. To avoid getting “played” by either party, try reading articles from both viewpoints or find an unbiased source, such as the Associated Press. The Associated Press is an unbiased news source, at least one of the most unbiased sources currently available.

Another tip: try to avoid using blanket statements or name calling. Calling all large media sources biased without noting sources that make an effort to remain unbiased is an example of a blanket statement that is false. Calling Tedra Cobb “Taxin Tedra Fraud” is crossing a line (I’m looking at you, Mr. Love). It is insulting a hard working mother who is advocating for quality healthcare in a region that needs it desperately. It does not matter if you disagree with her on policies, she is a respectable woman and should be treated as such.

Truth is paramount to the survival of our democracy. Treat it with respect or you may find yourself living under a totalitarian regime.

Mark Severtson

Parishville