A shift in government

Re “Democrats Capture House,” Nov. 8

While congratulations are due Democrats for regaining some control in Congress, there is no mandate. Any appearance of hubris would be a disaster. Change is clearly needed, but Iraq is not the only issue and is not likely any road to success.

The new House leadership must plan its course carefully. Ethics and truth are key, as is representing and expanding the promise of this country. Hope springs eternal, yet faith in the new Congress will have to be earned.

KARL BECHTEL

Glendale

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The Republicans in the congressional races achieved the result of this election the old-fashioned way: They earned it. After 12 years of GOP dominance in the House, Newt Gingrich’s “Contract with America” was reduced to nothing more than an ineffectual display of the arrogance of power.

Such will be the legacy of their cheerleader in chief, George W. Bush, as well, though his, unfortunately, will be written in the blood of our soldiers.

DAVID STOUGHTON

Santa Monica

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With so many more Democrats now in the House, I would say: Hold on to your pocketbooks and wallets. But then again, we won’t need our pocketbooks or wallets while we’re living in a fallout shelter.

LORRAINE MCKINNON

Tucson

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So the new Democrats have swept Congress. Who are the new Democrats? Socially conservative and fiscally liberal. In regard to personal and economic freedom, this is the worst of all possible worlds. Now we will have Neanderthals taxing us back into the Stone Age. Am I the only one who thinks all hope is lost?

RAY SHELTON

Glendale