Fiscal numbers
Candidates for governor have debated and declaimed on issues from crime to education to taxes
JOAN VENNOCHI writes that "the strategists around [Kerry Healey] are guilty of political malpractice" ("Kerry Healey's backfiring campaign ads," op-ed, Oct. 25). But should we blindly endorse Deval Patrick as a result? Though Patrick has a seemingly insurmountable lead in the polls, Healey is sound on the issues and would make a strong governor. If elected, she plans to roll back the income tax, control spending, increase consumer choice in healthcare and auto insurance, and promote business by offering targeted tax incentives. Her platform is designed to manage the state government by empowering the citizenry. In contrast, Patrick believes the state can manage its citizenry by empowering the government. His platform consists of little more than charisma and optimism.
Patrick needs to explain himself more candidly before we give him our votes. If the choice is between issues and idealism, Healey deserves another look.
ROBERT STETSON
Boston
SADLY, NONE of the candidates for governor offers any new ideas, just more of the same. Why do the people of this state continue to want government to provide the answers? Where is that pioneering spirit that prompted the Sons of Liberty? We will only continue to experience more corruption, more regulation, and more control as long as we keep voting for people whose only answer is, "Let's spend more money."
MICHAEL CARL
Lynn 
