John Fritze's article, "Bartlett fumbles finance reports," (June 25) serves to point out once again the problems arising with politicians taking campaign contributions. There is only one answer to such a fiasco.
Politicians should do what I do as a teacher of political science. In my last two campaigns, for governor in and for U.S. Senate, I made a commitment to refuse any campaign contributions whatsoever. On a budget by design of $450 for the 2010 campaign and $280 for the 2012 campaign, my vote total was 22,828 votes. Per dollar, I received more votes than any other candidate.
Although I did not get nominated, in effect, I was the real winner because I kept my word and I ran on a platform of ethics rather than money, power and fame.
Until we get politicians who are willing to let ethics be their guiding force in serving the public we will not make any real progress in solving our problems.
Ralph Jaffe, Pikesville
The writer was a candidate in the Democratic primaries for governor in 2010 and for U.S. senator this year.
