Whatever happened to positive election campaign ads? Whatever happened to telling the truth and playing fair? In the old days, campaigns were careful not to mention the opponents name, so as not to add to his name recognition. Back then, candidates talked about their own accomplishments and qualifications.

Today, Gov. Martin O'Malley's ads are all about former Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr., and Mr. Ehrlich's ads are all about Mr. O'Malley. Rep. Frank Kratovil's ads are all about state Sen. Andy Harris, and Mr. Harris's ads are all about Mr. Kratovil. And I am sure this is true all across the country.

Anyone visiting our country from overseas would think that all our elected officials and aspiring office holders are all dishonest and incompetent, and it makes the voters not want to vote for either candidate. No wonder the country is in such trouble.

Carol Strahlman, Westminster