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To the Editor:

Something inside keeps telling me to write this. Character and values should matter.

Growing up, family, friends, teachers, and church taught me that we live in a world of diversity and should celebrate and honor it; that honesty, kindness to others and creatures, empathy before judgment, tolerance, and civility give integrity and earn respect. Values I cherish. Later as a mom and teacher, a priority in raising and educating children was to share this.

I don’t believe that ‘the end justifies the means’ just to be right, win or profit. It’s not OK to lie, cheat, reject responsibility or apologize, use demeaning nicknames, or retaliate — then pat yourself on the back for being so superior. I cannot and will not justify or excuse any of our country’s leaders who, by their questionable behavior and example, clearly do believe that the end justifies the means.

We each have our own beliefs. Mine lead me to consider a person’s actions and treatment of others, as well as what they say, when choosing a leader. I do this by watching/reading a variety of news sources and fact-checking.

Besides supporting more issues and possible solutions on one side over the other, character has become a significant factor in my deciding who I want in the Oval Office. Some good things have come from the current administration, but I want to respect and trust our country’s leaders again, so I will vote for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Does character matter to you?

Barbara Herrala

Zuni