CANDIDATE ASKED HARD QUESTION

I heard that Gov. George W. Bush felt the American people were "sick and
tired" of hearing inquiries about the personal lives of public figures.

Furthermore, in his Aug. 29 Outlook article, "Gutter-journalism assault on
Bush is just appalling," Norman C. Miller stated, "It is unethical to drag
into the public arena questions about possible felony misconduct without a
shred of evidence to support them."

I am not sick and tired of hearing about these things, and, as a matter of
fact, I would press inquiries into the potentially criminal background of
any candidate for public office.

During the Monica Lewinsky/Bill Clinton scandal, I recall, political
commentators stated their opinions that the American people did not weigh
fully President Clinton's personal background prior to electing him to office.

I have taken that criticism to heart, and this election year I plan on
investigating each candidate prior to casting my vote.

I disagree with Miller's opinion that it is unethical for the press to
pursue leads that may indicate a prior criminal history of any candidate.

I challenge the Chronicle not to engage in speculation, but to ask
candidate Bush a simple question: Has he ever committed a felony and, if
so, what were the circumstances?

Charlene Lynn, Houston