Politicians and pundits who continue to characterize Peter Steinberg's
role in the Dane County district attorney election as a "spoiler" just
do not get it (In the Loop, 11/6/98). Had candidates Deirdre Garton or
Diane Nicks articulated a viewpoint opposing marijuana prohibition,
they would have gained the support of voters who oppose ft.

Since they were unwilling or unable to do this due to political
constraints, nearly 13,000 voters showed their agreement with the
rational policies espoused by Mr. Stein-berg.

Steinberg voters also padded the totals of Tammy Baldwin, Russ
Feingold, Ed Garvey, Mark Pocan and other progressive candidates. The
issue that brought them to the polls brought their votes to these
other candidates.

This is a growing constituency that discovered its political power in
the recent elections. With an organization now in place, active
political opposition to marijuana prohibition in Dane County will continue.

Steinberg is to be commended for having the courage to speak out about
prohibition's harmful effects. More candidates need to understand they
have more to gain by defending personal liberty than by hastening its
demise.

Gary Storck