[Mb-civic] Letter

[Ian]

A letter sent to the Times:

----- Original Message ----- 
From: Ian 
To: Letters at nytimes.com 
Sent: Tuesday, August 31, 2004 11:49 AM
Subject: Letter


You state that, "There is only the finest of lines between involving a disaster in which all...Americans...felt such a devastating stake, and exploiting it for partisan advantage" ("First Night, Single Theme For Double Term: Sept. 11," Aug. 31).  Not only has the Republican Party crossed that line, but they lied about their intentions in this regard.

When New York City was chosen as the site for the convention, then Republican National Committee Chairman Mark C. Racicot stated that it was chosen because of the "package" that New York had to offer re venue, lodging, transportation, restaurants, theater, culture, etc.  When asked about the connection to the attacks of 9/11, he indicated that any references would be "discreet" and that it would not be used as a partisan tool.  So much for honesty.

What is most outrageous - and ultimately sad - is that former Mayor Rudy Giuliani has accepted the role of "poster boy" and "official spokesperson" in this regard.  Even those of us who disliked Mr. Giuliani for the first seven of his eight years as mayor gained a new-found respect for him in light of his handling of the 9/11 attacks.  However, in betraying his oft-stated belief that the events of 9/11 were "above politics," he has totally squandered that respect.

Indeed, if there is any single person in the world who should know better than to exploit 9/11, it is Mr. Giuliani.  Shame on the Republican Party, and double shame on him.

Rev. Ian Alterman
New York City
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