Thanks largely to low contribution limits, which limit the ability of challengers to mount effective campaigns, most incumbent congressmen easily win re-election year after year.
According to the Center for Responsive Politics, 94 percent of incumbents secured re-election in 2006. The number was even higher in 2004, when 98 percent of incumbents won.
So rather than deride citizens' organizations as a nuisance of democracy, we should be celebrating the fact that citizen voices are being heard and incumbents are being held accountable thanks to the advocacy groups.
Mike Schrimpf, Alexandria, Va.
The writer is communications director for the Center for Competitive Politics.
Wright fails test of conformity
Why are the media so antagonistic toward the Rev. Jeremiah A. Wright Jr.?
I agree with the Rev. John L. Carter and others who have suggested that "much of the [media] coverage [of Pastor Wright] relies on sound bites that lack context" ("Black preachers agree to disagree," May 1).
And because of the content of his fiery sermons, I think most of the media see him as failing the test of political and social conformity.
Conal Rose, Baltimore
Schaefer's friends right to intervene
In October 2007, I saw former Gov. William Donald Schaefer give a talk about his career at the Pikesville library. He was in good form, but it was also clear that his age was showing. He was far from the "do it now" mayor I knew from his days at City Hall in the 1970s.
Later, I read that he had had a bad fall at his home and that he had to be taken to a hospital for treatment. Now, Mr. Schaefer's placement in a retirement home has become, as a result of Laura Vozzella's columns, a point of contention ("The object of their affections," May 7).
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to know that the 86-year-old Mr. Schaefer, with his "two bum knees," who was living alone at the time of his serious accident, needs to be where he is today.
As for his friend, the "strong-willed" Lainy LeBow-Sachs, God bless her for making the decision that needed to be made.
That's what real friends are for, with or without power of attorney.
William Hughes, Baltimore
Immigrant family merits better fate
I have read all the articles about the plight of the Atta Poku family and I still don't get it ("New laws too late in loss of home," May 4).
