Ann Donnelly’s opinion piece regarding Kevin Peterson Jr. has provoked a lot of heated commentary (“Kevin Peterson Jr. didn’t have to die,” The Columbian, Jan 3). In the 2008 primary, I couldn’t decide between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. Both were highly intelligent, well-spoken and presidential. I was leaning toward Clinton.
In the final debate, when asked about government’s role in solving the ills of our society, both candidates spoke of government’s obligation to address institutional racism, societal prejudice and economic inequality. Only Obama stressed the importance of personal responsibility when faced with these challenges. I voted for Obama.