May 31, 2004 NY TIMES LETTERS

Hastert and McCain

To the Editor:

So according to the House speaker, J. Dennis Hastert, Senator John McCain, of all people, does not know the meaning of sacrifice ("Hastert, the Reticent Speaker, Suddenly Has Plenty to Say," news article, May 24).

Given the administration's abysmal record — on all fronts, from economic policy to security to military affairs — it is not surprising that Mr. Hastert and other Congressional Republicans respond to criticism with personal attacks.

But you know they're desperate when they attack someone like Mr. McCain for daring to question the fiscal irresponsibility of this administration and its Congressional supporters.

SILVIO LEVY
Berkeley, Calif., May 24, 2004