Dear Editor:
I am increasingly troubled this campaign season by the tactics political candidates have used, particularly against conservative candidates. As a voter in the 51st House District, I received numerous mailers from Democrat Reed Heddleston claiming that our Delegate, Rich Anderson, wants to take away women’s birth control and that women who have miscarried should be investigated. As an informed voter, I asked Delegate Anderson directly about this.
I discovered not only that these political attacks are complete lies but also that Delegate Anderson sent a bi-partisan letter last year to Secretary of HHS, Kathleen Sebelius, stating that “contraception is a personal matter–the government shouldn’t be in the business of banning it,” which sounds surprisingly similar to Mr. Heddleston’s view on the issue, per his campaign website. Delegate Anderson’s actions are opposite of his opponent’s claims to voters.
These are outright lies created no doubt to inspire fear in voters about a conservative candidate. In recent elections, Americans have witnessed the same tactic in Washington: vilify conservatives to portray them as aloof extremists who don’t care about women’s health. This classless tactic is unfair to Delegate Anderson and angering and insulting to his supporters, especially those of us who are educated, concerned women vitally interested in health care for ourselves and our families.
Mr. Heddleston, shame on you for joining the ranks of Washington politicians who lie to scare people into voting. This behavior polarizes Americans by creating a false stereotype about conservative candidates and voters. Do not slander Delegate Anderson, and by extension his supporters, for having logical, conservative ideals in your attempt to win an election.
I hope everyone will join me at the polls on November 5th to reject Reed Heddleston’s lies and ugly campaign tactics and to support our delegate, Rich Anderson.
Kristina Luckey
Lake Ridge
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Step back in time and experience history firsthand at Ben Lomond Historic Site in Manassas, VA. Built in 1832, this remarkable home once served as a Confederate field hospital during the Battle of First Manassas. Today, visitors can explore its preserved rooms, complete with Civil War-era graffiti left by Union soldiers, as well as the original slave quarters, smokehouse, and dairy that tell the story of the people who lived and worked here.
Stroll Through History – Don’t miss the fragrant Rose Garden, featuring one of the largest collections of antique roses in the region.
Engaging Tours – Open Friday-Monday, 10 AM-4 PM, with guided tours at 11 AM and 2 PM. Admission: $5 per person, free for children under six.
Accessible Experiences – Enjoy 360° Virtual Tour tablets and foreign language guides in French, Italian, German, Chinese, and Spanish—available at no extra cost!
Volunteer With Us! – Love Civil War history or gardening? Join our team and help preserve this incredible piece of Prince William County’s past.
Visit us at 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas, VA 20109
(703) 367-7872 | ? [email protected]
Plan your visit today and experience history like never before!
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Hugo loves nothing more than taking leisurely strolls on nature trails, often checking in with his walking buddy to make sure you’re right there with him. His previous owner shared that he gets along well with children and other dogs, though he can be a little nervous around new people. Because of this, Hugo would do best in a quiet home with a patient owner who can help him build his confidence.
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