To Kevin Fomalont ("Republican gloating doesn't help country" Fri., Nov. 12) and others who found Matt Valkovic's column ("Negativity will not help Democratic party or U.S." Thurs., Nov. 11) to be "hateful," here's a little perspective. The savage beating death of Matthew Shepard in 1998 was an act of hate.

The dragging death of James Byrd in 1999 was an act of hate. Suggesting that people "educate themselves to understand the nature of the Red State voter" was not an act of hate.

When will you realize that a malicious accusation is not an acceptable substitute for civil debate? Is your argument so weak that you must resort to such shameful tactics?

I am truly offended, and I expect an apology for marginalizing the real victims of hate.