Happy New Year to all. My simple request in a Dec. 5 Finger Lakes Times Letter to the Editor (“FLT could use a regular conservative columnist”) for a regular conservative writer has prompted five people to respond in two weeks. I wonder if I poked the liberal bear or pushed over the progressive beehive.

I choose to respond to Pete Mitchell first. It is OK to list my name, Pete; you will not hurt my feelings. As you outlined, not spending what you don’t have, saving for a rainy day, paying your bills, working hard and respecting others are not conservative or progressive political views. They are common sense. Again, having access to a decent education and decent health care are not political categories.

You have made quite clear over the years your views on abortion, firearms, immigration, and how ignorant you believe most people are. You certainly........

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