Re: “Gluesenkamp Perez spars with Democrats over handpicked successor” (Nov. 18, Nation):
I wish someone would explain to me the reasons for universal condemnation by congressional Democrats of U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez ’s procedural challenge to the anti-democratic actions of retiring Illinois Congressperson Chuy Garcia. What Garcia did, ensuring that the timing of his retirement announcement resulted in his chief of staff being the only candidate for the seat, was an obnoxious gaming of the system. It deprives voters in his district any meaningful choice or public debate on issues. Not only was Glusenkamp Perez the only Democrat to call out this bad, anti-democratic behavior, she was universally condemned for it by members of her party. This is a bad look for Democrats.
Washington is lucky to have MGP as a conscientious representative in a usually red district. Any criticism of her from coming from the left is sorely misplaced.
John Zilavy, Seattle
