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Letter: Vigorous debate vital to a free republic

Editor, Gazette-Journal:

I disagree strongly with your editorial, "Speaking the truth," about the tragedy in Arizona. You single out for praise Tucson Sheriff Clarence W. Dupnik. Here is his statement: "I think it is time as a country we need to do a little soul searching because I think that the vitriolic rhetoric that we hear day in and day out from the people in the radio business and some people in the TV business … It may be free speech, but it does not come without consequences."

First, sheriff, it is free speech. Second, the tragedy had nothing to do with radio, TV or any opinion on any side of the political spectrum. This sad event should not be seen as an opportunity to express your political beliefs. The sheriff should have said something like this: "We are investigating thoroughly and as information becomes available, we will issue updates. Our aim is not only to bring the perpetrator or perpetrators to justice, but to prevent such trage...

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