As the wife of someone in public life, I have learned, firsthand, that the media can say what they want about those in public office whether or not what is being said is fair or in good taste. It is generally considered that this “goes with the territory,” and I have learned to prayerfully accept it.

When a good man has served this state honorably, however, as Carroll Campbell has, isn’t it time for the media to show respect in this latest chapter of his life? Mark and I try to teach our sons all of the time that it does not matter if you agree with a certain political ideal or philosophy put forth by another, but how you treat those others defines your character.

For Brad Warthen in his April 17 column to describe Carroll Campbell — a good man currently unable to defend himself — as having been “too hotheaded and thin-skinned” I think speaks volumes about the character of The State.

JENNY SANFORD

Columbia

• No regard shown for welfare of women

In a stunning pair of votes on Monday, the S.C. House Judiciary Committee passed a bill which would make cockfighting a felony but tabled a bill on domestic violence. Currently, domestic violence is a misdemeanor, even if a person has a second or third offense.

Charleston Rep. John Graham Altman didn’t see the need to pass this unnecessary bill because “There ought not to be a second offense. The woman ought to not be around the man.” However, banning the “savage practice of watching chickens trying to kill each other” was clearly a high priority.

I agree, cockfighting is cruel and inhumane, and chickens shouldn’t be subjected to this treatment. But Rep. Altman needs a reality check. Not only do the abused women suffer (and sometimes die), but their children suffer as well. What’s truly savage is Rep. Altman’s total disregard for the welfare of abused women.

KIMICO MYERS

Columbia

• Altman’s opinions don’t make good law

Rep. John Altman needs some serious enlightenment. This is far worse than the “lock your car, don’t encourage a thief” mentality.

Women who return to abusive relationships are victims not only of the abuser, but of their own emotional makeup. They are victims of their own fears and feelings of a lack of self-worth, as well. Many believe they have no choice or, worse, deserve the abuse.

Physical abuse is not the abuser’s only crime. He “imprisons his victim,” often with apologies and words of love, “strangles” his victim emotionally, and “kills” his victim’s ability to think rationally. Moreover, his crimes have a domino effect when children are in the home. The children not only are emotionally abused, but grow up believing the perpetrator’s behavior is normal.

Some enterprising psychologist should inform Rep. Altman of the facts, so that he will not continue to vocally demonstrate his ignorance. His own opinions are his entitlement, but his opinions should not be considered a precedent for law.

JOYCE MARTIN

West Columbia

• Replace Altman with better representative

I’m actually glad that Rep. John Graham Altman made his comments on tape rather than just on the floor or in committee (“Domestic violence bill to be revived,” April 21). This way it ensures that at least one member of the Judiciary Committee probably won’t be returning after his next election.

I grew up in the Los Angeles area and at one point was dating a woman who had been in an emergency shelter (one set up in a hidden location to protect immediate family members from homicidal retaliation). Maybe because I had to deal with the emotional repercussions from this experience, I have a clearer understanding that criminal domestic violence situations are not even close to being the black-and-white issues Mr. Altman would have us believe. I would just hope that his replacement will be able to show more restraint than he.

GARY COLEMAN

Gaston

• Wrong person called ‘not very bright’

So, our esteemed House Judiciary Committee kills a bill increasing penalties for domestic violence, while at the same time reporting out another measure making cockfighting a felony?

I’m sure the cocks are pleased, but we women, who are under the impression that our lives are worth at least as much as a bird’s, are not. In a state where women continue to be battered — and killed — at one of the highest rates in the nation, year after year, John Graham Altman and his colleagues should be ashamed. Who is it again who is “not very bright”?

JAN COLLINS

Columbia

• S.C. suffers when lawmakers err

Apparently there is to be no respite from the boorish, offensive and ego-driven behaviors of some members of the General Assembly.

Apparently there is no limit to the tolerance of their colleagues for these behaviors that tarnish the credibility of the entire Legislature. In spite of several hundred years of experience, South Carolina has yet to learn that its greatest suffering is the result of self-inflicted wounds.

HAYES MIZELL

Columbia