Burgess Owens has proclaimed his allegiance to President Donald Trump, who has proudly shown him off at campaign events. In my view, these are simply self-serving publicity stunts. Trump needs Black votes, so shows off on national TV an enthusiastic supporter who is a Black ex-NFL player. Owens also needs publicity because nobody knows him and he has no relevant experience. Even in a strongly Republican, football-mad state, he still comes into the election as an underdog. He hasn’t been in Utah long. He’s had several bankruptcies, yet is asking us to let him be a steward of the nation’s money and future.
In contrast, Rep. Ben McAdams is eminently qualified. He’s an attorney in a body that writes laws. He spent four years in the Utah Legislature, four as mayor of Salt Lake County, and now two in Congress. His voting record in Congress may be the most nonpartisan of all members. Just what I look for in a representative.
Even worse than Owens’ complete lack of qualifications is his wholehearted public support of Trump. The whole idea of Congress is that a representative should represent his constituents, not just the president or even his party. Each representative costs taxpayers in excess of $1.5 million in salary, office expense, staff, travel and office and mailing expenses. I’m not willing to risk that on Owens. Are you?
Frank Fish, Taylorsville
Letter: Owens is unqualified for public office /p>