Sizing Up Ex-Irvine Mayor Agran as a Candidate in Race for U.S. President

As a disappointed Democrat, I was happy to see your item on our local candidate Larry Agran and was curious enough to attend his press conference announcing his candidacy for President (“Agran Joins White House Race with Liberal Dose of Optimism,” Aug. 23).

Like so many others present, I wondered just where he thought he could raise enough money to engage in such a costly campaign, which could run well over $10 million. One member of the press asked: “If you only expect to receive a maximum of $1,000 per company and only $500 from any individual and none at all from private interest groups, how do you ever expect to reach this goal?”

Mr. Agran surprised all present by stating: “So many voters, especially Democrats, have kept from voting because they felt their vote didn’t count, and rightfully so. The past two administrations have only provided lip service. Crime, homelessness, drugs, poorer schools, increased deficit are all still prominent problems in our present society. My campaign will not be run on paid TV, but rather I will go in person across this country and speak at town meetings, city halls and meet with the voters of this country wherever it might happen to be. I think that most people want a change and will accept one if it is logical and workable, and I offer just that type of program. All I ask is a platform and a chance to be heard, and then be judged.”

If Larry Agran has this much faith to feel that he can once again have the average voter take interest in our national elections, he deserves to be heard. As voters, we have received just what we have deserved. It is indeed refreshing to know that there are still a few true Americans left who have courage enough to tackle a standing system, one that has long outlived its time, and whether we know it or not, it needs nearly as much change as does the old Soviet communism.

A change in terms of office, the electoral college and a cap on election spending are just a few of the changes we need in order to clean our own house and put the approval of laws, taxes and pay raises back in the hands of the people. By the way he comes across, I feel that Mr. Agran could at least start the ball rolling!

LES SNYDER, Mission Viejo