On Oct. 14, The Gazette headline asked “Does it matter who’s elected?” and the story (about the national election) then proceeded to make the irresponsible case that it doesn’t, possibly discouraging citizens from going to the polls in a country already plagued with voter apathy and voter suppression efforts.

While partisan gridlock will likely remain a challenge when it comes to domestic issues, ask yourself this: If George W. Bush hadn’t been elected, would we have gone to war in Iraq? Ask this: Do you want two more Scalia-type Supreme Court justices appointed by the next president?

Never forget, the president is the commander in chief, setting the tone and agenda for foreign policy. And the president’s Supreme Court appointees have influence that lasts for decades. Yes, it matters.

Gretchen Aschoff

Cedar Rapids