As Yates County Democratic chairperson, I read with great interest and complete outrage Jeremy Moule's interview with David Nachbar. Mr. Nachbar refers to Eric Massa simply as a "government employee." How can he denigrate the service of Commander Eric Massa and the many thousands upon thousands of servicemen and women who have given so much for America, when he has spent the last 20 years enriching himself, and most recently in his present position shipping jobs overseas?

Mr. Nachbar goes on to say that the endorsement process is "silly," yet he has made little or no effort to meet with the county committees. Here in Yates County, we arranged two meetings at mutually agreed-upon times, although both times as the date approached, he was unable to join us. I believe it is Mr. Nachbar who shows no respect for the democratic process.

Mr. Nachbar has never been active in Democratic politics; in fact, in 2006 when he decided to run the first time, he was not even a registered Democrat. At that time, he sat in my living room and told us he had been recruited to run for Congress. His candidacy did not rise up from deeply held convictions or dedication to service then or now. Mr. Nachbar is a wealthy businessman who feels he can dismiss party leaders because he has the money to buy TV time.

Perhaps the 29th will be a testing ground for democracy. Does money buy a congressional seat, or does hard-earned grassroots support choose a candidate and elect him to office? Mr. Nachbar's candidacy is the antithesis of a voter-centered campaign. Early endorsements for Eric Massa are not "silly"; they are the result of Eric's hard work and desire to meet with the voters. Endorsements are the culmination of a healthy democratic process, of which Mr. Nachbar has no real understanding.

We in the rural counties and urban towns of the 29th District have worked hard for Eric Massa, and we will continue to support him because he brings us hope that the process can function as it was designed over 200 years ago. We are confident that Eric Massa will continue his life of service as our congressman.

Carolyn Schaeffer, Merritt Hill Road, Penn Yan