I am absolutely devastated that Jesse Ventura decided not to run. While I truly understand his desire to protect his family from the viciousness of the media, I mourn the loss of a true voice of the people.

The fact that so many people all over the country rush to support Ventura is proof that “we the people” are not being represented in government. Jesse champions all of the causes and ideals that the common man (woman) wants — isn’t that what an elected official is supposed to do?

The sad fact is that if we don’t vote at all, the usual Democrat/Republican candidates will take control of our lives anyway; if we do vote, we have only one of the above to vote for.

Are there any other Jesse Venturas out there? If so, we the people need you.

Jeanine Gurley

Sumter, S.C.