Letter: Apply truth laws to political ads

Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2000 | 10:34 a.m.

We have laws in this country referred to as "truth in advertising." If a company puts an ad on the radio, television or newspaper that falsely extols the virtue, or makes a false statement about a product, federal law comes into play.

The advertiser is required to cease and desist and issue a corrective statement. He also may be required to pay a hefty fine.

We collectively have been bombarded on our television set, radio, newspaper and mailings by "political advertising" of the worst kind.

This material has been put out by all political parties and contain false, misleading or incomplete information about a candidate or his opponent.

It is no different when it comes to initiatives on the ballot. Why should not these same laws -- truth in advertising -- apply to political campaign advertising and literature?

RAYMOND HARBERT

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