Letter: Sad to see Chanos bow out of election

Thursday, March 23, 2006 | 7:23 a.m.

I was disheartened to read the Sun's March 16 article regarding George Chanos deciding not to run for election for the position of attorney general.

It is unfortunate that the best candidate is not determined by qualifications and track record, but on which political consultant can dig up the most inflammatory innuendos and allegations, regardless of the truth.

The truth is that I consider Mr. Chanos to be at least a close acquaintance, if not a friend. Mr. Chanos is an intelligent attorney, who built up a successful private law practice, and is a man of integrity and character.

Not too long ago, Mr. Chanos and I were opposing counsel on a civil case. In that matter, Mr. Chanos displayed keen legal acumen, and was a zealous advocate for his client. Just as important, Mr. Chanos demonstrated and extended professionalism and courtesy, which in the legal community is sorely lacking.

It is my opinion that Mr. Chanos agreed to be appointed to the position of attorney general, not because of the influence, power or pay of the position, but because he felt he could make a positive difference in Nevada.

Because Mr. Chanos does not wish to subject himself or his family to the inevitable mudslinging by the Democratic Party and its hired political consultants that the campaign will bring, he has decided not to run.

Who will lose? The people of Nevada, who will once again have to settle for a less competent candidate in this extremely important position. By the way, I am a registered Democrat.

Nelson L. Cohen, Las Vegas