Palin turns on GOP advocate

To the editor:

Mike Castle, a Republican congressman from Delaware, lost a bid for U.S. Senate to Christine O’Donnell.

Rep. Castle has long been a champion for special education and for individuals with disabilities. Sarah Palin turned against these important issues by endorsing Castle’s opponent. A nine-term member of the House and former governor of Delaware, Castle is known for his interest in K-12 issues and served on the House Education and Labor Committee.

Rep. Castle authored the reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) which guarantees a free, appropriate public education to students with disabilities and co-authored the 2001 Elementary and Secondary Education Act.

This year, Rep. Castle was recognized with the Distinguished Advocacy Award from the National Council for Learning Disabilities and the Outstanding Public Service Award by the Council for Exceptional Children.

Bruce Ramirez, executive director of the CEC, said in Education Week magazine, “Rep. Castle has consistently led the effort to improve federal programs benefiting children, youth and adults with disabilities.”

Palin’s endorsement of Christine O’Donnell is a loss for special education and for individuals with disabilities.

Larry Lynn

Palmer