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Battling Election-Day Glitches

Michael Scherer's article is full of good information and good reporting [Nov. 3]. In the future, perhaps it would be useful to do a companion article on what steps are being taken by states, counties, political campaigns and independent groups to mitigate some of these potential problems. That ought to include information on what a voter can do on the spot when a problem is encountered at a polling place. Are there officials who can be contacted in case of a problem? Are there people from each campaign standing by ready to help? Gail Goldey, SANTA FE, N.M.

Where's the Beef?

As a Barack Obama supporter, I was excited to read that your cover promised "Exclusive: Joe Klein Grills Obama" [Nov. 3]. I felt that such a serious turn in reporting was exactly what the country needed. However, the article itself felt barely reheated, let alone grilled. Indeed, Klein refers almost apologetically to an earlier interview in which Obama "grew a bit testy when I pushed him on the need for universal health insurance and a more aggressive global-warming policy." Instead of continuing to push, Klein came off as merely pulling the Obama wagon toward the presidential finish line. Please, Mr. Klein, we finally have in Obama the grownup we've been missing for the past eight years. Grill him like one! My stomach simply can't take being force-fed any more leadership that is, shall we say, half-baked. Kelly McLaughlin, NEW HAVEN, CONN.

Your cover shouted of an "Exclusive" grilling of Obama, yet you sadly missed the opportunity to elicit some answers from the Democratic candidate. There was no grilling to be had. For that, Klein might have had to bring up any one of dozens of serious policy, experience and belief questions that might not serve the campaign's narrative. It is indeed sad that the first time Obama is likely to actually feel any grilling is in the boiler room of the Oval Office. Jeffrey C. Kastelic CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP, PA.

PETA, Pets and Politics

Thanks for your "10 Questions With Ingrid Newkirk," from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) [Nov. 3]. When the future of the economy and politics is as uncertain as it is these days, it's refreshing to get Newkirk's reminder that the important thing in life is to do good, help others and be kind to all animals--not just the cute ones. Anna West, RICHMOND, VA.

The 10 Questions put to Newkirk truly inspired me. I called over my two French poodles, patted and hugged them and left the house to have a Black Angus cheeseburger combo with fries. While I enjoyed eating the delicious burger, I contemplated how some people feel empowered enough to step out and try to force their opinions and beliefs on others as if they were gospel. Jonathan B. Smith, TORONTO

Bad President, Great Film