Recently some mailings attacking my House District 45 opponent, Mark Sievers, were sent out by an independent political committee. Neither I nor anyone in my campaign had knowledge of or participation in these mailings. I was as dismayed as anyone to see such tactics.

I have consistently spoken against "over the top" negative campaigning and I am proud of the positive campaign that I've run and am continuing to run. These tactics hurt not only the two candidates, but they can weaken the trust of the public in their elected officials and in their government.

Campaign "reform" law is very clear, however, that neither a candidate nor a candidate's campaign may "coordinate" with these independent committees. Individuals not associated with my campaign, however, are free to contact the committee. It is registered with the Secretary of State and lists a registered agent.

Both my opponent and I have waged a positive campaign focusing on our strengths as candidates. I ask voters to judge my campaign by my actions, not the actions of others.