A few readers have taken issue with my Sunday column, or parts of it at least, specifically regarding Tom McClintock. The excerpt fairly sums up the responses….

Although it is not that big in the scheme of things, I do take issue with your criticism of Tom McClintock. While he may not have the charisma of someone who is more elect-able, Tom is one of the most intelligent, honest, and diplomatic politicians this state has seen in a long time. When it comes to addressing the state’s structural problems, I believe he is far more qualified than any other state-level candidate at this time.

So that I am 100% clear, I agree completely with this reader’s assessment of Tom. I too wish Tom had won. I endorsed him and respect him. However, my column was not about his ability to serve, but his viability as a statewide candidate. Two separate issues.