Defending Iowans

Regarding “Cruz’s win not indicative,” the Feb. 12 letter from Richard Penca: He states “He (Cruz) won in Iowa because rural fundamentalists, many of whom are semi-literate, stormed the Iowa caucuses.”

Overall, I do not dispute that any primary or caucus, including Iowa’s, is ever indicative of an election’s final outcome. However, as an Iowan, I take umbrage to the terms “semi-literate” and “rural fundamentalists.” Penca may have to look up the definition of “umbrage.”

Here are some facts he may find interesting: Iowa ranks third in the country in percentage of high school graduates. Washington ranks 16th. Over 68 percent of Iowans live in urban areas. Only 1.5 percent farm.

Now, if Penca has a problem with people who live their lives by sound, fundamental principles, here are some more facts: In Iowa, 75 percent of the population has a Christian religious affiliation, while Washington comes in at only 61 percent.

It sounds like Penca needs to have all the facts before firing off a letter that disparages (another word for him to look up) a wonderful segment of our U.S. population; one he should choose to emulate. It sounds like he probably belongs in the Donald Trump camp.

Mike Payson

Spokane Valley