Editor:

I read with interest Mr. Goodenough's and Mr. Tompkins' letters that were published on July 21. As these two letters seemed to be coordinated, I would like to respond to both of these letters at the same time.

I would initially state that I consider Mr. Goodenough a friend of mine. He has certainly devoted much time and energy to the Wyoming Democratic Party during the years. However, Mr. Goodenough does not have the right or ability to determine whether or not a person is a "true Democrat."

I have known Nick Carter for many, many years, both personally and professionally, and was formerly employed by him. Whether or not Nick has been a registered Democrat for any particular amount of time is to me much less important than where his heart and beliefs are now, and have always been. The Nick Carter I know has always -- always -- embraced the ideals and vision of the Wyoming Democratic Party.

Quite frankly, until I had read Mr. Goodenough's and Mr. Tompkins' letters, I was unsure whether or not Mr. Goodenough was still a candidate for the nomination of the Wyoming Democratic Party to oppose Sen. Barrasso.

Although a registered Democrat myself and a long-time activist in the Wyoming Democratic Party, I have yet to receive any campaign literature from or on behalf of Mr. Goodenough or see any advertisements promoting his candidacy. It is my understanding that Mr. Goodenough has not raised enough money for his campaign to be required to file a federal election contribution report.

Keeping in mind the old adage that "money is the mother's milk of politics," the Wyoming Democratic Party does not need to nominate a person who cannot finance a credible campaign against Sen. Barrasso.

I do not know Mr. Tompkins, but for him to characterize Nick Carter as "another Bush neoconservative in Democratic clothing" shows without any doubt that he does not know the first thing about Nick Carter. I know Nick Carter. Nick Carter is a friend of mine. And you, Mr. Tompkins, are no Nick Carter.

ROBERT J. O'NEIL, Gillette