Professor Mark Mansperger's views of the tea party and the Tri-Cities (In Focus, Oct. 23) are a reflection of his own left-wing socialist views. If there is an element of xenophobia it is in Mansperger's fear of fiscal conservatives. He continues the old liberal acorn that all of our economic problems were caused by President Bush and that we would be saved if only President Obama could raise taxes.

Mansperger is correct when he states that the Constitution does not mention capitalism. However, he is totally wrong when he asserts that the "general welfare" clause of the Constitution justifies government health care benefits. More taxes and government subsidies will destroy our economy.

I sincerely hope that Professor Mansperger knows more about anthropology than he does economics and the Constitution. I also hope he does not "teach" his left-wing political views in the classroom.

RICHARD HAMES, Richland