Legal expertise on committee beneficial

Dean Varner's April 12 letter ('Hardships of military service deserve reward”) made a good point about supporting state tax exemption for our veterans. It is one thing we can do for those who, with their families, have sacrificed so much.

However, his gratuitous, snarky remark about Rep. Bruce Braley deserves a response. Varner accuses Braley of '… (thinking) a law degree sets you apart from the unwashed masses.”

Because the Senate Judiciary Committee deals with cases of espionage, civil liberties, bankruptcy, amendments added to or reorganized within the U.S. Constitution and has broad influence over criminal law, a law degree is indeed beneficial. This is illustrated by the fact that 14 of 18 sitting committee members have law degrees.

Although Braley could have better stated his case for being on the committee, the importance of having experts in legal matters serve on the Judiciary Committee is undeniable.

Jerry Chilton

Cedar Rapids