Alta Journal readers respond to “My Friend Pete,” by Robert Caughlan. Got something to say? We’d love to hear from you! Email letters@altaonline.com. Please include your name, city, state, and phone number so we can contact you. Letters may be edited for brevity and clarity.
A MAN OF THE PEOPLE
When I was 17, and the voting age was still 21, I rode my bicycle to Huddart Park in Woodside, to what Pete McCloskey called a Constituent Day. Even though it was obvious I couldn’t vote, Pete took me seriously and listened to me. Everybody in the area knew that Pete would win reelection, so he didn’t need me to help in his campaign, but my first political campaign was Pete’s friend, Sam Halsted.
Many years and elections later, I’ve met members of Congress, a presidential candidate, and all sorts of officeholders and officeholder wannabes. That moment with Pete McCloskey stands out as one of the greatest moments of my life.
Eric Petersen
Salinas, California
July 4, 2024
A RARE GEM
Loved this article and found it so interesting. Thank you!
On a personal note, my father was campaign manager for Shirley Temple Black when she ran against Pete McCloskey. I was a disinterested teenager in high school—and was more in agreement with McCloskey’s values!
I believe there was even a fundraiser at our home in San Mateo for Black—I skipped it for a day in San Francisco with some high school friends! I never even met her!
Another great article on a very topical person—thank you!
Gail Ganino
Albany, California
July 4, 2024 •
