I get a big kick out of Mr. James Olsen describing himself as a reform conservative. Gary Tripp, too, in his latest pronouncement called Mr. Olsen a reform conservative (“Supports Olsen for state House, position 2,” page A4, Oct. 3 Herald).

Correct me if I am wrong, but isn’t a “reformer” someone who wants to change things, and a “conservative” someone who not only does not want to change, but wants to go back to the good old days? So, a reform conservative is, then, like a political hermaphrodite, someone who has no clue what he wants and who he is.

The problem for Mr. Olsen is that he has defined himself over the years as conservative, but that does not get him enough votes. So, by adding “reform” to his political resume, he expects to harvest a few more votes.

If Mr. Olsen wants to emulate a Republican reformer, check President Theodore Roosevelt’s accomplishments. If he wants to emulate a true “reform conservative” — the only one I know right off hand — learn from Chancellor Bismarck who introduced, for practical reason, universal healthcare into Germany. A very conservative Prussian aristocrat, nevertheless, realized the economic advantage of a healthy, educated German people.

Here is the deal, Mr. Olsen: You publicly support Obamacare, and I accept “reform conservative” as a new breed of politician.

James Behrend
Bainbridge Island