Dylan Kelley writes from Bradford, Vermont:
I've been watching your show for some time now and would like to thank you for renewing my hope and faith in the ideas and inspirations (equality, freedom of speech, a well informed citizendry, the democratic process) that make up the foundations of America.My family is descendant of irish immigrants. Because of this we've always held in high regard the notion of equality of opportunity. The idea that if one works hard enough they will able to accomplish their dreams.The politics of these past few years have left many of the ideas of the founding fathers and the ideas in the Constitution in quite murky water. So much of what's out there in the political arena seems to stem from a pervasive xenophobia. So much of the political establishment is afraid of the other: Immigrants, Arab Americans, African Americans, working-class Americans.In response to such rampant xenophobia (and emboldened by the fighting spirit of yourself and others) I've gotten a simple tattoo to remind myself and others of a few of the ideas that once guided America through tumultuous times (don't worry... it's not one of those terrible celebrity portrait tattoos).While the "nerd factor" needle might be peaking right now... I'm quite of both my tattoo and also proud that you and your colleagues so fondly and fervently care for the country, its people, and their rights with the same ardent passion as I.