John Hostettler's Iraq war vote shows he has the courage to lead 8th District

John Hostettler is the clear choice for the 8th District Congressional race.

As a concerned citizen of the 8th district of Indiana, I am writing to express my support for the principled statesman, John Hostettler. John Hostettler served in the United States House of Representatives representing Indiana's 8th congressional district from 1995 to 2007. John was respected on both sides of the aisle due to his courage and virtuous nature that was evident during his tenure.

Congressman Hostettler was one of six House Republicans to oppose the use of force resolution against Iraq in 2002. It took great courage to vote against the other 97% of his House Republican colleagues regarding the use of American taxpayer money to fund a quagmire that resulted in untold death and destruction. Unfortunately, it is very possible the next Congress of the United States may vote on another use of force resolution.

I encourage you to look at the plethora of Republican candidates for the 8th congressional district and determine where each one stands before you cast your vote. The well-being and prosperity of our country hinges upon a non-interventionist foreign policy that puts America first and avoids costly and protracted conflicts overseas. His prescient vote against the Iraq war speaks volumes about being principled in the face of something that is politically unpopular. Diplomacy and strategic restraint are the best options if war can be avoided.

Hostettler also understands that a sound money policy is vital. Fiscal responsibility must supersede short-term political gains that destroy our currency through the hidden tax of inflation.

Hostettler is a dedicated and accessible public servant who meets with constituents regularly. He took the time to visit the Indiana State University campus many times to address concerns when I was a student studying there. While you may not agree with Hostettler on a variety of issues, you will know that if you vote for him, that you are voting for a pragmatic and upstanding person that does not kowtow to big-money donors at the expense of his constituents and their future.

Alex Hohl is on the Dubois County Council.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Why Indiana needs John Hostettler to represent 8th District