Readers respond to Question of the Week: Scott, Elder, Haley and GOP's future

Most intriguing are Tim Scott and Vivek Ramaswamy

Tim already has a significant war chest and Vivek could selffund if necessary. Vivek's positive and joyful personal presentation is undeniable. His IQ and business accomplishments are impressive. Tim's engaging smile, his embracing of traditional American values and his overcoming the challenges of his early life make him a compelling candidate. I would be honored to support either one. I would hope that they would avoid engaging with Donald Trump. They should be open to candidacy for vice president. On the basic policy issues of the day, I believe nearly all the Republican candidates are similar. The American people are fed up with the lack of character in government. This is where I believe that Tim Scott has a clear advantage. He must be a threat, for the leftist name-calling has already begun.

— Stephen Smith, Eagle Rock

The GOP 2024

Republicans have to create a big tent inviting the minority vote if they want to win another election. The party needs to focus on promoting American values by reducing taxes and regulations. Uphold the true meaning of our Constitution. Supporting family values, with an emphasis on education could be the heartbeat of the party. Develop a clear message regarding abortion and homosexual life. Keep away from demonizing your adversary. Become the common-sense party. Accept alternative energy concepts by using gas/oil profits to propel the effort to alternative energy. Maintain the military, built up with resources to protect America. Stay away from wars but support free democracies across the globe. Inviting many alternative views to a Republican primary presidential election will be exceptional for voters to make a quality decision.

— Stephen Lucas, Van Nuys

GOP candidates

Simple answer: Any of these three “minority” candidates are far better choices for president than the proposed Democratic candidate's, Biden and probably Harris, who are proven incompetent puppets of the far left Democrat “progressive” agenda. They all respect the fundamental values of our founders as expressed in the Constitution.

— Joseph F. Paggi Jr.,

Pasadena