After reading the letter by Dr. Smith ("Vote for Republicans to end practice of abortion," YourViews, Oct. 28)) urging people to vote straight Republican to end abortion, I can no longer remain silent.

There is a huge difference between being pro-choice and being pro-abortion. Why are people who want "less government" so eager to impose government regulations on others when it comes to abortion?

Abortion is neither a Democratic nor a Republican issue. It is personal. It is not up to the government to tell me or other women what to do with our bodies. This decision is between the woman, her partner and her God. I believe choice is a gift that separates us from other life forms. Because a fat-laden food is available does not mean that I have to eat it; because a book has been published does not mean that I have to read it; because Roe v. Wade makes abortion legal does not mean that I must have one. I am thankful that I never had to make the personal decision about whether or not to have an abortion; I am also grateful that, after Roe v Wade, the option was there if there were extenuating circumstances. Let the individual make the decision that is best for her.

Diana Hauman

Bloomington

Do you agree?