I commend the editorial board of the Sun Journal for its editorial addressing Sen. John Nutting’s post-election ad regarding his lopsided loss to Senator-elect Garrett Mason (Nov. 9). Nutting’s response to the will of 56 percent of the voters in his district is what is fueling the fire of such groups as the tea party.

After serving for years in Augusta (or in Washington for that matter), elected officials conclude that they are “entitled” to remain in office or, indeed, move up, as in the case of the failed candidacy of Libby Mitchell. One can certainly understand their disappointment in receiving roughly 44 percent and 20 percent of the vote, respectively, in the recent election.

Many people are desperate for change. By belittling his successor, Sen. Nutting has only stoked the fire that is burning in many voters to oust anyone in office whose demeanor smacks of elitism or the aforementioned feelings of “entitlement.”

Can there be any doubt about how strong a reaction such demeanor has evoked? Across the country, nearly 700 state senators and representatives have been replaced.

While that particular wave favored Republican candidates, both parties have been served notice by the people they represent. They are elected to serve their constituents, not to work to ensure their perpetual re-election.

Now, let the deliberations begin.

The jury of voters is out. The verdict will come in a couple of years at the ballot box, regardless of party affiliation.

Daniel J. Mancine, Jay