What is democratic socialism? There appears to be much confusion about this. Let’s review some of the things that belong in this category.

Public education is democratic socialism. So is the military’s health care program. So is MaineCare.

Opposed to socialism? Shall we cancel these programs and many others? What do we do about educating our children? Or protecting our properties — should we cancel our socialist fire and police departments?

There’s nothing wrong with homeschooling. But is that what we want? If one’s home catches fire, without a fire department, one would have to depend on neighbors to help.

Do we still want to eliminate democratic socialism?

Eliot J. Chandler

Augusta