To the editors:

As a distanced observer to the politics of the Undergraduate Council and a former student at Harvard, I was frankly shocked by the appearance of this latest scandal in student government (News, Dec. 20).

Obviously the margin of Fentrice Driskell and John Burton's election makes the situation difficult. A new election is out of the question and would only waste time and result in low participation.

As a neutral party, I recommend the following course of action. Since Driskell won by so much, it would be equivalent to spitting in the face of voters not to allow her to take office. However if there were campaign infractions, and from The Crimson's coverage it seems like there were, someone must be punished.

Therefore I suggest that John Burton not be allowed to take his office as vice president and whoever the second place finisher is be allowed to assume the office instead. Ms. Driskell should also be given immunity from being impeached by the council for anything connected to the campaign finance scandal. People will be alienated and upset if either both Driskell and Burton are allowed to assume office or if they are both barred from holding office. I believe that a compromise such as the one listed above is needed for the good of the already ailing and extremely weak council.

Patrick C. Crosetto

Dec. 20, 1999