I agree that the writers should no longer be part of the process.
I've also softened my personal stance on the Steroid Era greats. They should be in the Hall of Fame. Real fans of the game will understand the era they were from. It was more of a level playing field than many want to acknowledge. Clemens and Bonds belong in the Hall of Fame.
Schilling, while not an overwhelming "slam dunk," stats-wise, should also be in. As much of an absolute ass as he is off the field, he is not a criminal and hasn't hurt anyone. The HOF is full of scum bags, i.e. - Ty Cobb.
Don't get me wrong, though - I won't be upset if Clemens and Bonds never get in. They're not only cheaters; they're liars. But they were clearly two of the best, so I also won't be upset if they DO get in. Totally indifferent.
Schilling could have easily just taken a stand against writers and said "take me off the ballot." He didn't need to take shots at other players. He's a classless bum. But he's a HOF pitcher and a classless bum.