Back president, but challenge him, too

I watched and listened intently to President Trump/s address to Congress. While I cringed at the thought of him as president, he was elected, and I want our country to succeed. In spite of some inaccuracies, I liked some of his proposals, but was disappointed at his lack of detail. The biggest positive was that he didn't pick a fight with anyone and did a minimum amount of boasting. He said that despite our differences we must work together for the common good: interesting words from the most decisive candidate I've ever witnessed.

One troublesome thing is his attitude toward regulations. The idea that before passing a regulation, two existing ones must be repealed is ridiculous. There's no doubt there are restrictive regulations that should be repealed and every effort should made to do just that. New regulations should be considered on their own merits and nothing else.

Of course, many in the corporate world, as well as some politicians, think there are no good ones. Tell that to the citizens of Flint, Michigan, or the citizens of Appalachia.

Trump was already at work on this before his speech was ever written. He appointed a man to head the EPA who has fought that organization for years. He signed legislation that allowed coal companies to dump waste in local streams and oil companies to dump waste in the Gulf of Mexico. This irresponsible act will cause death and destruction for many years to come.

I believe Democrats and Republicans have a responsibility to work together for the good of the country and its citizens. They both should work with the president if he's right and hold his feet to the fire when he's wrong.

Ron Flowers

Elk Grove Village