Condemning citizens is not productive debate
I am compelled to respond to the lead letter published on Memorial Day. The writer exhibits a contemptuous tone toward his fellow Americans. I would remind the author that American governance has always depended on robust debate. However, democracy deteriorates when mere disagreement becomes disdain, as reflected in his characterization of his fellow citizens. That is uncivil.
Bruce Parker asks, “Who are these people?” Let me tell you. We are ordinary American citizens, neighbors, individuals from diverse backgrounds, circumstances, occupations, social classes and lifestyles. Some are Angel Moms and Angel Dads who lost their children because of ill-conceived Democratic policies on the border and in sanctuary cities. Whether Parker likes it or not, we are everywhere.
As for character, we judge these matters differently than Mr. Parker does. Presidents Kennedy and Clinton had character flaws. Innuendo is not conviction.
Trump’s policies have helped produce one of the largest waves of announced private-sector and foreign investment commitments in recent memory. The resulting manufacturing resurgence promises new jobs. And Trump Accounts potentially provide a transformative financial stake for your children’s and grandchildren’s futures.
We support Trump’s tax policies affecting Social Security benefits, overtime and tip income, strict border enforcement policies in memory of our Angel families, policing that ensures law and order in our streets and foreign policies that address our homeland’s security. And yes, had politicians continued kicking the Iran problem down the road after nearly five decades of hostility, the danger would only have grown. For Parker and me, the ultimate nightmare would be Iran possessing a nuclear bomb after years of “Death to America” rhetoric.
Parker’s disagreement does not entitle him to treat millions of Americans, myself included, with different priorities and solid convictions as though we are unworthy of respect.
He needs to rethink, “Who are these people?”
William Anderson, Schaumburg