Tucson speaks up: Letters to the editor for the week of Mar. 15, 2024
- Updated
Our weekly round-up of letters published in the Arizona Daily Star.
- Boris Slovek, Green Valley
President Biden went to Brownsville, TX to promote the Senate's Border legislation, which is so full of border enforcement holes that a truck could drive through them. Biden has only been to the border twice in three years as over seven million have entered illegally on his watch. Texas is no longer the epicenter of illegal immigration because Governor Abbott has secured the border there with razor wire and shipping containers. Trump appeared in Eagle Pass with the head of the Border Patrol Union who said Agents were "mad as hell and pissed off at Biden's policies." Liberal run sanctuary cities are shielding migrants arrested for crimes by not cooperating with ICE. Georgia University student Laken Riley was murdered and seriously disfigured by "legally processed and released" from Border Patrol custody asylum seeker Venezuelan Jose Ibarra. He subsequently traveled to New York City and was arrested for child endangerment. ICE could have placed a Detainer on him but, NYC is a sanctuary city. Laken would still be alive attending college.
Boris Slovek
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jon Benda, Midtown
If Trump wins in November, he plans to make Medicare Advantage plans the default program for everyone who is newly eligible. Medicare Advantage is privatized insurance; unlike traditional Medicare, it puts an insurance company between you and your health treatments. Traditional Medicare has no such "middleman"; the government pays for your healthcare.
Medicare Advantage plans put profits before people, regularly denying coverage for essential treatments and services, forcing patients to forgo the care they need and putting their health and lives at risk.. Meanwhile, private insurance CEOs rake in the money, at the expense of seniors and those with disabilities.
Over 65 million Americans rely on Medicare for their health care, and over 400,000 people become newly eligible each year. Their health and lives are at stake in the November election.
Voters need to tell Trump: NO PRIVATIZATION OF MEDICARE!!
Jon Benda
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dan Pendergrass, West side
Trump mad a big deal out of the nurse killed by a migrant, but another tragedy occurred recently in Olivette, Missouri. A young man shot and killed his mother when she came in the back door of their house because he thought she was an intruder. Yes, he had been a victim of crime as many of us have been. One has to wonder, however if the priming of the masses with violent rhetoric from the Trumplican faction hasn't created a level of dangerous paranoia. Many studies have shown that people can be primed to think along certain lines. This is the basis for much of marketing. So when the leader of the Republican party screams bloody murder from the pulpit, you have to consider the ramifications on the populace. The truth is that Trump only cares about Trump, so this is just alligator tears.
Dan Pendergrass
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jeff Rayner, SaddleBrooke
So a guy gets found guilty of defamation by a jury, to the tune of $5 million. Then he cannot keep his mouth shut and is saddled with another $83 million in damages. The guy is still running his mouth. Stupid has a new personification.
Some people think this guy is presidential material. Never mind the stupid part, what about the lack of self control? Perhaps he thinks his supporters will pay for all of his poor behavior and bad acts. Who will pay if he becomes our president and pulls his stunts in the name of the USA?
Jeff Rayner
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- James Abels, Midtown
Re: 3/11/24 Fair share letter
The current tax rates are based a progressive tax schedule. Progressive: as defined by Merriam-Webster 4b "increasing in rate as the base increases". Not to be confused with Progressive Liberalism.
The Federal tax code is not based on a 'fair share' concept but on the ability to pay concept. The more a taxable entity earns or receives, the greater that entity's ability to pay.
I would eliminate Federal 'C' Corp taxation and replace the individual tax rates from 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35% & 37% to 10%, 15%, 25%, 35% & 45% with roughly similar brackets. I would tax all income at the same rate with passive income taxed with a SS/MC premium similar to how self-employment income pays toward SS/MC. Tax territorial income only rather than global income. It's too easy to 'hide' global income. Tax it when it comes in country.
James Abels
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Rick Cohn, West side
Regarding Trump's removal from the Colorado ballot, SCOTUS justices Sotomayor, Kagan and Jackson wrote on Monday: “would … create a chaotic state-by-state patchwork.” In my letter-to-the-editor on February 8th, I wrote: "Overturning Roe v Wade, their premise was that the Constitution didn't address abortion which left the matter to be adjudicated by the individual states. In an about face, they are saying that despite the fact that the Constitution allows election procedural matters to be determined by the states, the states have to be reined in or chaos will ensue." Pardon me while I declare: "I told you so!"
I don't disagree with Sotomayor, Kagan, and Jackson. What bothers me is SCOTUS's ability to flip flop the reasoning behind its decisions. When the reasoning switches based on the direction that the wind is blowing, they are no longer interpreting the law; they are being political hacks.
Rick Cohn
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Melvina Strijdonk, Oro Valley
This new soup recipe is ready for the run up to November and was recently taste tested outside a Trump Rally.
Poll results are in:
59% said it had just the right amount of xenophobia 41% said it needed more
80% said racism and antisemitism were almost perfect 20%said it needed more
60% said it hit the mark with lies and deception 40% said it needed more
The results are in! Soup is ready to hit the market. If you don't want to make your own It will be sold in our tasteful carpetbagger gold cans and will cost $400 and be virtual. Order yours now!
Melvina Strijdonk
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bruce Hilpert, North side
The impact of the Alabama Supreme Court's decision that multi-celled embryos are “children” created in the image of god goes far beyond the impact on in-vitro fertilization. Chief Justice Parker is an avowed “dominionist,” a Christian philosophy that the United States should be administered according to biblical principles and mandates. Parker is a believer in the “Seven Mountains Mandate,” advocating that Christians must take over seven “mountains” of American culture: government, education, media, arts and entertainment, religion, family, and business.
Tellingly, Justice Parker's decision referenced the bible rather than the constitution to justify his decision. That is because our Constitution does not include the word “god.” Our country must fully understand the efforts of this minority of Americans whose goal is to usurp our constitution and our government. They have already made great strides toward this goal.
Bruce Hilpert
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Thomas Fletcher, Southwest side
It's hard for me to understand how one man, president Biden, could endanger this country. There our others in the background responsible for this but we can only suspect their involvement. The damage is done and we may never get back to the sovereign nation and security we always had. To secure the border now reminds me of the old saying"you closed the gate after the horses were gone" The leaders of this country don't know how to contain this mess. They may have turned the United States into the next third world country, The migrants will take advantage of what they get and use up Money that should be used to help Americans. The justice system isn't going to control what lies ahead and Now the migrants feel entitled to the best we have to offer for free. Other countries are watching and may consider this a time to test The United States and it's resolve.
Thomas Fletcher
Southwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ivan Stanski, Marana
Many people have read that Federal Prosecutor Hur did not indict President Biden on classified documents charges because of cognitive reasons, as in not recalling being Vice President. But I think Biden played the cognitive "I don't remember" game to the hilt with Hur, and it worked. Hur appeared before the House of Representatives where portions of his report were read. Biden had informed his book writer of finding classified "stuff" downstairs, but did not remember saying that when being interviewed by Hur. Biden said he did not remember finding classified materials in his home after his Vice Presidency, and did not remember how classified documents about Afghanistan got into his garage. These are classic "I don't remember" statements made by criminal suspects. I believe Hur, a seasoned federal prosecutor, fell for Biden's cognitive drama act hook line and sinker. A performance worthy of an Oscar. Biden either has serious cognitive issues making him unfit to be President or he repeatedly lied to Hur. Which is it?
Ivan Stanski
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- John Balsbaugh, Midtown
My mother died in December 2021, during the last year of her life, she would ask, if Trump was in jail yet. I would explain that the wheels of justice turn slowly. Never in my life could, I imagine that SCOTUS would throw sand in the works. The Roberts' Court is an abomination to the Lord! That is not my hyperbolic opinion that's right out of the Bible! "He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the just, Both (sic) of them alike are abominations to the Lord." (Prov. 17:15) Conservatives on the Court have a lot to answer for, when they die!
John Balsbaugh
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bert Stamper, Northwest side
My grand-daughter asked me to co-sign for a student loan. When I received the form, she was borrowing $5,000. The interest was $6,200. If the government would cancel the interest, it would be much easier to repay the loan. They could do this for all loans, rather than cherry-picking a select few. Both sides of this debate would receive equal benefit.
Bert Stamper
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
American problems
It’s hard for me to understand how one man, President Biden, could endanger this country. There are others in the background responsible for this but we can only suspect their involvement. The damage is done and we may never get back to the sovereign nation and security we always had. To secure the border now reminds me of the old saying “you closed the gate after the horses were gone.” The leaders of this country don’t know how to contain this mess. They may have turned the United States into the next third-world country, the migrants will take advantage of what they get and use up money that should be used to help Americans. The justice system isn’t going to control what lies ahead and now the migrants feel entitled to the best we have to offer for free. Other countries are watching and may consider this a time to test the United States and its resolve.
Thomas Fletcher
Southwest side
Be afraid; be very afraid
The impact of the Alabama Supreme Court’s decision that multi-celled embryos are “children” created in the image of god goes far beyond the impact on in-vitro fertilization. Chief Justice Parker is an avowed “dominionist,” a Christian philosophy that the United States should be administered according to biblical principles and mandates. Parker is a believer in the “Seven Mountains Mandate,” advocating that Christians must take over seven “mountains” of American culture: government, education, media, arts and entertainment, religion, family, and business.
Tellingly, Justice Parker’s decision referenced the Bible rather than the Constitution to justify his decision. That is because our Constitution does not include the word “god.” Our country must fully understand the efforts of this minority of Americans whose goal is to usurp our constitution and our government. They have already made great strides toward this goal.
Bruce Hilpert
North side
SCOTUS
My mother died in December 2021, during the last year of her life, she would ask, if Trump was in jail yet. I would explain that the wheels of justice turn slowly. Never in my life could I imagine that SCOTUS would throw sand in the works. The Roberts’ Court is an abomination to the Lord! That is not my hyperbolic opinion that’s right out of the Bible! “He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the just, Both (sic) of them alike are abominations to the Lord.” (Proverbs 17:15) Conservatives on the Court have a lot to answer for, when they die!
John Balsbaugh
Midtown
Biden’s border visit to Brownsville
President Biden went to Brownsville, Texas, to promote the Senate’s Border legislation, which is so full of border enforcement holes that a truck could drive through them. Biden has only been to the border twice in three years as over 7 million have entered illegally on his watch. Texas is no longer the epicenter of illegal immigration because Governor Abbott has secured the border there with razor wire and shipping containers. Trump appeared in Eagle Pass with the head of the Border Patrol Union who said agents were “mad as hell and pissed off at Biden’s policies.” Liberal-run sanctuary cities are shielding migrants arrested for crimes by not cooperating with ICE. Georgia University student Laken Riley was murdered and seriously disfigured by “legally processed and released” from Border Patrol custody asylum seeker Venezuelan Jose Ibarra. He subsequently traveled to New York City and was arrested for child endangerment. ICE could have placed a detainer on him but, NYC is a sanctuary city. Laken would still be alive attending college.
Boris Slovek
Green Valley
Student loans
Re: the March 1 letter “Student loan forgiveness.”
My granddaughter asked me to co-sign for a student loan. When I received the form, she was borrowing $5,000. The interest was $6,200. If the government would cancel the interest, it would be much easier to repay the loan. They could do this for all loans, rather than cherry-picking a select few. Both sides of this debate would receive equal benefit.
Bert Stamper
Northwest side
Supreme political justice
Regarding Trump’s removal from the Colorado ballot, SCOTUS justices Sotomayor, Kagan and Jackson wrote on Monday: “would … create a chaotic state-by-state patchwork.” In my letter-to-the-editor on Feb. 8, I wrote: “Overturning Roe v Wade, their premise was that the Constitution didn’t address abortion which left the matter to be adjudicated by the individual states. In an about face, they are saying that despite the fact that the Constitution allows election procedural matters to be determined by the states, the states have to be reined in or chaos will ensue.” Pardon me while I declare: “I told you so!”
I don’t disagree with Sotomayor, Kagan, and Jackson. What bothers me is SCOTUS’s ability to flip flop the reasoning behind its decisions. When the reasoning switches based on the direction that the wind is blowing, they are no longer interpreting the law; they are being political hacks.
Rick Cohn
West side
Fair share
Re: the March 11 letter “’Fair share’.”
Actually, I think the writer is noticing the wrong people discussing fair share taxes. Most of us wonder why billionaires who would have to pay millions in taxes seems to feel they will be going broke with only 950 million dollars left. I mean, that could only pay for another 20 yachts and 100 more vacation homes.
Duane Harpet
Northwest side
Recipe for MAGA Soup
This new soup recipe is ready for the run up to November and was recently taste tested outside a Trump Rally.
Poll results are in:
59% said it had just the right amount of xenophobia, 41% said it needed more
80% said racism and antisemitism were almost perfect, 20% said it needed more
60% said it hit the mark with lies and deception, 40% said it needed more
The results are in! Soup is ready to hit the market. If you don’t want to make your own it will be sold in our tasteful carpetbagger gold cans and will cost $400 and be virtual. Order yours now!
Melvina Strijdonk
Oro Valley
Ability to pay
Re: the March 11 letter “’Fair share’.”
The current tax rates are based a progressive tax schedule. Progressive: as defined by Merriam-Webster 4b “increasing in rate as the base increases”. Not to be confused with Progressive Liberalism.
The Federal tax code is not based on a ‘fair share’ concept but on the ability to pay concept. The more a taxable entity earns or receives, the greater that entity’s ability to pay.
I would eliminate Federal ‘C’ Corp taxation and replace the individual tax rates from 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35% and 37% to 10%, 15%, 25%, 35% and 45% with roughly similar brackets. I would tax all income at the same rate with passive income taxed with a SS/MC premium similar to how self-employment income pays toward SS/MC. Tax territorial income only rather than global income. It’s too easy to ‘hide’ global income. Tax it when it comes in country.
James Abels
Midtown
Was there a missing pillar?
Re: the March 12 article “UA AD focused on ‘five priorities’.”
In the story of the “five pillars” of the future athletic program proposed by the new athletic director, Desireé Reed-Francois, the emphasis on academics seemed missing. Of the 100s of UA student-athletics only a handful make a future living as a professional, with few of them completing their degree. The remaining student-athletes have been given a much treasured paid scholarship and should be accountable to complete their degree. I thought “academics” should be one of the “pillars”. Without Title 9 and women’s sports, there would be a paucity of “student-athletes”.
Jay Gandolfi
Northeast side
How stupid is stupid?
So a guy gets found guilty of defamation by a jury, to the tune of $5 million. Then he cannot keep his mouth shut and is saddled with another $83 million in damages. The guy is still running his mouth. Stupid has a new personification.
Some people think this guy is presidential material. Never mind the stupid part, what about the lack of self control? Perhaps he thinks his supporters will pay for all of his poor behavior and bad acts. Who will pay if he becomes our president and pulls his stunts in the name of the USA?
Jeff Rayner
SaddleBrooke
Juan Ciscomani
This is to the people in Arizona Congressional District 6 regarding Congressman Juan Ciscomani.
You are constantly whining about the Congressman’s voting record. Juan Ciscomani is a Republican. You knew that when you elected him to office. Why are you complaining when he votes the Republican line in most cases? Did you expect him to morph into a Democrat after he was elected?
You got what you voted for and you’re stuck with him until the next election.
Al Gordon
East side
Councilman Kozachik
Thank you Councilman Kozachik!
On behalf of the Tucson animal-welfare community, I would like to thank you for being a tireless advocate for animals during your tenure on the Tucson City Council. Your strong voice against greyhound racing helped to pass legislation that shuttered one of the worst greyhound racing tracks in the United States, the Tucson Greyhound Park.
I commend you for continuing to speak out against puppy mills, and for supporting legislation that would require pet shops to only sell rescue animals.
Thank you for all your efforts to support the Tucson Wildlife Center and its mission to rescue and rehabilitate sick, injured and orphaned wildlife before they are returned to the wild.
The vast animal-welfare community in Tucson can’t thank you enough for all your hard work and commitment to animal rights.
Carmine Cardamone
Midtown
Medicare vs. MAGA
If Trump wins in November, he plans to make Medicare Advantage plans the default program for everyone who is newly eligible. Medicare Advantage is privatized insurance; unlike traditional Medicare, it puts an insurance company between you and your health treatments. Traditional Medicare has no such “middleman”; the government pays for your healthcare.
Medicare Advantage plans put profits before people, regularly denying coverage for essential treatments and services, forcing patients to forgo the care they need and putting their health and lives at risk. Meanwhile, private insurance CEOs rake in the money, at the expense of seniors and those with disabilities.
Over 65 million Americans rely on Medicare for their health care, and over 400,000 people become newly eligible each year. Their health and lives are at stake in the November election.
Voters need to tell Trump: No privatization of Medicare!
Jon Benda
Midtown
Priming for violence?
Trump made a big deal out of the nurse killed by a migrant, but another tragedy occurred recently in Olivette, Missouri. A young man shot and killed his mother when she came in the back door of their house because he thought she was an intruder. Yes, he had been a victim of crime as many of us have been. One has to wonder, however if the priming of the masses with violent rhetoric from the Trumplican faction hasn’t created a level of dangerous paranoia. Many studies have shown that people can be primed to think along certain lines. This is the basis for much of marketing. So when the leader of the Republican party screams bloody murder from the pulpit, you have to consider the ramifications on the populace. The truth is that Trump only cares about Trump, so this is just alligator tears.
Dan Pendergrass
West side
We’ll miss Kozachik
Steve Kozachik has set a high bar for public service in a City Council office. He took care of constituents and went well beyond that with imaginative solutions to many of the big problems of our day. And he answered his phone, promptly. Fond farewell.
Ford Burkhart
Midtown
Biden played “I don’t remember” card
Many people have read that Federal Prosecutor Hur did not indict President Biden on classified documents charges because of cognitive reasons, as in not recalling being Vice President. But I think Biden played the cognitive “I don’t remember” game to the hilt with Hur, and it worked. Hur appeared before the House of Representatives where portions of his report were read. Biden had informed his book writer of finding classified “stuff” downstairs, but did not remember saying that when being interviewed by Hur. Biden said he did not remember finding classified materials in his home after his Vice Presidency, and did not remember how classified documents about Afghanistan got into his garage. These are classic “I don’t remember” statements made by criminal suspects. I believe Hur, a seasoned federal prosecutor, fell for Biden’s cognitive drama act hook line and sinker. A performance worthy of an Oscar. Biden either has serious cognitive issues making him unfit to be President or he repeatedly lied to Hur. Which is it?
Ivan Stanski
Marana
- Gail Powell, Northwest side
While looking at today’s paper I thought of Anne Murray’s 1983 hit song “A little good news today”. Wow! Seems like things sure haven’t gotten better over the years and we sure could use some good news. I’m not holding my breath tho.
Gail Powell
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Haley Roberts, North side
From Joe Biden's Presidential inauguration speech on January 21, 2021, "We must end this uncivil war that pits red against blue, conservative versus liberal. We can do this if we open our souls instead of hardening our hearts." There was more "unifying" rhetoric from Biden that has proven to be hollow. He has done nothing but be uncivil and divide Americans, continually claiming that 70 million Republican voters pose a threat to our Democracy. No mention of Democrats' threat to Democracy trying to keep the leading Republican candidate off state ballots. Biden used the State of the Union speech not as a unifying voice for America, but as an angry campaign speech attacking Republicans and members of SCOTUS, who were in attendance. The liberal dominated news media was ecstatic as their cognitively challenged President appeared vigorous for a change. Maybe given a double dose of his memory medicine. Biden is the "Divider in Chief", and he is not a nice guy! Ask Navy, his until recently ignored 7th granddaughter.
Haley Roberts
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- James Nesci, East side
Britain’s Princess Catherine recently had to apologize for photo-shopping her family’s Mother’s Day portrait. Apparently she corrected a sweater, a zipper and her hair. What a shameful scandal! I’m sure glad I live in the U.S. where our leaders have never tried to pull the wool over our eyes!
James Nesci
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Paul Emmert, Marana
How many times do we need to remind Congressman Juan Ciscomani?
According to his latest constituent newsletter describing his impression of the President's State of the Union address: "Border security remains the top priority for Americans, yet President Biden provided no meaningful answers to a crisis of his own creation."
Juan, are you having a memory lapse? Why don't you mention the FACT that there is a Senate bipartisan bill that does, indeed, provide "meaningful answers" that is gathering dust because your proxy-leader-presidential candidate says don't consider it? In FACT, the President implored you, Juan, to pass this border security bill now. Did you forget that? Does the cat have your tongue when you write your nice newsletters? Or is it simple political expediency to leave out important information that your constituents demand and deserve?
There are over-the-counter medications that tout improved memory. I suggest you consider them.
Paul Emmert
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Judy J Gillies, Downtown
It comes as no surprise that Rep. Juan Ciscomani recently endorsed Donald Trump.
Rep. Ciscomani wants us to believe that he’s not an extremist, but his actions prove otherwise. He has been a steward for Donald Trump’s extremist policies that endanger our working class, reproductive rights, the Latino community, and the environment.
I’m disappointed but not surprised by Rep. Ciscomani’s endorsement of Donald Trump. You would think for a guy who likes to “hear out everyone,” Ciscomani would finally listen to the concerns of his constituents. Nope!
We don’t need his support of Trump. We need him to listen to the needs of his constituents across his district. We are tired of the photo-ops and the updates on his social media that don’t show us anything.
Rep. Ciscomani has failed his congressional district and Arizona by voting against us, siding with the ultra-wealthy, and becoming a full-blown extremist.
Judy J Gillies
Downtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Chris Sipp, Midtown
Majorie Tayler Greene reprehensible action at the SOTU shows she has no shame. Her exploitation of a murdered women in Georgia by a undocumented immigrant with “say her name” has me wanting to say to MTG “ say their names” after 50 people killed by a deranged gunman who was an American citizen in Las Vegas in 2017 or after 18 shot in Maine by a US army reservist or 10 people all African American murdered by homegrown gunman and racist. How do we protect our children in classrooms from their their classmates with guns?. So what are Trump republicans saying about gun shootings by American citizens besides thoughts and prayers ? According to soon to be a convicted felon Trump , we need to get over it , move on. They are not for sensible gun control, and now not even for immigration reform. They are hypocrites trying to sway public opinion for their own political power. Oh, and thoughts and prayers to the deceased Republican Party which is now the trump party.
Chris Sipp
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Margaret Scott, Midtown
In this contentious time, think about the beauty of the planet, the desert and the mountains, the rain forest, coral reefs, and ice sheets. Climate change threatens them all.
NPR reported that the oceans have borne the greatest burden of rising temperatures, and reefs may be the first ecosystem destroyed. Carbon dioxide from fossil fuels makes the water more acidic, a death sentence for the coral. Without urgent action to save our reefs, this living species will be gone by the end of the century, during our children’s lifetime.
The time for fossil fuels is over. The US and 200 other countries agreed to reduce fossil fuels for the first time in decades of UN climate talks. The Biden Administration has acted with $623 million in grants to fund EV charging stations and ports across the US. In Arizona, school districts will receive Clean Bus Grants to fund electric buses.
Beauty deserves care. Beauty deserves justice. Vote for Biden.
Margaret Scott
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Adnan Almaney, Southwest side
Since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, President Biden has supplied Israel with 2000-pound bombs, precision-guided bunker busters, Iron Dome interceptors, artillery shells, and ammunition, among others. These weapons have led to the slaughter of more than 30,000 Palestinians, many of whom are women and children. Lately, as if shaken awake from a stupor, President Biden has begun delivering food and water to those who have temporarily survived the genocide in which he has played a leading role. Question: Is President Biden’s latest humanitarian gesture a case of amnesia, delusion, denial, desperation to ingratiate himself to the “Uncommitted” voters, or a typical example of political moral depravity?
Adnan Almaney
Southwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jim Taylor, East side
Has anyone also noticed that the rich hide their wealth to avoid paying taxes, rather than just paying their fair share?
Consider how paying taxes actually impacts those who have low or average income, compared to the the wealthy. In 2024, if your annual income is $35,000 and you’re married filing jointly, you’ll be in the 12% tax bracket, leaving you with $30,800 to spend as you wish. If you make $350,000 and you’re married filing jointly, you’ll be in the 24% bracket, and you’ll have to somehow scrape by on the measly $266,000 you’ll have remaining. Compare the after tax remainders, and then tell me you’re not fortunate. Of course, all of this is before exemptions, which again, exponentially, favor those with higher income.
Sure, the higher the income, the greater the tax. That’s only fair. Rather than whining about those who have less than you, be thankful that you can contribute more to the greater good.
Jim Taylor
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- LEADAWN ANDERTON, Southwest side
We, the People, accept the results of our elections. Why? Because there are so many safeguards
in place, we know we can. Decentralization of the voting process using many well-trained paid
and volunteer poll workers provides numerous protections in the process, making the chance of
significant fraud virtually impossible.
Of the 3,400,000 votes cast in Arizona’s 2020 election, there were 9 confirmed cases of voter fraud, and the results were adjusted accordingly.
Voter registration requires a social security number confirming your citizenship and age. If you
vote by mail, your signature is verified with signature already on file with the State. If you vote
in person, you must present a government issued photo ID or 2 other forms of ID to verify your
identity and address. The tabulation machines are calibrated and tested to ensure accuracy.
We must encourage all eligible voters to register and vote. We owe it to each other to be active
participants in Our Democracy.
LEADAWN ANDERTON
Southwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ke Chiang Hsieh, Midtown
“Pulling oneself up by one’s own bootstraps” defies physics and when applied to life denies reality. Hard work is necessary for success, but never sufficient. Has anyone succeeded in anything without other’s help? Without our parents or guardians, teachers, family, friends, communities, institutions, etc., could we have made it? We benefit from each other through public services: schools, roads, sanitation, police, fire, etc., all provided by dedicated competent specialists. To enable them to excel in benefitting us all requires adequate taxation.
Graduated taxation is fair sharing of wealth to provide universal services in a civilized society. A flat-rate tax could destroy a minimum-wage worker’s family but won’t scratch a superrich, while diminishing the services needed, especially for the poor. Sharing wealth to benefit the whole was a Christian practice (Acts 2:44-46). Love your neighbor as yourself, pull others up by voting for strong graduated taxation!
Ke Chiang Hsieh
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Sarah Roberts, West side
- Updated
Thank you, Tim Steller, for writing this column! It really validates what many of us who live in LD 20 are thinking. Alma Hernandez is the Rep in my district though I did not vote for her and I am NOT okay with her approach. She does not represent the views of many of her constituents. She displays the flag of Israel on her desk in the AZ State House! Israel is an apartheid state, well documented by international human rights organizations. Israel has been committing genocide and ethnic cleansing in Gaza for the past 5 months. Now, Gazans are dying of starvation, with Israeli forces killing people waiting for food. And, Hernandez has the gall to leave the AZ legislature in the middle of the session taking other legislators with her on a one-sided trip to bolster support for Israel. Shame on you, Alma!
Sarah Roberts
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Putin endorses Biden for President
I continually read letters posted by the Star about Trump and Republicans supporting Putin. Well, guess what, Democrat readers, Vladimir Putin has just endorsed Joe Biden for President. He prefers Biden over Trump. Why? Because he considers Trump too “unpredictable.” Maybe the reason he never invaded Ukraine under Trump was for fear of what he might do. No such fear of Biden, as Putin invaded Ukraine twice with him in the White House. Putin knows that Biden is in cognitive decline, and if that 3 a.m. call came into the White House, Biden likely would not remember that he is the President. As for House Republicans not passing legislation to fund weapons for Ukraine, all along Biden has not provided them with the most modern weapons to win the war, but rather with just enough capability to have a stalemate, which is where we are at now. Biden has feared that Ukraine’s winning the war might result in Putin using nuclear weapons. Thus, Putin for Biden! A new “Russia collusion.”
Ardel Francis
Northwest side
Good news
While looking at the paper, I thought of Anne Murray’s 1983 hit song “A little good news” today. Wow! Seems like things sure haven’t gotten better over the years and we sure could use some good news. I’m not holding my breath though.
Gail Powell
Northwest side
President Biden, the ‘Divider in Chief’
From Joe Biden’s Presidential inauguration speech on Jan. 21, 2021, “We must end this uncivil war that pits red against blue, conservative versus liberal. We can do this if we open our souls instead of hardening our hearts.” There was more “unifying” rhetoric from Biden that has proven to be hollow. He has done nothing but be uncivil and divide Americans, continually claiming that 70 million Republican voters pose a threat to our Democracy. No mention of Democrats’ threat to Democracy trying to keep the leading Republican candidate off state ballots. Biden used the State of the Union speech not as a unifying voice for America but as an angry campaign speech attacking Republicans and members of SCOTUS, who were in attendance. The liberal-dominated news media was ecstatic as their cognitively challenged President appeared vigorous for a change. Maybe he was given a double dose of his memory medicine. Biden is the “Divider in Chief,” and he is not a nice guy! Ask Navy, his until recently ignored seventh granddaughter.
Haley Roberts
North side
Royal disaster
Britain’s Princess Catherine recently had to apologize for photoshopping her family’s Mother’s Day portrait. Apparently, she corrected a sweater, a zipper and her hair. What a shameful scandal! I’m sure glad I live in the U.S., where our leaders have never tried to pull the wool over our eyes!
James Nesci
East side
Thank you, Steve!
I would like to thank Councilmember Steve Kozachik for his wonderful service to the Tucson community the last 15 years.
Tucson’s loss will be Pima County’s gain. He’ll definitely be missed.
Matt Somers
Midtown
Contributing to the greater good
Re: the March 11 letter “’Fair share’.”
Has anyone also noticed that the rich hide their wealth to avoid paying taxes, rather than just paying their fair share?
Consider how paying taxes actually impacts those who have low or average income, compared to the wealthy. In 2024, if your annual income is $35,000 and you’re married filing jointly, you’ll be in the 12% tax bracket, leaving you with $30,800 to spend as you wish. If you make $350,000 and you’re married filing jointly, you’ll be in the 24% bracket, and you’ll have to somehow scrape by on the measly $266,000 you’ll have remaining. Compare the after-tax remainders, and then tell me you’re not fortunate. Of course, all of this is before exemptions, which again, exponentially, favor those with higher income.
Sure, the higher the income, the greater the tax. That’s only fair. Rather than whining about those who have less than you, be thankful that you can contribute more to the greater good.
Jim Taylor
East side
Integrity of elections
We, the People, accept the results of our elections. Why? Because there are so many safeguards in place, we know we can. Decentralization of the voting process using many well-trained paid and volunteer poll workers provides numerous protections in the process, making the chance of significant fraud virtually impossible.
Of the 3,400,000 votes cast in Arizona’s 2020 election, there were nine confirmed cases of voter fraud, and the results were adjusted accordingly.
Voter registration requires a social security number confirming your citizenship and age. If you vote by mail, your signature is verified with signature already on file with the State. If you vote in person, you must present a government-issued photo ID or two other forms of ID to verify your identity and address. The tabulation machines are calibrated and tested to ensure accuracy.
We must encourage all eligible voters to register and vote. We owe it to each other to be active participants in Our Democracy.
Leadawn Anderton
Southwest side
City Councilman Kozachik to resign
He can’t resign soon enough. He doesn’t care about his constituents but he will bend over backwards for wealthy developers. The sad thing is that for the next year, we will be stuck with some political hack picked by the mayor and the rest of the City Council, none of whom even live in Ward 6. It is time to change the city charter and have replacement council members chosen through special elections. Doing otherwise is undemocratic. And we need to have ward-only elections and have them chosen every two years. It is time to take back control of our city from political elites.
David Moore
Midtown
Ciscomani endorses wrong candidate
It comes as no surprise that Rep. Juan Ciscomani recently endorsed Donald Trump.
Rep. Ciscomani wants us to believe that he’s not an extremist, but his actions prove otherwise. He has been a steward for Donald Trump’s extremist policies that endanger our working class, reproductive rights, the Latino community, and the environment.
I’m disappointed but not surprised by Rep. Ciscomani’s endorsement of Donald Trump. You would think for a guy who likes to “hear out everyone,” Ciscomani would finally listen to the concerns of his constituents. Nope!
We don’t need his support of Trump. We need him to listen to the needs of his constituents across his district. We are tired of the photo-ops and the updates on his social media that don’t show us anything.
Rep. Ciscomani has failed his congressional district and Arizona by voting against us, siding with the ultra-wealthy, and becoming a full-blown extremist.
Judy J Gillies
Downtown
Say their names
Majorie Taylor Greene’s reprehensible action at the SOTU shows she has no shame. Her exploitation of a murdered women in Georgia by an undocumented immigrant with “say her name” has me wanting to say to MTG “say their names,” after 50 people killed by a deranged gunman who was an American citizen in Las Vegas in 2017. Or after 18 were. shot in Maine by a US army reservist. Or 10 people, all African American, murdered by a homegrown gunman and racist. How do we protect our children in classrooms from their classmates with guns? So what are Trump Republicans saying about gun shootings by American citizens besides thoughts and prayers? According to the soon-to-be-convicted-felon Trump, we need to get over it, move on. They are not for sensible gun control, and now not even for immigration reform. They are hypocrites trying to sway public opinion for their own political power. Oh, and thoughts and prayers to the deceased Republican Party, which is now the Trump party.
Chris Sipp
Midtown
Ciscomani’s incredibly shrinking memory
How many times do we need to remind Congressman Juan Ciscomani?
According to his latest constituent newsletter describing his impression of the President’s State of the Union address: “Border security remains the top priority for Americans, yet President Biden provided no meaningful answers to a crisis of his own creation.”
Juan, are you having a memory lapse? Why don’t you mention the FACT that there is a Senate bipartisan bill that does, indeed, provide “meaningful answers” that is gathering dust because your proxy-leader-presidential candidate says don’t consider it? In FACT, the President implored you, Juan, to pass this border security bill now. Did you forget that? Does the cat have your tongue when you write your nice newsletters? Or is it simple political expediency to leave out important information that your constituents demand and deserve?
There are over-the-counter medications that tout improved memory. I suggest you consider them.
Paul Emmert
Marana
Israel shouldn’t be legislators’ top priority
Re: the March 10 article “Israel shouldn’t be top priority for AZ legislators.”
Thank you, Tim Steller, for writing this column. It really validates what many of us who live in LD 20 are thinking. Alma Hernandez is the Rep. in my district, though I did not vote for her and I am NOT OK with her approach. She does not represent the views of many of her constituents. She displays the flag of Israel on her desk in the AZ State House! Israel is an apartheid state, well documented by international human rights organizations. Israel has been committing genocide and ethnic cleansing in Gaza for the past 5 months. Now, Gazans are dying of starvation, with Israeli forces killing people waiting for food. And, Hernandez has the gall to leave the AZ legislature in the middle of the session, taking other legislators with her on a one-sided trip to bolster support for Israel. Shame on you, Alma!
Sarah Roberts
West side
Biden delivers bombs, then aid to victims
Since the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7, President Biden has supplied Israel with 2,000-pound bombs, precision-guided bunker busters, Iron Dome interceptors, artillery shells, and ammunition, among others. These weapons have led to the slaughter of more than 30,000 Palestinians, many of whom are women and children. Lately, as if shaken awake from a stupor, President Biden has begun delivering food and water to those who have temporarily survived the genocide in which he has played a leading role. Question: Is President Biden’s latest humanitarian gesture a case of amnesia, delusion, denial, desperation to ingratiate himself to the “uncommitted” voters, or a typical example of political moral depravity?
Adnan Almaney
Southwest side
Strong graduated taxation benefits all
“Pulling oneself up by one’s own bootstraps” defies physics and, when applied to life, denies reality. Hard work is necessary for success but never sufficient. Has anyone succeeded in anything without other’s help? Without our parents or guardians, teachers, family, friends, communities, institutions, etc., could we have made it? We benefit from each other through public services: schools, roads, sanitation, police, fire, etc., all provided by dedicated, competent specialists. To enable them to excel in benefitting us all requires adequate taxation.
Graduated taxation is fair sharing of wealth to provide universal services in a civilized society. A flat-rate tax could destroy a minimum-wage worker’s family but won’t scratch a super-rich while diminishing the services needed, especially for the poor. Sharing wealth to benefit the whole was a Christian practice (Acts 2:44-46). Love your neighbor as yourself, pull others up by voting for strong graduated taxation!
Ke Chiang Hsieh
Midtown
Think about beauty
In this contentious time, think about the beauty of the planet, the desert and the mountains, the rainforest, coral reefs, and ice sheets. Climate change threatens them all.
NPR reported that the oceans have borne the greatest burden of rising temperatures, and reefs may be the first ecosystem destroyed. Carbon dioxide from fossil fuels makes the water more acidic, a death sentence for the coral. Without urgent action to save our reefs, this living species will be gone by the end of the century, during our children’s lifetime.
The time for fossil fuels is over. The US and 200 other countries agreed to reduce fossil fuels for the first time in decades of UN climate talks. The Biden Administration has acted with $623 million in grants to fund EV charging stations and ports across the U.S. In Arizona, school districts will receive Clean Bus Grants to fund electric buses.
Beauty deserves care. Beauty deserves justice. Vote for Biden.
Margaret Scott
Midtown
- Mary Price, Foothills
I am astonished by our country’s current focus on individuals, such as the Presidential Candidate. Yes, to be an effective leader, the President must have character, vision, and competence. But success also requires teamwork. I learned this from my father (a real Vice Admiral, U. S. Navy, Retired). He knew that the success of any operation depends on teamwork at multiple scales – from crews of single ships, to ships within a task force, to fleets, to the entire Navy. Any leader – whether my father or the President – is effective only with the backing of a competent, multi-level team rowing in the same direction. So please, let’s focus not just on individual candidates, but also on the vision, character, and expertise of the teams they assemble. Team Bidenocrat has a known record of moving in a direction consistent with fundamental values of our democracy. Team Trumpublican has no coherent platform other than to do whatever is needed to stay in power.
Mary Price
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Sheldon Clark, Vail
The recent guest opinion by Representatives Ciscomani and Sherrill regarding the introduction of the HEADWAY Act (Head Start Education and Development Workforce Advancement and Yield Act) is laudable. Leveraging resources is a great idea. Their op-ed cited the National Head Start Association (NHSA)who the Representatives claimed attributed the classroom vacancies, in part, “to staff shortages”. Arguably a more significant cause also posted by the NHSA is the House Appropriations Committee's proposed $750,000,000 reduction from the current FY23 funding a cut that "...will prevent roughly 80,000 children and their families from accessing Head Start and Early Head Start’s high-quality life-changing services."
Representative Ciscomani -did you also advocate for adequate Head Start funding?
Sheldon Clark
Vail
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Kent Blumenthal, Green Valley
Attempts by anti-Israel, pro-Palestinian sympathizers to coerce Tucson’s City Council to adopt a Resolution for an unconditional ceasefire in Gaza continues. The City Council must not be bullied into this. Rather, it should focus on Tucson matters.
I witnessed the illiberal anti-Israel lobby insist on a ‘ceasefire now.’ Few anti-Israel speakers acknowledged the October 7 atrocities when Hamas terrorists murdered and raped more than 1,200 people, with 240 kidnapped (130 still being held captive). Hamas violated five previous ceasefires, bringing more death and destruction, and vows to destroy Israel. Bullying the City Council is bad enough. Even worse is their obvious contempt for democratic institutions and freedoms that allow their voices to be heard. During the Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, several ‘ceasefire now’ proponents remained seated, disrespecting a Christian minister and the American flag. While Israel’s just war to remove Hamas terrorists from Gaza continues, democratic institutions in America are under threat.
Kent Blumenthal
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ted Frohling, Northeast side
I’m getting very tired of the point making from both sides of the political spectrum. The latest example is MTG at the state of the union yelling about the unfortunate murder of the nursing student by the illegal alien. Would she have interrupted if the perpetrator was an American?
Ted Frohling
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Kent Blumenthal, Green Valley
Attempts by anti-Israel and pro-Palestinian sympathizers to coerce Tucson’s City Council to adopt a Resolution for an unconditional ceasefire in Gaza continues. The City Council must not be bullied into this. Rather, it should focus on Tucson matters.
I saw how illiberal the anti-Israel lobby is to insist on a ‘ceasefire now.’ Few acknowledged the October 7 atrocities when Hamas terrorists murdered and raped more than 1,200 people in Israel with 240 kidnapped (130 still being held captive). Hamas violated five previous ceasefires, bringing more death and destruction, and vows to destroy Israel. Bullying the City Council is bad enough. Even worse is their obvious contempt for democratic institutions and freedoms that allow their voices to be heard. During the Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, several ‘ceasefire now’ proponents remained seated, showing no respect for a Christian minister or the American flag. While Israel’s just war to remove Hamas terrorists from Gaza continues, democratic institutions in America are under threat.
Kent Blumenthal
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Doug Pickrell, Midtown
On 2/21 I wrote an op-ed which was critical of Representative Ciscomani for supporting Speaker Mike Johnson,
who is obstructing aid to Ukraine and border security. Johnson opposes the former and is intent on preserving the latter as a campaign issue for Donald Trump. Contrary to David Eppihimer's insinuation on 3/10, I did not coordinate this op-ed with others.
I have written numerous times to Ciscomani's office. In my first few letters I repeatedly asked Ciscomani to explain why he voted to defund the Internal Revenue Service, or at least give me a reference to some written justification.
I never received a reply. More recently I begged Ciscomani to support aid for Ukraine. In reply I received a survey seeking my opinion concerning aid for Ukraine.
Probably like Eppihimer, I care about issues. It is apparently pointless for me to write to Ciscomani, so I write to the paper.
Doug Pickrell
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Barney Popkin, Foothills
As an observer of history and current events, it occurs to me that George Washington showed no interest in sending humanitarian aid the British, Abraham Lincoln didn’t aid the southern breakaway states during the Civil War, and FDR and Harry Truman definitely did not support aid to Nazi Germany, Imperial Japan, or Fascist Italy. Yet now in the 21 century, there’s an enormous movement to support Palestinian terrorist! How can this be explained? Love they enemy as thyself? Do unto others as you would have them do unto you? Or old fashion modernized anti-Semitism?
Barney Popkin
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David ben Avram, Marana
Re: Gaza woes, 10 March letter by Ms Furrer. The Man was explaining “this is not food to feed a family” referencing MREs (meals ready to eat). Some time ago when I was in the army MREs came packaged 24 to a box, two series of 12 meals. Of those 12 meals, 9 were made of pork products. I had to choose from the other three. Gazans do not have that choice. Keeping kosher is the same for Muslims as for Jews. Oh, the Gazans will eat the pork meals as they are starving. It would be easy to say someone was not thinking, dropping MREs. However, MREs are the only way to feed the masses in the shortest time. Great letter Elizabeth.
David ben Avram
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Debra Mantecon, East side
The good ole US of A is planning to build a floating pier in Gaza. Why aren't the fellow Muslim neighbor/states building piers and providing aid? After all, this neighborhood contains some of the richest countries in the world. Why aren't these wealthy neighbors opening up their borders to Gazans needing aid, shelter, food, etc.? The Saudi border is 200 miles from Gaza while the USA is almost 7,000 miles away! Not a rhetorical question but an honest to goodness inquiry.
Debra Mantecon
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- TOM MCGORRAY, Northwest side
Joe Biden was at it again with his "Fate of the Union" speech'. He said "This is a moment to speak the truth, to bury lies," It turned out to be a moment to speak lies and bury the truth.
His speech included misleading claims (lies) on inflation, crime, clean energy investments, wages and other subjects.
Biden boasted that under his leadership “wages keep going up.” Wages are down when adjusted for inflation.
Biden highlighted recent decreases in violent crime, but WDC, and Chicago know differently. The violent crime rates in the US are higher than they were in 2019.
Biden made it sound as if 8.2% was the standard tax rate billionaires pay today. It’s not: The actual average tax rate the top 1% of taxpayers pay is more than three times what Biden said: 25.6%, according to IRS data from 2019.
In summary, the border Is secure, the economy is great, crime is non -existent, and gas is dirt cheap. Way to go Pinocchio.
TOM MCGORRAY
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Rick Cohn, West side
Katie Britt's rising star has transformed into a meteorite.
Rick Cohn
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Steve Rasmussen, Foothills
So, once again we see Trump’s veneration of Orban, as seen by Donald’s invitation for him to visit Mar-a-Lago. Trump views Orban as a template for his future leadership. But what kind of leadership is that? Orban is hostile to immigration, even though Hungary has not had a problem with that issue. He believes in the “replacement theory”. He has cracked down on their free press by having his cronies control it. The elections in his country are now a sham. Religious institutions are now subject to his control, with some clergy being placed on his enemies list. Orban rules by cruelty and fear. He has stifled dissent in his nation. He has changed the courts to favor his positions by replacing judges. He has pressured businesses to align themselves with his political philosophy. If this sounds like fascism, you would be correct. Trump’s obsession with this sick man shows a similar sickness in Trump. Trump prefers fascism because it feeds his grandiose self-image.
Steve Rasmussen
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Mary Zimmerman, SaddleBrooke
It's disconcerting that only about 31% of the American voting public knows what Trump has in mind for his next term.
It's hard to believe that they know nothing about plans to arrest his political enemies, end reproductive rights, use the military to quell protest, and shred the Constitution. Then there is the matter of protecting our NATO allies. He has said that he would allow Putin to do "whatever the Hell he wants." Why is anyone supporting this madman? He has been found liable for sexual assault. He owes millions of dollars in fines. He has 91 criminal indictments. Most noteworthy, he tried to formulate a coup to overthrow the government. Is this really what you want for a President?
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Thomas Wenzel, East side
According to statistica, the percent of Americans identifying as non-binary has been increasing over the generations. In 2022, the percent of Generation z identifying as non-binary was 19.7 percent. Generation y ( or millinials) was 11.2 percent. Generation x was 3.3. Baby boomers was 2.7 and the silent Generation was 1.7 percent. There has been a great debate since the mid 1800's about how much of a person's characteristics we are born with and how much are acquired through interaction with our environment.. My question is: Do we have a higher percentage of nonbinary people because of changes to our genes caused by changes in our environment? Or do we have a higher percentage of non- binaries because of influencing from celebrities and social media personalities?
Thomas Wenzel
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Merle McPheeters, Midtown
The MAGA types say they wnt a strongman (one word)--an authoritarian who rules unilaterally. This genuinely puzzles me.
I would much prefer a strong man (two words--to lead our country. A man who is not insecure and boastful. A man who tells the truth. A man who admits a mistake. A man who is moral and doesn't cheat on his wife or in business. A man who doesn't bully or name call. A man wjho is ethical and does the right thing even when no one is watching. A man who serves militarily in time of need. A man who admits defeat and accepts responsibility for it.
My faith in the US electorate has been shaken by the millions who cast their votes for a strongman and not a strong man. I hope that changes this November and we don't elect a morally and intellecrtually bankrupt ego maniac to lead our country.
Merle McPheeters
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jack Graef, SaddleBrooke
Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts managed to elicit a “unanimous” vote on the Court's 14th Amendment ruling, but it was unanimously wrong because it ignored the central truth, Trump’s active engagement in an insurrection. The appearance of unanimity is misleading, despite reports of internal disagreement among the Justices. Roberts’ reportedly preeminent but impossible goal is to restore respect for the Court, but respect is earned by respectable behavior, not like its rulings on Roe, or the 14th Amendment, or Clarence Thomas’ ethical lapses, or Thomas’ conflict of interest manifested by his wife’s overt trump politicking. Yet, there sits SCOTUS, unwilling to confront or issue rulings unfavorable to trump. And there sits Thomas, unapologetic, unethical, blithely refusing to recuse himself from issues on which he has no business ruling, Trump cheers while the Country endures the legacy of Roberts’ Supreme Court.
Jack Graef
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David E. Leon, Vail
Congresswoman Greene blundered again. She made herself look stupid!! This woman claimed, Sandy Hook never happened!! Yet, she was worried about the woman killed in Georgia by a undocumented. Yet called Sandy Hook a ploy by Democrat's against bearing arm's. She agreed that child actors were used!! How sad the whole world saw this clown behaved at the ,State Of The Union address. Greene claims to be a graduate of U of Georgia. Her major idiotic lies! My Vietnam buddy in Australia watched her, " Performance " that night. Via Laptop.
David E. Leon
Vail
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Duane Harpet, Northwest side
Actually, I think the writer is noticing the wrong people discussing fair share taxes. Most of us wonder why billionaires who would have to pay millions in taxes seems to feel they will be going broke with only 950 million dollars left. I mean, that could only pay for another twenty yachts and 100 more vacation home.
Duane Harpet
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Tucson City Council bullied on ‘cease-fire now’
Attempts by anti-Israel and pro-Palestinian sympathizers to coerce Tucson’s City Council to adopt a resolution for an unconditional cease-fire in Gaza continues. The City Council must not be bullied into this. Rather, it should focus on Tucson matters.
I saw how illiberal the anti-Israel lobby is to insist on a ‘cease-fire now.’ Few acknowledged the Oct. 7 atrocities when Hamas terrorists murdered and raped more than 1,200 people in Israel, with 240 kidnapped (130 still being held captive). Hamas violated five previous cease-fires, bringing more death and destruction, and vows to destroy Israel. Bullying the City Council is bad enough. Even worse is their obvious contempt for democratic institutions and freedoms that allow their voices to be heard. During the Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, several ‘cease-fire now’ proponents remained seated, showing no respect for a Christian minister or the American flag. While Israel’s just war to remove Hamas terrorists from Gaza continues, democratic institutions in America are under threat.
Kent Blumenthal
Green Valley
Fare-free transportation
The concept of collecting fares on the bus or streetcar is outdated, inefficient, sometimes confusing, and surprisingly expensive. It creates conflict that drivers have to manage and a psychological barrier for new riders. We aren’t thinking creatively enough about how to pay fares and what counts as paying a fare. The “fare“ could be a surcharge added to your bar tab, an extra dollar or 2 on your hotel bill for a “visitor mobility pass” or a small fee added to our water and trash fees and treated as another utility. I would pay gladly, even if it were voluntary on my bill. If we broaden the idea of what is a fare and identify sources for more of us to contribute to those fares, then we are all paying into the system. I am more likely to use something I am already paying for, especially if all I have to do is walk on board.
Tim Warfield
Downtown
Thank you, Lady Wildcat basketball!
The UA women's basketball team has been fraught with so many obstacles this year, i.e., the loss of players due to injury, transfers, and a few players leaving the team to pursue their academic dreams, but they are not quitters! These seven women have stepped up at every game and given their everything to this team, and despite losing some, they left everything on the court every single time! Kudos to seniors Isis Beh, Helena Pueyo, and Esmery Martinez for your contributions to this fantastic team. You will be missed. As season-ticket holders we look forward to next season with great excitement for the team, especially with all of the great talent on board for the upcoming season. Coach Adia Barnes is top-shelf and will undoubtedly take next year's team even further. If you haven't seen them, you have missed out! Get your tickets now!
Terri Hicks
Northwest side
Robbins’ missing zero
While I perhaps should laud UA President Robbins for his voluntary 10% pay cut, I feel there should have been an additional zero added to the cut and he should be fired. While some have defended the dollar value of grants the university has attracted, how much really was due to his leadership versus the pre-existing excellence of this top research university? The significant deficit he incurred through poor decision-making in purchasing a low-quality, overpriced online program shows poor diligence and decision-making. The buck stops with the guy at the top, not just with the Board of Regents.
Donna Strain
Southeast side
Ciscomani — Investing in Head Start?
Re: the March 8 article "Investing in educators is investment in students."
The recent guest opinion by Representatives Ciscomani and Sherrill regarding the introduction of the HEADWAY Act (Head Start Education and Development Workforce Advancement and Yield Act) is laudable. Leveraging resources is a great idea. Their op-ed cited the National Head Start Association (NHSA), who the Representatives claimed attributed the classroom vacancies, in part, “to staff shortages.” Arguably a more significant cause also posted by the NHSA is the House Appropriations Committee's proposed $750,000,000 reduction from the current FY23 funding a cut that "... will prevent roughly 80,000 children and their families from accessing Head Start and Early Head Start’s high-quality life-changing services."
Representative Ciscomani — did you also advocate for adequate Head Start funding?
Sheldon Clark
Vail
Choosing our leaders
I am astonished by our country’s current focus on individuals, such as the presidential candidate. Yes, to be an effective leader, the President must have character, vision, and competence. But success also requires teamwork. I learned this from my father (a Vice Admiral, U. S. Navy, Retired). He knew that the success of any operation depends on teamwork at multiple scales — from crews of single ships, to ships within a task force, to fleets, to the entire Navy. Any leader — whether my father or the President — is effective only with the backing of a competent, multi-level team rowing in the same direction. So please, let’s focus not just on individual candidates but also on the vision, character, and expertise of the teams they assemble. Team Bidenocrat has a known record of moving in a direction consistent with fundamental values of our democracy. Team Trumpublican has no coherent platform other than to do whatever is needed to stay in power.
Mary Price
Foothills
Tired of the point-making by both camps
I’m getting very tired of the point-making from both sides of the political spectrum. The latest example is MTG at the State of the Union yelling about the unfortunate murder of the nursing student by an illegal alien. Would she have interrupted if the perpetrator was an American?
Ted Frohling
Northeast side
New baby elephant
Re: the March 9 article "Tucson newest baby elephant born Friday."
It was heartwarming to see the photo and article about Reid Park Zoo's new baby elephant on the front page. It has been a long wait of almost two years for this new "ambassador" for African Elephants to arrive. With poaching continuing in their native habitats, each birth is a triumph of survival.
Many thanks to the Reid Park Zoo staff and veterinary care team. Many volunteers helped to monitor expectant mother, Semba, during her long pregnancy, as well.
We will look forward to watching the herd welcome their new arrival at our next visit to the zoo.
Marlene C. Skinner
Southwest side
Give us sports fans a break
Re: the March 9 article "UA's Robbins gets deficit down to $176,868,400."
After reading Michael Chihak’s last three opinion pieces, I had an unstoppable urge to join the Wildcat Club. Robbins' biggest mistakes did not involve the athletic department.
Loraine Whitmore
Midtown
Why support Palestinian terrorists?
As an observer of history and current events, it occurs to me that George Washington showed no interest in sending humanitarian aid to the British, Abraham Lincoln didn’t aid the southern breakaway states during the Civil War, and FDR and Harry Truman definitely did not support aid to Nazi Germany, Imperial Japan, or Fascist Italy. Yet now, in the 21st century, there’s an enormous movement to support Palestinian terrorists! How can this be explained? Love thy enemy as thyself? Do unto others as you would have them do unto you? Or old-fashioned modernized anti-Semitism?
Barney Popkin
Foothills
Gaza woes revisited
Re: the March 10 letter "Gaza woes."
The man was explaining “this is not food to feed a family” referencing MREs (meals ready to eat). Some time ago, when I was in the army, MREs came packaged 24 to a box, two series of 12 meals. Of those 12 meals, 9 were made of pork products. I had to choose from the other three. Gazans do not have that choice. Keeping kosher is the same for Muslims as for Jews. Oh, the Gazans will eat the pork meals as they are starving. It would be easy to say someone was not thinking, dropping MREs. However, MREs are the only way to feed the masses in the shortest time. Great letter.
David ben Avram
Marana
Shame on you
To the person who damaged my car while it was parked at Reid Park near the De Meester Center on Saturday, March 9 and left without leaving a note — shame on you! You scraped my rear passenger side bumper, leaving several small holes in it. You must have noticed doing it as it would have been right outside your driver's window. Your failure to stop and take responsibility is selfish, rude, inconsiderate and actually against the law. Damaging a parked vehicle and not leaving a conspicuous note with your contact information is a Class 3 Misdemeanor in Arizona. I am now left to bear the cost of your boorish behavior myself. My only consolation is that I believe that everyone gets their due reckoning when they eventually arrive at the Pearly Gates — that is, if they have not gone the "other way" already.
Jane O'Regan
Northeast side
University of Arizona Musical Theatre program
This letter is intended more as a query, rather than an opinion.
I recently read in The Arizona Daily Star that The Marroney Theatre on The UA campus had recently had a very expensive renovation and makeover.
This theatre is the home of UA Musical Theatre and Dramatic Arts productions.
I also read recently in The Arizona Daily Star that the UA Is eliminating the Musical Theatre program entirely.
I am wondering why this expensive renovation was done for a theatre which will no longer be used.
If anyone out there has an answer to this query, I would love to hear it.
Opinionwise, I think it is an outright shame that UA is eliminating this outstanding musical theatre program. Every show I have seen there has been absolutely outstanding and is also very affordable to the general public.
Daniel Egan
East side
Imagined conspiracy of anti-Ciscomani letters
Re: the Feb. 21 article "Johnson and Ciscomani should both be sidelined" and the March 10 letter "Juan Ciscomani."
On Feb. 21 I wrote an op-ed which was critical of Representative Ciscomani for supporting Speaker Mike Johnson who is obstructing aid to Ukraine and border security. Johnson opposes the former and is intent on preserving the latter as a campaign issue for Donald Trump. Contrary to the letter writers insinuation on March 10, I did not coordinate this op-ed with others.
I have written numerous times to Ciscomani's office. In my first few letters I repeatedly asked Ciscomani to explain why he voted to defund the Internal Revenue Service or at least give me a reference to some written justification.
I never received a reply. More recently I begged Ciscomani to support aid for Ukraine. In reply, I received a survey seeking my opinion concerning aid for Ukraine.
Probably like the letter writer, I care about issues. It is apparently pointless for me to write to Ciscomani, so I write to the paper.
Doug Pickrell
Midtown
It's not just about abortion
While waiting outside the library one day recently, I listened to what was being said at the anti-abortion table. I heard these words: "This government isn't legitimate," "We the People are the government," "militia," "We're going to take down DC," "God is the boss." Good grief! So, I guess it's not just about abortion anymore.
Mel Strijdonk
Oro Valley
Role model
A recent letter lamented a lack of civility, along with disrespect, name-calling, sarcasm and lack of empathy for differing viewpoints in letters to the editor. Perhaps these writers are simply following Donald Trump's lead. Trump is the grand master of nastiness, name-calling, sarcasm, belittling words, disrespectful language, threats, and verbal rudeness and crudeness. His devotees love this. He has made such a nasty communication style mainstream and acceptable, helped along by the non-stop media coverage of his poisonous words and personality. It's totally predictable that this way of expression has been adopted by many. " Just sayin'..."
Deb Klumpp
Oro Valley
Gaza Pier
The good ole US of A is planning to build a floating pier in Gaza. Why aren't the fellow Muslim neighbor/states building piers and providing aid? After all, this neighborhood contains some of the richest countries in the world. Why aren't these wealthy neighbors opening up their borders to Gazans needing aid, shelter, food, etc.? The Saudi border is 200 miles from Gaza, while the USA is almost 7,000 miles away! Not a rhetorical question but an honest-to-goodness inquiry.
Debra Mantecon
East side
- Lynne Hudson, Northwest side
First-term Alabama Senator Katie Britt gave the Republican response to President Biden’s State of the Union speech. She was a good choice for the brand: young, attractive, articulate, and a model of family values. Her response was true to the brand as well. She painted an emotional and persuasive picture of a failed Biden presidency, but one that was also inaccurate and disingenuous. Her solution, too, was true to the brand. No newcomers are needed here. We are equipped to rebuild this country by virtue of our ancestry. Our gritty forefathers built this country. We will succeed, she said, because “we know their stories.” I wonder what stories our grandchildren will know if their textbooks are rewritten to erase uncomfortable truths. Will the arc of the moral universe bend toward justice if injustice is hidden from history?
Lynne Hudson
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bruce Gary, Sierra Vista
The fault, dear Mitch McConnell, is not in our stars. But in ourselves, that we are underlings. Shakespeare speaks to all generations.
Bruce Gary
Sierra Vista
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Thomas Wenzel, East side
Has anyone noticed that the people calling for the rich to pay their fair share of taxes either pays little or no taxes or receives government benefits?
Thomas Wenzel
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Alan Barreuther, Foothills
Honerable Senator Kirsten Sinema, "Good Night, Good Luck, and Good Riddance."
Alan Barreuther
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Neil Norton, Oro Valley
What is taking place in the Middle East is truely tragic. I don't understand why the blame seems to placed on Israel. We can't forget that Hamas is a governing body just like Israel. The one main difference is Israels army wear uniforms where Hamas wears everyday clothes and hide amongst those they govern. Hamas was elected into power by the people of Gaza. Hamas has preached since day one that Israel has no right to exist and should be totally wipped out. They have not returned the Hostages taken on Oct 7th and are using them as pawns. They raped and murdered in cold blood without provocation. Israel is now at war with another government to protect it's citizens. If Hamas had not attacked Israel and raped, murdered, and taken hostages, this tragic event would not be happening. Hamas in essence declared war on Israel. If Hamas would lay down their arms and return the hostages this tragedy would not be taking place.
Neil Norton
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Possible additional UA cash flow?
A few years ago, the Arizona Legislature found itself in a financial bind and sold, then leased back, the Arizona Capitol Building. The Legislature then repaid the lease in full when the state’s coffers allowed it.
Why couldn’t the UA sell, then lease back the new building being built just north of the McKale Center Parking Garage and near the Optical Sciences building? While it would be more expensive in the long run, the short run funding would save the jobs of those at the UA who did not have anything to do with the budgeting problems of the UA.
Also, understanding the need for following the guidelines of Title IX, I suggest the cutting of the Triathlon program, and both men’s and women’s cross country and tennis programs. After all, the UA Athletic Department had to cut the wrestling program years ago and even the synchronized swimming program that won a national championship.
We can’t afford everyone’s favorite program.
Matt Somers
Midtown
UA advisory committee
The recent story noting the creation of a University Advisory Council by UA President Robbins seemed to suggest that this Council would in some way satisfy the call for ‘shared governance.’ Hand-picked, meeting once a month, and incorporating faculty, staff and community members, all limited to providing advice on a specific set of issues. This is NOT shared governance. The President, of course, should hear as many voices as possible, so this Council is fine — but it is NOT a substitute for working with the elected officers of faculty governance. Faculty at the UA are distressed and indeed angry at the mess our administrators have created for us with decisions we had little or no part in and will not be put off by performative actions that change nothing.
My four years as Chair of the Faculty at the UA proved to me that good and productive interactions can exist between faculty and the president. We all need to get back to that kind of collaboration.
Lynn Nadel
Midtown
Alexei Navalny
In a salute to President Putin, the Russians have terminated one man, Alexei Navalny, while in his prison cell, sick and helpless. No doubt it took some bravado, but it needed to be done because Navalny unsettled Putin, who lives in a mausoleum. Now, this Dracula of the North can feel comfortable enough to keep to what he likes best, causing roiling misery. History is dotted with men who have done the like with bloody intent. Now, he stands tall with this frigid-hearted sort who specializes in hurt.
We have a candidate who fits that mold. Donald Trump has been waiting for the opportunity to be part of that craven lot. We think he’s got what it takes: arrogance, greed, narcissism and a goodly mean streak. Trump marks himself as a bottom-of-the-barrel degenerate. If given the chance, he is sure he can prove he is worthy of the worst.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Stop plutocracy
Superior Court Judge Scott McCoy rejected the second challenge to voter-approved Proposition 211 that requires disclosure of names of human large-dollar donors to political campaigns. Voters approved this measure known as Voters’ Right to Know by a 3 to 1 margin. The same two organizations suing this time successfully banned from the ballot voters’ previous attempt to “outlaw dirty money.”
The Arizona Free Enterprise Club and the Center for Arizona Policy argue that the law might lead to “harassment or retaliation” towards their donors for supporting unpopular positions. They were only able to provide the judge with a few emails showing “name-calling, offensive comments and criticism.” Nothing as egregious as the threats received daily by public servants performing election or judicial roles that displease these organizations or their endorsed candidates like Lake, Finchem, Horn, Biggs, Gosar and Ciscomani.
Before their well-funded appeal gets to the Supreme Court, we need to encourage Democrats to do something: impeach Justices Thomas and Alito or expand the Court. Stop plutocracy!
Dee Maitland
Marana
Good reasons, not conspiracy theory
ReL the March 2 letter “Letters to the editor.”
Good reasons explain the concerning letters to the editor regarding Ciscomani. This letter to the editor suggested that “a concerted effort to undermine Representative Juan Ciscomani” explained the numerous, almost daily “negative” letters and opinion pieces regarding Ciscomani.
The letter counted the many “negative” letters and opinions but failed to mention any of the reasons given for concern. Reasons like Ciscomani’s votes against adequately funding the IRS so that it could properly audit tax cheats. Or votes against continued funding for public education, while advocating for taxpayer funding of private schools. Or Ciscomani’s lack of support for women’s reproductive rights.
A recent Ciscomani survey asked which of the following statements about funding “Ukraine’s war against Russia” did we identify with. I chose “Other” and wrote that I support funding for Ukraine’s defense against Putin’s barbaric invasion.
Good reasons, not a conspiracy theory, explains concern for Juan Ciscomani.
Dave Gallagher
Foothills
SCOTUS slaps down Democrats
On March 4, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously, by a 9-0 ruling, slapped down the several Democrat-run states that have decided to remove Trump from the ballot in upcoming primaries and the general election in November. All Justices, including the four far left-wing ones, ruled with the majority. Democrat-run states like Colorado had the audacity to remove Trump from the voting ballot, claiming insurrection and citing the 13th Amendment. Well, first, Trump has not been charged with insurrection, much less convicted of it. The Justices saw this attempt as dangerous and an undermining of our election process (by Democrats). They correctly inferred that states could do this to anybody running for political office that they disagreed with, a weapon to go after political opponents. That has already happened with our state and federal justice systems. I would argue that Democrats, not Republicans, are now the real threat to our election process and to our Democracy. Trump was amateurish compared to what Democrats have done.
Gusher Adams
Midtown
Unbelievable
President Biden gave his State of the Union speech. He stated that all border problems can be resolved simply by passing the Senate border bill. This is a giant load of hogwash. The President currently has the authority to swarm Border Patrol agents to the border, has the authority to swarm asylum evaluators to the border, and has the authority to swarm asylum judges to the border. But he will not. WHY? What is the ulterior motive? In his speech, he noted that by taxing the rich at a higher level, think of the money available for various social services. In the same vein, if we were not supporting millions of lawbreaking newcomers, think of the billions of dollars that would be available for social services for our own citizens. The President and his Administration are a joke! A vote for Trump at least offers hope, while a vote for Biden will only continue and accelerate the pain this country is currently enduring.
Loyal M. Johnson Jr.
Oro Valley
Republicans, you need to choose
Republicans need to choose if they want democracy or if they are willing to give it away by following Trump down a very dark rabbit hole. Trump and his followers like to paint a dark picture of a country in decline that can only be saved by installing a strong-man type of government. While Joe Biden was giving his wonderful State of the Union speech, Trump was hosting Viktor Orban, the autocratic leader of Hungary, the type of leader Trump would like to be.
After Jan. 6, Mitch McConnell made sure Trump would not be impeached and barred from holding office. It’s clear the courts will not save us. The only thing that can ensure our democracy will prevail is the voters this November.
Republicans and Democrats can disagree on a lot of things, but we all need to agree that we don’t want to lose our form of government and our freedom. Once it’s gone, we won’t get it back.
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
Hypocrites
Congresswoman Greene blundered again. She made herself look stupid! This woman claimed Sandy Hook never happened. Yet, she was worried about the woman killed in Georgia by an undocumented immigrant. Yet called Sandy Hook a ploy by Democrats against bearing arms. She agreed that child actors were used. How sad the whole world saw this clown behave at the State of the Union address. Greene claims to be a graduate of U of Georgia. Her major idiotic lies! My Vietnam buddy in Australia watched her “performance” that night via laptop.
David E. Leon
Vail
Middle East conflict
Neil Norton expressed my concerns about the Hamas-Israel war perfectly. I only would add that the Palestinians have endured some oppression by Israel before the events of Oct. 7. Hamas needs to surrender and return the hostages. Hamas doesn’t care about the suffering of children. If it did, it would stop its bloody terror. It would do the right thing for its own people.
Maria Kross
Foothills
Kamala Harris V.P.
In some presidential election years, the V.P. nominee is very important. The 2024 election is one of these years. So was the 1944 election. Henry Wallace was FDR’s V.P. from 1940-44, but he was so far to the left and a communist sympathizer that FDR dropped him in favor of Harry Truman. If Wallace had been on the 1944 ticket, and then president on FDR’s death, there would have been no Marshall Plan, no NATO, no Truman Doctrine and no Berlin Air Lift. Kamala Harris has had a very low approval rating and a staff with high turnovers. She sought the presidential nomination for 2020 in January 2019, but she had so little support that she had to withdraw in December 2019, well before the primaries. Joe Biden is old and failing physically and mentally; and the unpopularity of Harris could cost the ticket up to two million votes. Can Biden afford Harris?
Douglas R. Holm
East side
Ciscomani takes advantage of renters
HSL Properties, one of Arizona’s nine major residential apartment landlords, is being sued by AZ Attorney General Kris Mayes for unduly raising rents for hundreds of thousands of Arizona renters in the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas.
By raising rents on their tenants, HSL Properties can now support an elected official who actively votes to gut funding for rental assistance programs and Section 8 housing. This elected official recently voted for a Republican spending bill that would cut support for direct housing loans by 30%.
Who is that elected official? Rep. Juan Ciscomani of Arizona’s Sixth Congressional District.
According to OpenSecrets, members and employees from HSL Properties donated over $40,000 to Ciscomani’s campaign in 2022 and $46,000 for his 2024 re-election.
Instead of providing lower costs for their tenants, HSL Properties is overcharging them. And Ciscomani is taking advantage of hard-working Arizonans by helping them.
Rep. Ciscomani votes against Arizonans who need his help.
Bobbi Zimmer
Midtown
Biden disclosed classified info
Special Counsel Robert Hur testified before Congress and was asked what motivated Joe Biden to willfully retain classified documents in different locations. He said the motivations were money and pride. Biden purposely kept classified documents as part of his plan to write a memoir for $8 million. After learning of a Special Counsel being appointed to investigate Biden, his book ghostwriter Mark Zwonitzer attempted to delete audio files of conversations with Biden containing classified information. Hur’s report said that Biden risked “serious damage” to America’s national security when he shared the classified information with Zwonitzer. Biden started meeting with him as Vice President. Remember how General Petraeus pleaded guilty to Mishandling Classified Materials for sharing his personal notebooks with his biographer mistress? Hur stated that no charges were brought against Biden because of not being able to show “intent.” Well, is earning $8 million from a memoir not proof of intent? Hur’s inexcusable and twisted rationale for not charging Biden further perpetuates beliefs of a two-tiered justice system.
Dorothy Monroe
Sierra Vista
- Maria Kross, Foothills
Neil Norton expressed my concerns about the Hamas-Israel war perfectly. I only would add that the Palestinians have endured some oppression by Israel before the events of Oct. 7th. Hamas needs to surrender and return the hostages. Hamas doesn't care about the suffering of children. If it did, it would stop its bloody terror. It would do the right thing for its own people.
Maria Kross
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Douglas R. Holm, East side
In some presidential election years, the V.P. nominee is very important. The 2024 election is one of these years. So was the 1944 election. Henry Wallace was FDR's V.P. from 1940 to 1944, but he was so far to the left and a communist sympathizer that FDR dropped him in favor of Harry Truman. If Wallace had been on the 1944 ticket, and then president on FDR's death, there would have been no Marshall Plan, no NATO, no Truman Doctrine and no Berlin Air Lift. Kamala Harris has had a very low approval rating and a staff with high turnovers. She sought the presidential nomination for 2020 in January 2019, but she had so little support that she had to withdraw in December 2019, well before the primaries. Joe Biden is old and failing physically and mentally; and the unpopularity of Harris could cost the ticket up to two million votes. Can Biden afford Harris?
Douglas R. Holm
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Mary Zimmerman, SaddleBrooke
Republicans need to choose if they want Democracy or if they are willing to give it away by following Trump down a very dark rabbit hole. Trump and his followers like to paint a dark picture of a country in decline that can only be saved by installing a strong man type of government. While Joe Biden was giving his wonderful State of the Union speech, Trump was hosting Viktor Orban, the autocratic leader of Hungary, the type of leader Trump would like to be.
After January 6, Mitch McConnell made sure Trump would not be impeached and barred from holding office. It's clear the courts will not save us. The only thing that can insure our democracy will prevail, is the voters this November.
Republicans and Democrats can disagree on a lot of things, but we all need to agree that we don't want to lose our form of government and our freedom. Once it's gone, we won't get it back.
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Loyal M Johnson Jr, Oro Valley
President Biden gave his State of the Union speech last night. He stated that all border problems can be resolved simply by passing the Senate border bill. This is a giant load of hogwash. The President currently has the authority to swarm Border Patrol agents to the border, has the authority to swarm asylum evaluators to the border, and has the authority to swarm asylum judges to the border. But he will not. WHY? What is the ulterior motive? In his speech, he noted that by taxing the rich at a higher level, think of the money available for various social services. In the same vein, if we were not supporting millions of lawbreaking newcomers, think of the billions of dollars that would be available for social services for our own citizens. The President and his Administration are a joke! A vote for Trump at least offers hope, while a vote for Biden will only continue and accelerate the pain this country is currently enduring.
Loyal M Johnson Jr
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Gusher Adams, Midtown
Today, 3/4/24, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously, by a 9-0 ruling, slapped down the several Democrat run states that have decided to remove Trump from the ballot in upcoming primaries and the general election in November. All Justices, including the four far left wing ones, ruled with the majority. Democrat run states like Colorado had the audacity to remove Trump from the voting ballot claiming Insurrection and citing the 13th Amendment. Well, first, Trump has not been charged with Insurrection much less convicted of it. The Justices saw this attempt as dangerous and an undermining of our election process (by Democrats). They correctly inferred that states could do this do anybody running for political office that they disagreed with, a weapon to go after political opponents. That has already happened with our state and federal justice systems. I would ague that Democrats, not Republicans, are now the real threat to our election process and to our Democracy. Trump was amateurish compared to what Democrats have done.
Gusher Adams
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dorothy Monroe, Sierra Vista
Special Counsel Robert Hur testified before Congress and was asked what motivated Joe Biden to willfully retain classified documents in different locations. He said the motivations were money and pride. Biden purposely kept classified documents as part of his plan to write a memoir for $8 million. After learning of a Special Counsel being appointed to investigate Biden, his book ghost writer Mark Zwonitzer attempted to delete audio files of conversations with Biden containing classified information. Hur's report said that Biden risked "serious damage" to America's national security when he shared the classified information with Zwonitzer. Biden started meeting with him as Vice President. Remember how General Petraeus pleaded guilty to Mishandling Classified Materials for sharing his personal notebooks with his biographer mistress? Hur stated that no charges were brought against Biden because of not being able to show "intent." Well, is earning $8 million from a memoir not proof of intent? Hur's inexcusable and twisted rationale for not charging Biden further perpetuates beliefs of a two tiered justice system.
Dorothy Monroe
Sierra Vista
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ron Lancaster, North side
In a salute to President Putin, the Russians have terminated one man, Alexei Navalny, while in his prison cell, sick and helpless. No doubt it took some bravado, but it needed to be done because Navalny unsettled Putin, who lives in a mausoleum. Now this Dracula of the North can feel comfortable enough to keep to what he likes best, causing roiling misery. History is dotted with men who have done the like with bloody intent. Now he stands tall with this frigid-hearted sort who specializes in hurt.
We have a candidate who fits that mold. Donald Trump has been waiting for the opportunity to be part of that craven lot. We think he’s got what it takes, arrogance, greed, narcissism, and a goodly mean streak. Trump marks himself as a bottom-of-the-barrel degenerate. If given the chance he is sure he can prove he is worthy of the worst.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
More like this...
- Boris Slovek, Green Valley
President Biden went to Brownsville, TX to promote the Senate's Border legislation, which is so full of border enforcement holes that a truck could drive through them. Biden has only been to the border twice in three years as over seven million have entered illegally on his watch. Texas is no longer the epicenter of illegal immigration because Governor Abbott has secured the border there with razor wire and shipping containers. Trump appeared in Eagle Pass with the head of the Border Patrol Union who said Agents were "mad as hell and pissed off at Biden's policies." Liberal run sanctuary cities are shielding migrants arrested for crimes by not cooperating with ICE. Georgia University student Laken Riley was murdered and seriously disfigured by "legally processed and released" from Border Patrol custody asylum seeker Venezuelan Jose Ibarra. He subsequently traveled to New York City and was arrested for child endangerment. ICE could have placed a Detainer on him but, NYC is a sanctuary city. Laken would still be alive attending college.
Boris Slovek
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jon Benda, Midtown
If Trump wins in November, he plans to make Medicare Advantage plans the default program for everyone who is newly eligible. Medicare Advantage is privatized insurance; unlike traditional Medicare, it puts an insurance company between you and your health treatments. Traditional Medicare has no such "middleman"; the government pays for your healthcare.
Medicare Advantage plans put profits before people, regularly denying coverage for essential treatments and services, forcing patients to forgo the care they need and putting their health and lives at risk.. Meanwhile, private insurance CEOs rake in the money, at the expense of seniors and those with disabilities.
Over 65 million Americans rely on Medicare for their health care, and over 400,000 people become newly eligible each year. Their health and lives are at stake in the November election.
Voters need to tell Trump: NO PRIVATIZATION OF MEDICARE!!
Jon Benda
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dan Pendergrass, West side
Trump mad a big deal out of the nurse killed by a migrant, but another tragedy occurred recently in Olivette, Missouri. A young man shot and killed his mother when she came in the back door of their house because he thought she was an intruder. Yes, he had been a victim of crime as many of us have been. One has to wonder, however if the priming of the masses with violent rhetoric from the Trumplican faction hasn't created a level of dangerous paranoia. Many studies have shown that people can be primed to think along certain lines. This is the basis for much of marketing. So when the leader of the Republican party screams bloody murder from the pulpit, you have to consider the ramifications on the populace. The truth is that Trump only cares about Trump, so this is just alligator tears.
Dan Pendergrass
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jeff Rayner, SaddleBrooke
So a guy gets found guilty of defamation by a jury, to the tune of $5 million. Then he cannot keep his mouth shut and is saddled with another $83 million in damages. The guy is still running his mouth. Stupid has a new personification.
Some people think this guy is presidential material. Never mind the stupid part, what about the lack of self control? Perhaps he thinks his supporters will pay for all of his poor behavior and bad acts. Who will pay if he becomes our president and pulls his stunts in the name of the USA?
Jeff Rayner
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- James Abels, Midtown
Re: 3/11/24 Fair share letter
The current tax rates are based a progressive tax schedule. Progressive: as defined by Merriam-Webster 4b "increasing in rate as the base increases". Not to be confused with Progressive Liberalism.
The Federal tax code is not based on a 'fair share' concept but on the ability to pay concept. The more a taxable entity earns or receives, the greater that entity's ability to pay.
I would eliminate Federal 'C' Corp taxation and replace the individual tax rates from 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35% & 37% to 10%, 15%, 25%, 35% & 45% with roughly similar brackets. I would tax all income at the same rate with passive income taxed with a SS/MC premium similar to how self-employment income pays toward SS/MC. Tax territorial income only rather than global income. It's too easy to 'hide' global income. Tax it when it comes in country.
James Abels
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Rick Cohn, West side
Regarding Trump's removal from the Colorado ballot, SCOTUS justices Sotomayor, Kagan and Jackson wrote on Monday: “would … create a chaotic state-by-state patchwork.” In my letter-to-the-editor on February 8th, I wrote: "Overturning Roe v Wade, their premise was that the Constitution didn't address abortion which left the matter to be adjudicated by the individual states. In an about face, they are saying that despite the fact that the Constitution allows election procedural matters to be determined by the states, the states have to be reined in or chaos will ensue." Pardon me while I declare: "I told you so!"
I don't disagree with Sotomayor, Kagan, and Jackson. What bothers me is SCOTUS's ability to flip flop the reasoning behind its decisions. When the reasoning switches based on the direction that the wind is blowing, they are no longer interpreting the law; they are being political hacks.
Rick Cohn
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Melvina Strijdonk, Oro Valley
This new soup recipe is ready for the run up to November and was recently taste tested outside a Trump Rally.
Poll results are in:
59% said it had just the right amount of xenophobia 41% said it needed more
80% said racism and antisemitism were almost perfect 20%said it needed more
60% said it hit the mark with lies and deception 40% said it needed more
The results are in! Soup is ready to hit the market. If you don't want to make your own It will be sold in our tasteful carpetbagger gold cans and will cost $400 and be virtual. Order yours now!
Melvina Strijdonk
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bruce Hilpert, North side
The impact of the Alabama Supreme Court's decision that multi-celled embryos are “children” created in the image of god goes far beyond the impact on in-vitro fertilization. Chief Justice Parker is an avowed “dominionist,” a Christian philosophy that the United States should be administered according to biblical principles and mandates. Parker is a believer in the “Seven Mountains Mandate,” advocating that Christians must take over seven “mountains” of American culture: government, education, media, arts and entertainment, religion, family, and business.
Tellingly, Justice Parker's decision referenced the bible rather than the constitution to justify his decision. That is because our Constitution does not include the word “god.” Our country must fully understand the efforts of this minority of Americans whose goal is to usurp our constitution and our government. They have already made great strides toward this goal.
Bruce Hilpert
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Thomas Fletcher, Southwest side
It's hard for me to understand how one man, president Biden, could endanger this country. There our others in the background responsible for this but we can only suspect their involvement. The damage is done and we may never get back to the sovereign nation and security we always had. To secure the border now reminds me of the old saying"you closed the gate after the horses were gone" The leaders of this country don't know how to contain this mess. They may have turned the United States into the next third world country, The migrants will take advantage of what they get and use up Money that should be used to help Americans. The justice system isn't going to control what lies ahead and Now the migrants feel entitled to the best we have to offer for free. Other countries are watching and may consider this a time to test The United States and it's resolve.
Thomas Fletcher
Southwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ivan Stanski, Marana
Many people have read that Federal Prosecutor Hur did not indict President Biden on classified documents charges because of cognitive reasons, as in not recalling being Vice President. But I think Biden played the cognitive "I don't remember" game to the hilt with Hur, and it worked. Hur appeared before the House of Representatives where portions of his report were read. Biden had informed his book writer of finding classified "stuff" downstairs, but did not remember saying that when being interviewed by Hur. Biden said he did not remember finding classified materials in his home after his Vice Presidency, and did not remember how classified documents about Afghanistan got into his garage. These are classic "I don't remember" statements made by criminal suspects. I believe Hur, a seasoned federal prosecutor, fell for Biden's cognitive drama act hook line and sinker. A performance worthy of an Oscar. Biden either has serious cognitive issues making him unfit to be President or he repeatedly lied to Hur. Which is it?
Ivan Stanski
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- John Balsbaugh, Midtown
My mother died in December 2021, during the last year of her life, she would ask, if Trump was in jail yet. I would explain that the wheels of justice turn slowly. Never in my life could, I imagine that SCOTUS would throw sand in the works. The Roberts' Court is an abomination to the Lord! That is not my hyperbolic opinion that's right out of the Bible! "He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the just, Both (sic) of them alike are abominations to the Lord." (Prov. 17:15) Conservatives on the Court have a lot to answer for, when they die!
John Balsbaugh
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bert Stamper, Northwest side
My grand-daughter asked me to co-sign for a student loan. When I received the form, she was borrowing $5,000. The interest was $6,200. If the government would cancel the interest, it would be much easier to repay the loan. They could do this for all loans, rather than cherry-picking a select few. Both sides of this debate would receive equal benefit.
Bert Stamper
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
American problems
It’s hard for me to understand how one man, President Biden, could endanger this country. There are others in the background responsible for this but we can only suspect their involvement. The damage is done and we may never get back to the sovereign nation and security we always had. To secure the border now reminds me of the old saying “you closed the gate after the horses were gone.” The leaders of this country don’t know how to contain this mess. They may have turned the United States into the next third-world country, the migrants will take advantage of what they get and use up money that should be used to help Americans. The justice system isn’t going to control what lies ahead and now the migrants feel entitled to the best we have to offer for free. Other countries are watching and may consider this a time to test the United States and its resolve.
Thomas Fletcher
Southwest side
Be afraid; be very afraid
The impact of the Alabama Supreme Court’s decision that multi-celled embryos are “children” created in the image of god goes far beyond the impact on in-vitro fertilization. Chief Justice Parker is an avowed “dominionist,” a Christian philosophy that the United States should be administered according to biblical principles and mandates. Parker is a believer in the “Seven Mountains Mandate,” advocating that Christians must take over seven “mountains” of American culture: government, education, media, arts and entertainment, religion, family, and business.
Tellingly, Justice Parker’s decision referenced the Bible rather than the Constitution to justify his decision. That is because our Constitution does not include the word “god.” Our country must fully understand the efforts of this minority of Americans whose goal is to usurp our constitution and our government. They have already made great strides toward this goal.
Bruce Hilpert
North side
SCOTUS
My mother died in December 2021, during the last year of her life, she would ask, if Trump was in jail yet. I would explain that the wheels of justice turn slowly. Never in my life could I imagine that SCOTUS would throw sand in the works. The Roberts’ Court is an abomination to the Lord! That is not my hyperbolic opinion that’s right out of the Bible! “He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the just, Both (sic) of them alike are abominations to the Lord.” (Proverbs 17:15) Conservatives on the Court have a lot to answer for, when they die!
John Balsbaugh
Midtown
Biden’s border visit to Brownsville
President Biden went to Brownsville, Texas, to promote the Senate’s Border legislation, which is so full of border enforcement holes that a truck could drive through them. Biden has only been to the border twice in three years as over 7 million have entered illegally on his watch. Texas is no longer the epicenter of illegal immigration because Governor Abbott has secured the border there with razor wire and shipping containers. Trump appeared in Eagle Pass with the head of the Border Patrol Union who said agents were “mad as hell and pissed off at Biden’s policies.” Liberal-run sanctuary cities are shielding migrants arrested for crimes by not cooperating with ICE. Georgia University student Laken Riley was murdered and seriously disfigured by “legally processed and released” from Border Patrol custody asylum seeker Venezuelan Jose Ibarra. He subsequently traveled to New York City and was arrested for child endangerment. ICE could have placed a detainer on him but, NYC is a sanctuary city. Laken would still be alive attending college.
Boris Slovek
Green Valley
Student loans
Re: the March 1 letter “Student loan forgiveness.”
My granddaughter asked me to co-sign for a student loan. When I received the form, she was borrowing $5,000. The interest was $6,200. If the government would cancel the interest, it would be much easier to repay the loan. They could do this for all loans, rather than cherry-picking a select few. Both sides of this debate would receive equal benefit.
Bert Stamper
Northwest side
Supreme political justice
Regarding Trump’s removal from the Colorado ballot, SCOTUS justices Sotomayor, Kagan and Jackson wrote on Monday: “would … create a chaotic state-by-state patchwork.” In my letter-to-the-editor on Feb. 8, I wrote: “Overturning Roe v Wade, their premise was that the Constitution didn’t address abortion which left the matter to be adjudicated by the individual states. In an about face, they are saying that despite the fact that the Constitution allows election procedural matters to be determined by the states, the states have to be reined in or chaos will ensue.” Pardon me while I declare: “I told you so!”
I don’t disagree with Sotomayor, Kagan, and Jackson. What bothers me is SCOTUS’s ability to flip flop the reasoning behind its decisions. When the reasoning switches based on the direction that the wind is blowing, they are no longer interpreting the law; they are being political hacks.
Rick Cohn
West side
Fair share
Re: the March 11 letter “’Fair share’.”
Actually, I think the writer is noticing the wrong people discussing fair share taxes. Most of us wonder why billionaires who would have to pay millions in taxes seems to feel they will be going broke with only 950 million dollars left. I mean, that could only pay for another 20 yachts and 100 more vacation homes.
Duane Harpet
Northwest side
Recipe for MAGA Soup
This new soup recipe is ready for the run up to November and was recently taste tested outside a Trump Rally.
Poll results are in:
59% said it had just the right amount of xenophobia, 41% said it needed more
80% said racism and antisemitism were almost perfect, 20% said it needed more
60% said it hit the mark with lies and deception, 40% said it needed more
The results are in! Soup is ready to hit the market. If you don’t want to make your own it will be sold in our tasteful carpetbagger gold cans and will cost $400 and be virtual. Order yours now!
Melvina Strijdonk
Oro Valley
Ability to pay
Re: the March 11 letter “’Fair share’.”
The current tax rates are based a progressive tax schedule. Progressive: as defined by Merriam-Webster 4b “increasing in rate as the base increases”. Not to be confused with Progressive Liberalism.
The Federal tax code is not based on a ‘fair share’ concept but on the ability to pay concept. The more a taxable entity earns or receives, the greater that entity’s ability to pay.
I would eliminate Federal ‘C’ Corp taxation and replace the individual tax rates from 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35% and 37% to 10%, 15%, 25%, 35% and 45% with roughly similar brackets. I would tax all income at the same rate with passive income taxed with a SS/MC premium similar to how self-employment income pays toward SS/MC. Tax territorial income only rather than global income. It’s too easy to ‘hide’ global income. Tax it when it comes in country.
James Abels
Midtown
Was there a missing pillar?
Re: the March 12 article “UA AD focused on ‘five priorities’.”
In the story of the “five pillars” of the future athletic program proposed by the new athletic director, Desireé Reed-Francois, the emphasis on academics seemed missing. Of the 100s of UA student-athletics only a handful make a future living as a professional, with few of them completing their degree. The remaining student-athletes have been given a much treasured paid scholarship and should be accountable to complete their degree. I thought “academics” should be one of the “pillars”. Without Title 9 and women’s sports, there would be a paucity of “student-athletes”.
Jay Gandolfi
Northeast side
How stupid is stupid?
So a guy gets found guilty of defamation by a jury, to the tune of $5 million. Then he cannot keep his mouth shut and is saddled with another $83 million in damages. The guy is still running his mouth. Stupid has a new personification.
Some people think this guy is presidential material. Never mind the stupid part, what about the lack of self control? Perhaps he thinks his supporters will pay for all of his poor behavior and bad acts. Who will pay if he becomes our president and pulls his stunts in the name of the USA?
Jeff Rayner
SaddleBrooke
Juan Ciscomani
This is to the people in Arizona Congressional District 6 regarding Congressman Juan Ciscomani.
You are constantly whining about the Congressman’s voting record. Juan Ciscomani is a Republican. You knew that when you elected him to office. Why are you complaining when he votes the Republican line in most cases? Did you expect him to morph into a Democrat after he was elected?
You got what you voted for and you’re stuck with him until the next election.
Al Gordon
East side
Councilman Kozachik
Thank you Councilman Kozachik!
On behalf of the Tucson animal-welfare community, I would like to thank you for being a tireless advocate for animals during your tenure on the Tucson City Council. Your strong voice against greyhound racing helped to pass legislation that shuttered one of the worst greyhound racing tracks in the United States, the Tucson Greyhound Park.
I commend you for continuing to speak out against puppy mills, and for supporting legislation that would require pet shops to only sell rescue animals.
Thank you for all your efforts to support the Tucson Wildlife Center and its mission to rescue and rehabilitate sick, injured and orphaned wildlife before they are returned to the wild.
The vast animal-welfare community in Tucson can’t thank you enough for all your hard work and commitment to animal rights.
Carmine Cardamone
Midtown
Medicare vs. MAGA
If Trump wins in November, he plans to make Medicare Advantage plans the default program for everyone who is newly eligible. Medicare Advantage is privatized insurance; unlike traditional Medicare, it puts an insurance company between you and your health treatments. Traditional Medicare has no such “middleman”; the government pays for your healthcare.
Medicare Advantage plans put profits before people, regularly denying coverage for essential treatments and services, forcing patients to forgo the care they need and putting their health and lives at risk. Meanwhile, private insurance CEOs rake in the money, at the expense of seniors and those with disabilities.
Over 65 million Americans rely on Medicare for their health care, and over 400,000 people become newly eligible each year. Their health and lives are at stake in the November election.
Voters need to tell Trump: No privatization of Medicare!
Jon Benda
Midtown
Priming for violence?
Trump made a big deal out of the nurse killed by a migrant, but another tragedy occurred recently in Olivette, Missouri. A young man shot and killed his mother when she came in the back door of their house because he thought she was an intruder. Yes, he had been a victim of crime as many of us have been. One has to wonder, however if the priming of the masses with violent rhetoric from the Trumplican faction hasn’t created a level of dangerous paranoia. Many studies have shown that people can be primed to think along certain lines. This is the basis for much of marketing. So when the leader of the Republican party screams bloody murder from the pulpit, you have to consider the ramifications on the populace. The truth is that Trump only cares about Trump, so this is just alligator tears.
Dan Pendergrass
West side
We’ll miss Kozachik
Steve Kozachik has set a high bar for public service in a City Council office. He took care of constituents and went well beyond that with imaginative solutions to many of the big problems of our day. And he answered his phone, promptly. Fond farewell.
Ford Burkhart
Midtown
Biden played “I don’t remember” card
Many people have read that Federal Prosecutor Hur did not indict President Biden on classified documents charges because of cognitive reasons, as in not recalling being Vice President. But I think Biden played the cognitive “I don’t remember” game to the hilt with Hur, and it worked. Hur appeared before the House of Representatives where portions of his report were read. Biden had informed his book writer of finding classified “stuff” downstairs, but did not remember saying that when being interviewed by Hur. Biden said he did not remember finding classified materials in his home after his Vice Presidency, and did not remember how classified documents about Afghanistan got into his garage. These are classic “I don’t remember” statements made by criminal suspects. I believe Hur, a seasoned federal prosecutor, fell for Biden’s cognitive drama act hook line and sinker. A performance worthy of an Oscar. Biden either has serious cognitive issues making him unfit to be President or he repeatedly lied to Hur. Which is it?
Ivan Stanski
Marana
- Gail Powell, Northwest side
While looking at today’s paper I thought of Anne Murray’s 1983 hit song “A little good news today”. Wow! Seems like things sure haven’t gotten better over the years and we sure could use some good news. I’m not holding my breath tho.
Gail Powell
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Haley Roberts, North side
From Joe Biden's Presidential inauguration speech on January 21, 2021, "We must end this uncivil war that pits red against blue, conservative versus liberal. We can do this if we open our souls instead of hardening our hearts." There was more "unifying" rhetoric from Biden that has proven to be hollow. He has done nothing but be uncivil and divide Americans, continually claiming that 70 million Republican voters pose a threat to our Democracy. No mention of Democrats' threat to Democracy trying to keep the leading Republican candidate off state ballots. Biden used the State of the Union speech not as a unifying voice for America, but as an angry campaign speech attacking Republicans and members of SCOTUS, who were in attendance. The liberal dominated news media was ecstatic as their cognitively challenged President appeared vigorous for a change. Maybe given a double dose of his memory medicine. Biden is the "Divider in Chief", and he is not a nice guy! Ask Navy, his until recently ignored 7th granddaughter.
Haley Roberts
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- James Nesci, East side
Britain’s Princess Catherine recently had to apologize for photo-shopping her family’s Mother’s Day portrait. Apparently she corrected a sweater, a zipper and her hair. What a shameful scandal! I’m sure glad I live in the U.S. where our leaders have never tried to pull the wool over our eyes!
James Nesci
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Paul Emmert, Marana
How many times do we need to remind Congressman Juan Ciscomani?
According to his latest constituent newsletter describing his impression of the President's State of the Union address: "Border security remains the top priority for Americans, yet President Biden provided no meaningful answers to a crisis of his own creation."
Juan, are you having a memory lapse? Why don't you mention the FACT that there is a Senate bipartisan bill that does, indeed, provide "meaningful answers" that is gathering dust because your proxy-leader-presidential candidate says don't consider it? In FACT, the President implored you, Juan, to pass this border security bill now. Did you forget that? Does the cat have your tongue when you write your nice newsletters? Or is it simple political expediency to leave out important information that your constituents demand and deserve?
There are over-the-counter medications that tout improved memory. I suggest you consider them.
Paul Emmert
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Judy J Gillies, Downtown
It comes as no surprise that Rep. Juan Ciscomani recently endorsed Donald Trump.
Rep. Ciscomani wants us to believe that he’s not an extremist, but his actions prove otherwise. He has been a steward for Donald Trump’s extremist policies that endanger our working class, reproductive rights, the Latino community, and the environment.
I’m disappointed but not surprised by Rep. Ciscomani’s endorsement of Donald Trump. You would think for a guy who likes to “hear out everyone,” Ciscomani would finally listen to the concerns of his constituents. Nope!
We don’t need his support of Trump. We need him to listen to the needs of his constituents across his district. We are tired of the photo-ops and the updates on his social media that don’t show us anything.
Rep. Ciscomani has failed his congressional district and Arizona by voting against us, siding with the ultra-wealthy, and becoming a full-blown extremist.
Judy J Gillies
Downtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Chris Sipp, Midtown
Majorie Tayler Greene reprehensible action at the SOTU shows she has no shame. Her exploitation of a murdered women in Georgia by a undocumented immigrant with “say her name” has me wanting to say to MTG “ say their names” after 50 people killed by a deranged gunman who was an American citizen in Las Vegas in 2017 or after 18 shot in Maine by a US army reservist or 10 people all African American murdered by homegrown gunman and racist. How do we protect our children in classrooms from their their classmates with guns?. So what are Trump republicans saying about gun shootings by American citizens besides thoughts and prayers ? According to soon to be a convicted felon Trump , we need to get over it , move on. They are not for sensible gun control, and now not even for immigration reform. They are hypocrites trying to sway public opinion for their own political power. Oh, and thoughts and prayers to the deceased Republican Party which is now the trump party.
Chris Sipp
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Margaret Scott, Midtown
In this contentious time, think about the beauty of the planet, the desert and the mountains, the rain forest, coral reefs, and ice sheets. Climate change threatens them all.
NPR reported that the oceans have borne the greatest burden of rising temperatures, and reefs may be the first ecosystem destroyed. Carbon dioxide from fossil fuels makes the water more acidic, a death sentence for the coral. Without urgent action to save our reefs, this living species will be gone by the end of the century, during our children’s lifetime.
The time for fossil fuels is over. The US and 200 other countries agreed to reduce fossil fuels for the first time in decades of UN climate talks. The Biden Administration has acted with $623 million in grants to fund EV charging stations and ports across the US. In Arizona, school districts will receive Clean Bus Grants to fund electric buses.
Beauty deserves care. Beauty deserves justice. Vote for Biden.
Margaret Scott
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Adnan Almaney, Southwest side
Since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, President Biden has supplied Israel with 2000-pound bombs, precision-guided bunker busters, Iron Dome interceptors, artillery shells, and ammunition, among others. These weapons have led to the slaughter of more than 30,000 Palestinians, many of whom are women and children. Lately, as if shaken awake from a stupor, President Biden has begun delivering food and water to those who have temporarily survived the genocide in which he has played a leading role. Question: Is President Biden’s latest humanitarian gesture a case of amnesia, delusion, denial, desperation to ingratiate himself to the “Uncommitted” voters, or a typical example of political moral depravity?
Adnan Almaney
Southwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jim Taylor, East side
Has anyone also noticed that the rich hide their wealth to avoid paying taxes, rather than just paying their fair share?
Consider how paying taxes actually impacts those who have low or average income, compared to the the wealthy. In 2024, if your annual income is $35,000 and you’re married filing jointly, you’ll be in the 12% tax bracket, leaving you with $30,800 to spend as you wish. If you make $350,000 and you’re married filing jointly, you’ll be in the 24% bracket, and you’ll have to somehow scrape by on the measly $266,000 you’ll have remaining. Compare the after tax remainders, and then tell me you’re not fortunate. Of course, all of this is before exemptions, which again, exponentially, favor those with higher income.
Sure, the higher the income, the greater the tax. That’s only fair. Rather than whining about those who have less than you, be thankful that you can contribute more to the greater good.
Jim Taylor
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- LEADAWN ANDERTON, Southwest side
We, the People, accept the results of our elections. Why? Because there are so many safeguards
in place, we know we can. Decentralization of the voting process using many well-trained paid
and volunteer poll workers provides numerous protections in the process, making the chance of
significant fraud virtually impossible.
Of the 3,400,000 votes cast in Arizona’s 2020 election, there were 9 confirmed cases of voter fraud, and the results were adjusted accordingly.
Voter registration requires a social security number confirming your citizenship and age. If you
vote by mail, your signature is verified with signature already on file with the State. If you vote
in person, you must present a government issued photo ID or 2 other forms of ID to verify your
identity and address. The tabulation machines are calibrated and tested to ensure accuracy.
We must encourage all eligible voters to register and vote. We owe it to each other to be active
participants in Our Democracy.
LEADAWN ANDERTON
Southwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ke Chiang Hsieh, Midtown
“Pulling oneself up by one’s own bootstraps” defies physics and when applied to life denies reality. Hard work is necessary for success, but never sufficient. Has anyone succeeded in anything without other’s help? Without our parents or guardians, teachers, family, friends, communities, institutions, etc., could we have made it? We benefit from each other through public services: schools, roads, sanitation, police, fire, etc., all provided by dedicated competent specialists. To enable them to excel in benefitting us all requires adequate taxation.
Graduated taxation is fair sharing of wealth to provide universal services in a civilized society. A flat-rate tax could destroy a minimum-wage worker’s family but won’t scratch a superrich, while diminishing the services needed, especially for the poor. Sharing wealth to benefit the whole was a Christian practice (Acts 2:44-46). Love your neighbor as yourself, pull others up by voting for strong graduated taxation!
Ke Chiang Hsieh
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Sarah Roberts, West side
Thank you, Tim Steller, for writing this column! It really validates what many of us who live in LD 20 are thinking. Alma Hernandez is the Rep in my district though I did not vote for her and I am NOT okay with her approach. She does not represent the views of many of her constituents. She displays the flag of Israel on her desk in the AZ State House! Israel is an apartheid state, well documented by international human rights organizations. Israel has been committing genocide and ethnic cleansing in Gaza for the past 5 months. Now, Gazans are dying of starvation, with Israeli forces killing people waiting for food. And, Hernandez has the gall to leave the AZ legislature in the middle of the session taking other legislators with her on a one-sided trip to bolster support for Israel. Shame on you, Alma!
Sarah Roberts
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Putin endorses Biden for President
I continually read letters posted by the Star about Trump and Republicans supporting Putin. Well, guess what, Democrat readers, Vladimir Putin has just endorsed Joe Biden for President. He prefers Biden over Trump. Why? Because he considers Trump too “unpredictable.” Maybe the reason he never invaded Ukraine under Trump was for fear of what he might do. No such fear of Biden, as Putin invaded Ukraine twice with him in the White House. Putin knows that Biden is in cognitive decline, and if that 3 a.m. call came into the White House, Biden likely would not remember that he is the President. As for House Republicans not passing legislation to fund weapons for Ukraine, all along Biden has not provided them with the most modern weapons to win the war, but rather with just enough capability to have a stalemate, which is where we are at now. Biden has feared that Ukraine’s winning the war might result in Putin using nuclear weapons. Thus, Putin for Biden! A new “Russia collusion.”
Ardel Francis
Northwest side
Good news
While looking at the paper, I thought of Anne Murray’s 1983 hit song “A little good news” today. Wow! Seems like things sure haven’t gotten better over the years and we sure could use some good news. I’m not holding my breath though.
Gail Powell
Northwest side
President Biden, the ‘Divider in Chief’
From Joe Biden’s Presidential inauguration speech on Jan. 21, 2021, “We must end this uncivil war that pits red against blue, conservative versus liberal. We can do this if we open our souls instead of hardening our hearts.” There was more “unifying” rhetoric from Biden that has proven to be hollow. He has done nothing but be uncivil and divide Americans, continually claiming that 70 million Republican voters pose a threat to our Democracy. No mention of Democrats’ threat to Democracy trying to keep the leading Republican candidate off state ballots. Biden used the State of the Union speech not as a unifying voice for America but as an angry campaign speech attacking Republicans and members of SCOTUS, who were in attendance. The liberal-dominated news media was ecstatic as their cognitively challenged President appeared vigorous for a change. Maybe he was given a double dose of his memory medicine. Biden is the “Divider in Chief,” and he is not a nice guy! Ask Navy, his until recently ignored seventh granddaughter.
Haley Roberts
North side
Royal disaster
Britain’s Princess Catherine recently had to apologize for photoshopping her family’s Mother’s Day portrait. Apparently, she corrected a sweater, a zipper and her hair. What a shameful scandal! I’m sure glad I live in the U.S., where our leaders have never tried to pull the wool over our eyes!
James Nesci
East side
Thank you, Steve!
I would like to thank Councilmember Steve Kozachik for his wonderful service to the Tucson community the last 15 years.
Tucson’s loss will be Pima County’s gain. He’ll definitely be missed.
Matt Somers
Midtown
Contributing to the greater good
Re: the March 11 letter “’Fair share’.”
Has anyone also noticed that the rich hide their wealth to avoid paying taxes, rather than just paying their fair share?
Consider how paying taxes actually impacts those who have low or average income, compared to the wealthy. In 2024, if your annual income is $35,000 and you’re married filing jointly, you’ll be in the 12% tax bracket, leaving you with $30,800 to spend as you wish. If you make $350,000 and you’re married filing jointly, you’ll be in the 24% bracket, and you’ll have to somehow scrape by on the measly $266,000 you’ll have remaining. Compare the after-tax remainders, and then tell me you’re not fortunate. Of course, all of this is before exemptions, which again, exponentially, favor those with higher income.
Sure, the higher the income, the greater the tax. That’s only fair. Rather than whining about those who have less than you, be thankful that you can contribute more to the greater good.
Jim Taylor
East side
Integrity of elections
We, the People, accept the results of our elections. Why? Because there are so many safeguards in place, we know we can. Decentralization of the voting process using many well-trained paid and volunteer poll workers provides numerous protections in the process, making the chance of significant fraud virtually impossible.
Of the 3,400,000 votes cast in Arizona’s 2020 election, there were nine confirmed cases of voter fraud, and the results were adjusted accordingly.
Voter registration requires a social security number confirming your citizenship and age. If you vote by mail, your signature is verified with signature already on file with the State. If you vote in person, you must present a government-issued photo ID or two other forms of ID to verify your identity and address. The tabulation machines are calibrated and tested to ensure accuracy.
We must encourage all eligible voters to register and vote. We owe it to each other to be active participants in Our Democracy.
Leadawn Anderton
Southwest side
City Councilman Kozachik to resign
He can’t resign soon enough. He doesn’t care about his constituents but he will bend over backwards for wealthy developers. The sad thing is that for the next year, we will be stuck with some political hack picked by the mayor and the rest of the City Council, none of whom even live in Ward 6. It is time to change the city charter and have replacement council members chosen through special elections. Doing otherwise is undemocratic. And we need to have ward-only elections and have them chosen every two years. It is time to take back control of our city from political elites.
David Moore
Midtown
Ciscomani endorses wrong candidate
It comes as no surprise that Rep. Juan Ciscomani recently endorsed Donald Trump.
Rep. Ciscomani wants us to believe that he’s not an extremist, but his actions prove otherwise. He has been a steward for Donald Trump’s extremist policies that endanger our working class, reproductive rights, the Latino community, and the environment.
I’m disappointed but not surprised by Rep. Ciscomani’s endorsement of Donald Trump. You would think for a guy who likes to “hear out everyone,” Ciscomani would finally listen to the concerns of his constituents. Nope!
We don’t need his support of Trump. We need him to listen to the needs of his constituents across his district. We are tired of the photo-ops and the updates on his social media that don’t show us anything.
Rep. Ciscomani has failed his congressional district and Arizona by voting against us, siding with the ultra-wealthy, and becoming a full-blown extremist.
Judy J Gillies
Downtown
Say their names
Majorie Taylor Greene’s reprehensible action at the SOTU shows she has no shame. Her exploitation of a murdered women in Georgia by an undocumented immigrant with “say her name” has me wanting to say to MTG “say their names,” after 50 people killed by a deranged gunman who was an American citizen in Las Vegas in 2017. Or after 18 were. shot in Maine by a US army reservist. Or 10 people, all African American, murdered by a homegrown gunman and racist. How do we protect our children in classrooms from their classmates with guns? So what are Trump Republicans saying about gun shootings by American citizens besides thoughts and prayers? According to the soon-to-be-convicted-felon Trump, we need to get over it, move on. They are not for sensible gun control, and now not even for immigration reform. They are hypocrites trying to sway public opinion for their own political power. Oh, and thoughts and prayers to the deceased Republican Party, which is now the Trump party.
Chris Sipp
Midtown
Ciscomani’s incredibly shrinking memory
How many times do we need to remind Congressman Juan Ciscomani?
According to his latest constituent newsletter describing his impression of the President’s State of the Union address: “Border security remains the top priority for Americans, yet President Biden provided no meaningful answers to a crisis of his own creation.”
Juan, are you having a memory lapse? Why don’t you mention the FACT that there is a Senate bipartisan bill that does, indeed, provide “meaningful answers” that is gathering dust because your proxy-leader-presidential candidate says don’t consider it? In FACT, the President implored you, Juan, to pass this border security bill now. Did you forget that? Does the cat have your tongue when you write your nice newsletters? Or is it simple political expediency to leave out important information that your constituents demand and deserve?
There are over-the-counter medications that tout improved memory. I suggest you consider them.
Paul Emmert
Marana
Israel shouldn’t be legislators’ top priority
Re: the March 10 article “Israel shouldn’t be top priority for AZ legislators.”
Thank you, Tim Steller, for writing this column. It really validates what many of us who live in LD 20 are thinking. Alma Hernandez is the Rep. in my district, though I did not vote for her and I am NOT OK with her approach. She does not represent the views of many of her constituents. She displays the flag of Israel on her desk in the AZ State House! Israel is an apartheid state, well documented by international human rights organizations. Israel has been committing genocide and ethnic cleansing in Gaza for the past 5 months. Now, Gazans are dying of starvation, with Israeli forces killing people waiting for food. And, Hernandez has the gall to leave the AZ legislature in the middle of the session, taking other legislators with her on a one-sided trip to bolster support for Israel. Shame on you, Alma!
Sarah Roberts
West side
Biden delivers bombs, then aid to victims
Since the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7, President Biden has supplied Israel with 2,000-pound bombs, precision-guided bunker busters, Iron Dome interceptors, artillery shells, and ammunition, among others. These weapons have led to the slaughter of more than 30,000 Palestinians, many of whom are women and children. Lately, as if shaken awake from a stupor, President Biden has begun delivering food and water to those who have temporarily survived the genocide in which he has played a leading role. Question: Is President Biden’s latest humanitarian gesture a case of amnesia, delusion, denial, desperation to ingratiate himself to the “uncommitted” voters, or a typical example of political moral depravity?
Adnan Almaney
Southwest side
Strong graduated taxation benefits all
“Pulling oneself up by one’s own bootstraps” defies physics and, when applied to life, denies reality. Hard work is necessary for success but never sufficient. Has anyone succeeded in anything without other’s help? Without our parents or guardians, teachers, family, friends, communities, institutions, etc., could we have made it? We benefit from each other through public services: schools, roads, sanitation, police, fire, etc., all provided by dedicated, competent specialists. To enable them to excel in benefitting us all requires adequate taxation.
Graduated taxation is fair sharing of wealth to provide universal services in a civilized society. A flat-rate tax could destroy a minimum-wage worker’s family but won’t scratch a super-rich while diminishing the services needed, especially for the poor. Sharing wealth to benefit the whole was a Christian practice (Acts 2:44-46). Love your neighbor as yourself, pull others up by voting for strong graduated taxation!
Ke Chiang Hsieh
Midtown
Think about beauty
In this contentious time, think about the beauty of the planet, the desert and the mountains, the rainforest, coral reefs, and ice sheets. Climate change threatens them all.
NPR reported that the oceans have borne the greatest burden of rising temperatures, and reefs may be the first ecosystem destroyed. Carbon dioxide from fossil fuels makes the water more acidic, a death sentence for the coral. Without urgent action to save our reefs, this living species will be gone by the end of the century, during our children’s lifetime.
The time for fossil fuels is over. The US and 200 other countries agreed to reduce fossil fuels for the first time in decades of UN climate talks. The Biden Administration has acted with $623 million in grants to fund EV charging stations and ports across the U.S. In Arizona, school districts will receive Clean Bus Grants to fund electric buses.
Beauty deserves care. Beauty deserves justice. Vote for Biden.
Margaret Scott
Midtown
- Mary Price, Foothills
I am astonished by our country’s current focus on individuals, such as the Presidential Candidate. Yes, to be an effective leader, the President must have character, vision, and competence. But success also requires teamwork. I learned this from my father (a real Vice Admiral, U. S. Navy, Retired). He knew that the success of any operation depends on teamwork at multiple scales – from crews of single ships, to ships within a task force, to fleets, to the entire Navy. Any leader – whether my father or the President – is effective only with the backing of a competent, multi-level team rowing in the same direction. So please, let’s focus not just on individual candidates, but also on the vision, character, and expertise of the teams they assemble. Team Bidenocrat has a known record of moving in a direction consistent with fundamental values of our democracy. Team Trumpublican has no coherent platform other than to do whatever is needed to stay in power.
Mary Price
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Sheldon Clark, Vail
The recent guest opinion by Representatives Ciscomani and Sherrill regarding the introduction of the HEADWAY Act (Head Start Education and Development Workforce Advancement and Yield Act) is laudable. Leveraging resources is a great idea. Their op-ed cited the National Head Start Association (NHSA)who the Representatives claimed attributed the classroom vacancies, in part, “to staff shortages”. Arguably a more significant cause also posted by the NHSA is the House Appropriations Committee's proposed $750,000,000 reduction from the current FY23 funding a cut that "...will prevent roughly 80,000 children and their families from accessing Head Start and Early Head Start’s high-quality life-changing services."
Representative Ciscomani -did you also advocate for adequate Head Start funding?
Sheldon Clark
Vail
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Kent Blumenthal, Green Valley
Attempts by anti-Israel, pro-Palestinian sympathizers to coerce Tucson’s City Council to adopt a Resolution for an unconditional ceasefire in Gaza continues. The City Council must not be bullied into this. Rather, it should focus on Tucson matters.
I witnessed the illiberal anti-Israel lobby insist on a ‘ceasefire now.’ Few anti-Israel speakers acknowledged the October 7 atrocities when Hamas terrorists murdered and raped more than 1,200 people, with 240 kidnapped (130 still being held captive). Hamas violated five previous ceasefires, bringing more death and destruction, and vows to destroy Israel. Bullying the City Council is bad enough. Even worse is their obvious contempt for democratic institutions and freedoms that allow their voices to be heard. During the Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, several ‘ceasefire now’ proponents remained seated, disrespecting a Christian minister and the American flag. While Israel’s just war to remove Hamas terrorists from Gaza continues, democratic institutions in America are under threat.
Kent Blumenthal
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ted Frohling, Northeast side
I’m getting very tired of the point making from both sides of the political spectrum. The latest example is MTG at the state of the union yelling about the unfortunate murder of the nursing student by the illegal alien. Would she have interrupted if the perpetrator was an American?
Ted Frohling
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Kent Blumenthal, Green Valley
Attempts by anti-Israel and pro-Palestinian sympathizers to coerce Tucson’s City Council to adopt a Resolution for an unconditional ceasefire in Gaza continues. The City Council must not be bullied into this. Rather, it should focus on Tucson matters.
I saw how illiberal the anti-Israel lobby is to insist on a ‘ceasefire now.’ Few acknowledged the October 7 atrocities when Hamas terrorists murdered and raped more than 1,200 people in Israel with 240 kidnapped (130 still being held captive). Hamas violated five previous ceasefires, bringing more death and destruction, and vows to destroy Israel. Bullying the City Council is bad enough. Even worse is their obvious contempt for democratic institutions and freedoms that allow their voices to be heard. During the Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, several ‘ceasefire now’ proponents remained seated, showing no respect for a Christian minister or the American flag. While Israel’s just war to remove Hamas terrorists from Gaza continues, democratic institutions in America are under threat.
Kent Blumenthal
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Doug Pickrell, Midtown
On 2/21 I wrote an op-ed which was critical of Representative Ciscomani for supporting Speaker Mike Johnson,
who is obstructing aid to Ukraine and border security. Johnson opposes the former and is intent on preserving the latter as a campaign issue for Donald Trump. Contrary to David Eppihimer's insinuation on 3/10, I did not coordinate this op-ed with others.
I have written numerous times to Ciscomani's office. In my first few letters I repeatedly asked Ciscomani to explain why he voted to defund the Internal Revenue Service, or at least give me a reference to some written justification.
I never received a reply. More recently I begged Ciscomani to support aid for Ukraine. In reply I received a survey seeking my opinion concerning aid for Ukraine.
Probably like Eppihimer, I care about issues. It is apparently pointless for me to write to Ciscomani, so I write to the paper.
Doug Pickrell
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Barney Popkin, Foothills
As an observer of history and current events, it occurs to me that George Washington showed no interest in sending humanitarian aid the British, Abraham Lincoln didn’t aid the southern breakaway states during the Civil War, and FDR and Harry Truman definitely did not support aid to Nazi Germany, Imperial Japan, or Fascist Italy. Yet now in the 21 century, there’s an enormous movement to support Palestinian terrorist! How can this be explained? Love they enemy as thyself? Do unto others as you would have them do unto you? Or old fashion modernized anti-Semitism?
Barney Popkin
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David ben Avram, Marana
Re: Gaza woes, 10 March letter by Ms Furrer. The Man was explaining “this is not food to feed a family” referencing MREs (meals ready to eat). Some time ago when I was in the army MREs came packaged 24 to a box, two series of 12 meals. Of those 12 meals, 9 were made of pork products. I had to choose from the other three. Gazans do not have that choice. Keeping kosher is the same for Muslims as for Jews. Oh, the Gazans will eat the pork meals as they are starving. It would be easy to say someone was not thinking, dropping MREs. However, MREs are the only way to feed the masses in the shortest time. Great letter Elizabeth.
David ben Avram
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Debra Mantecon, East side
The good ole US of A is planning to build a floating pier in Gaza. Why aren't the fellow Muslim neighbor/states building piers and providing aid? After all, this neighborhood contains some of the richest countries in the world. Why aren't these wealthy neighbors opening up their borders to Gazans needing aid, shelter, food, etc.? The Saudi border is 200 miles from Gaza while the USA is almost 7,000 miles away! Not a rhetorical question but an honest to goodness inquiry.
Debra Mantecon
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- TOM MCGORRAY, Northwest side
Joe Biden was at it again with his "Fate of the Union" speech'. He said "This is a moment to speak the truth, to bury lies," It turned out to be a moment to speak lies and bury the truth.
His speech included misleading claims (lies) on inflation, crime, clean energy investments, wages and other subjects.
Biden boasted that under his leadership “wages keep going up.” Wages are down when adjusted for inflation.
Biden highlighted recent decreases in violent crime, but WDC, and Chicago know differently. The violent crime rates in the US are higher than they were in 2019.
Biden made it sound as if 8.2% was the standard tax rate billionaires pay today. It’s not: The actual average tax rate the top 1% of taxpayers pay is more than three times what Biden said: 25.6%, according to IRS data from 2019.
In summary, the border Is secure, the economy is great, crime is non -existent, and gas is dirt cheap. Way to go Pinocchio.
TOM MCGORRAY
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Steve Rasmussen, Foothills
So, once again we see Trump’s veneration of Orban, as seen by Donald’s invitation for him to visit Mar-a-Lago. Trump views Orban as a template for his future leadership. But what kind of leadership is that? Orban is hostile to immigration, even though Hungary has not had a problem with that issue. He believes in the “replacement theory”. He has cracked down on their free press by having his cronies control it. The elections in his country are now a sham. Religious institutions are now subject to his control, with some clergy being placed on his enemies list. Orban rules by cruelty and fear. He has stifled dissent in his nation. He has changed the courts to favor his positions by replacing judges. He has pressured businesses to align themselves with his political philosophy. If this sounds like fascism, you would be correct. Trump’s obsession with this sick man shows a similar sickness in Trump. Trump prefers fascism because it feeds his grandiose self-image.
Steve Rasmussen
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Mary Zimmerman, SaddleBrooke
It's disconcerting that only about 31% of the American voting public knows what Trump has in mind for his next term.
It's hard to believe that they know nothing about plans to arrest his political enemies, end reproductive rights, use the military to quell protest, and shred the Constitution. Then there is the matter of protecting our NATO allies. He has said that he would allow Putin to do "whatever the Hell he wants." Why is anyone supporting this madman? He has been found liable for sexual assault. He owes millions of dollars in fines. He has 91 criminal indictments. Most noteworthy, he tried to formulate a coup to overthrow the government. Is this really what you want for a President?
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Thomas Wenzel, East side
According to statistica, the percent of Americans identifying as non-binary has been increasing over the generations. In 2022, the percent of Generation z identifying as non-binary was 19.7 percent. Generation y ( or millinials) was 11.2 percent. Generation x was 3.3. Baby boomers was 2.7 and the silent Generation was 1.7 percent. There has been a great debate since the mid 1800's about how much of a person's characteristics we are born with and how much are acquired through interaction with our environment.. My question is: Do we have a higher percentage of nonbinary people because of changes to our genes caused by changes in our environment? Or do we have a higher percentage of non- binaries because of influencing from celebrities and social media personalities?
Thomas Wenzel
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Merle McPheeters, Midtown
The MAGA types say they wnt a strongman (one word)--an authoritarian who rules unilaterally. This genuinely puzzles me.
I would much prefer a strong man (two words--to lead our country. A man who is not insecure and boastful. A man who tells the truth. A man who admits a mistake. A man who is moral and doesn't cheat on his wife or in business. A man who doesn't bully or name call. A man wjho is ethical and does the right thing even when no one is watching. A man who serves militarily in time of need. A man who admits defeat and accepts responsibility for it.
My faith in the US electorate has been shaken by the millions who cast their votes for a strongman and not a strong man. I hope that changes this November and we don't elect a morally and intellecrtually bankrupt ego maniac to lead our country.
Merle McPheeters
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jack Graef, SaddleBrooke
Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts managed to elicit a “unanimous” vote on the Court's 14th Amendment ruling, but it was unanimously wrong because it ignored the central truth, Trump’s active engagement in an insurrection. The appearance of unanimity is misleading, despite reports of internal disagreement among the Justices. Roberts’ reportedly preeminent but impossible goal is to restore respect for the Court, but respect is earned by respectable behavior, not like its rulings on Roe, or the 14th Amendment, or Clarence Thomas’ ethical lapses, or Thomas’ conflict of interest manifested by his wife’s overt trump politicking. Yet, there sits SCOTUS, unwilling to confront or issue rulings unfavorable to trump. And there sits Thomas, unapologetic, unethical, blithely refusing to recuse himself from issues on which he has no business ruling, Trump cheers while the Country endures the legacy of Roberts’ Supreme Court.
Jack Graef
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David E. Leon, Vail
Congresswoman Greene blundered again. She made herself look stupid!! This woman claimed, Sandy Hook never happened!! Yet, she was worried about the woman killed in Georgia by a undocumented. Yet called Sandy Hook a ploy by Democrat's against bearing arm's. She agreed that child actors were used!! How sad the whole world saw this clown behaved at the ,State Of The Union address. Greene claims to be a graduate of U of Georgia. Her major idiotic lies! My Vietnam buddy in Australia watched her, " Performance " that night. Via Laptop.
David E. Leon
Vail
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Duane Harpet, Northwest side
Actually, I think the writer is noticing the wrong people discussing fair share taxes. Most of us wonder why billionaires who would have to pay millions in taxes seems to feel they will be going broke with only 950 million dollars left. I mean, that could only pay for another twenty yachts and 100 more vacation home.
Duane Harpet
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Tucson City Council bullied on ‘cease-fire now’
Attempts by anti-Israel and pro-Palestinian sympathizers to coerce Tucson’s City Council to adopt a resolution for an unconditional cease-fire in Gaza continues. The City Council must not be bullied into this. Rather, it should focus on Tucson matters.
I saw how illiberal the anti-Israel lobby is to insist on a ‘cease-fire now.’ Few acknowledged the Oct. 7 atrocities when Hamas terrorists murdered and raped more than 1,200 people in Israel, with 240 kidnapped (130 still being held captive). Hamas violated five previous cease-fires, bringing more death and destruction, and vows to destroy Israel. Bullying the City Council is bad enough. Even worse is their obvious contempt for democratic institutions and freedoms that allow their voices to be heard. During the Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, several ‘cease-fire now’ proponents remained seated, showing no respect for a Christian minister or the American flag. While Israel’s just war to remove Hamas terrorists from Gaza continues, democratic institutions in America are under threat.
Kent Blumenthal
Green Valley
Fare-free transportation
The concept of collecting fares on the bus or streetcar is outdated, inefficient, sometimes confusing, and surprisingly expensive. It creates conflict that drivers have to manage and a psychological barrier for new riders. We aren’t thinking creatively enough about how to pay fares and what counts as paying a fare. The “fare“ could be a surcharge added to your bar tab, an extra dollar or 2 on your hotel bill for a “visitor mobility pass” or a small fee added to our water and trash fees and treated as another utility. I would pay gladly, even if it were voluntary on my bill. If we broaden the idea of what is a fare and identify sources for more of us to contribute to those fares, then we are all paying into the system. I am more likely to use something I am already paying for, especially if all I have to do is walk on board.
Tim Warfield
Downtown
Thank you, Lady Wildcat basketball!
The UA women's basketball team has been fraught with so many obstacles this year, i.e., the loss of players due to injury, transfers, and a few players leaving the team to pursue their academic dreams, but they are not quitters! These seven women have stepped up at every game and given their everything to this team, and despite losing some, they left everything on the court every single time! Kudos to seniors Isis Beh, Helena Pueyo, and Esmery Martinez for your contributions to this fantastic team. You will be missed. As season-ticket holders we look forward to next season with great excitement for the team, especially with all of the great talent on board for the upcoming season. Coach Adia Barnes is top-shelf and will undoubtedly take next year's team even further. If you haven't seen them, you have missed out! Get your tickets now!
Terri Hicks
Northwest side
Robbins’ missing zero
While I perhaps should laud UA President Robbins for his voluntary 10% pay cut, I feel there should have been an additional zero added to the cut and he should be fired. While some have defended the dollar value of grants the university has attracted, how much really was due to his leadership versus the pre-existing excellence of this top research university? The significant deficit he incurred through poor decision-making in purchasing a low-quality, overpriced online program shows poor diligence and decision-making. The buck stops with the guy at the top, not just with the Board of Regents.
Donna Strain
Southeast side
Ciscomani — Investing in Head Start?
Re: the March 8 article "Investing in educators is investment in students."
The recent guest opinion by Representatives Ciscomani and Sherrill regarding the introduction of the HEADWAY Act (Head Start Education and Development Workforce Advancement and Yield Act) is laudable. Leveraging resources is a great idea. Their op-ed cited the National Head Start Association (NHSA), who the Representatives claimed attributed the classroom vacancies, in part, “to staff shortages.” Arguably a more significant cause also posted by the NHSA is the House Appropriations Committee's proposed $750,000,000 reduction from the current FY23 funding a cut that "... will prevent roughly 80,000 children and their families from accessing Head Start and Early Head Start’s high-quality life-changing services."
Representative Ciscomani — did you also advocate for adequate Head Start funding?
Sheldon Clark
Vail
Choosing our leaders
I am astonished by our country’s current focus on individuals, such as the presidential candidate. Yes, to be an effective leader, the President must have character, vision, and competence. But success also requires teamwork. I learned this from my father (a Vice Admiral, U. S. Navy, Retired). He knew that the success of any operation depends on teamwork at multiple scales — from crews of single ships, to ships within a task force, to fleets, to the entire Navy. Any leader — whether my father or the President — is effective only with the backing of a competent, multi-level team rowing in the same direction. So please, let’s focus not just on individual candidates but also on the vision, character, and expertise of the teams they assemble. Team Bidenocrat has a known record of moving in a direction consistent with fundamental values of our democracy. Team Trumpublican has no coherent platform other than to do whatever is needed to stay in power.
Mary Price
Foothills
Tired of the point-making by both camps
I’m getting very tired of the point-making from both sides of the political spectrum. The latest example is MTG at the State of the Union yelling about the unfortunate murder of the nursing student by an illegal alien. Would she have interrupted if the perpetrator was an American?
Ted Frohling
Northeast side
New baby elephant
Re: the March 9 article "Tucson newest baby elephant born Friday."
It was heartwarming to see the photo and article about Reid Park Zoo's new baby elephant on the front page. It has been a long wait of almost two years for this new "ambassador" for African Elephants to arrive. With poaching continuing in their native habitats, each birth is a triumph of survival.
Many thanks to the Reid Park Zoo staff and veterinary care team. Many volunteers helped to monitor expectant mother, Semba, during her long pregnancy, as well.
We will look forward to watching the herd welcome their new arrival at our next visit to the zoo.
Marlene C. Skinner
Southwest side
Give us sports fans a break
Re: the March 9 article "UA's Robbins gets deficit down to $176,868,400."
After reading Michael Chihak’s last three opinion pieces, I had an unstoppable urge to join the Wildcat Club. Robbins' biggest mistakes did not involve the athletic department.
Loraine Whitmore
Midtown
Why support Palestinian terrorists?
As an observer of history and current events, it occurs to me that George Washington showed no interest in sending humanitarian aid to the British, Abraham Lincoln didn’t aid the southern breakaway states during the Civil War, and FDR and Harry Truman definitely did not support aid to Nazi Germany, Imperial Japan, or Fascist Italy. Yet now, in the 21st century, there’s an enormous movement to support Palestinian terrorists! How can this be explained? Love thy enemy as thyself? Do unto others as you would have them do unto you? Or old-fashioned modernized anti-Semitism?
Barney Popkin
Foothills
Gaza woes revisited
Re: the March 10 letter "Gaza woes."
The man was explaining “this is not food to feed a family” referencing MREs (meals ready to eat). Some time ago, when I was in the army, MREs came packaged 24 to a box, two series of 12 meals. Of those 12 meals, 9 were made of pork products. I had to choose from the other three. Gazans do not have that choice. Keeping kosher is the same for Muslims as for Jews. Oh, the Gazans will eat the pork meals as they are starving. It would be easy to say someone was not thinking, dropping MREs. However, MREs are the only way to feed the masses in the shortest time. Great letter.
David ben Avram
Marana
Shame on you
To the person who damaged my car while it was parked at Reid Park near the De Meester Center on Saturday, March 9 and left without leaving a note — shame on you! You scraped my rear passenger side bumper, leaving several small holes in it. You must have noticed doing it as it would have been right outside your driver's window. Your failure to stop and take responsibility is selfish, rude, inconsiderate and actually against the law. Damaging a parked vehicle and not leaving a conspicuous note with your contact information is a Class 3 Misdemeanor in Arizona. I am now left to bear the cost of your boorish behavior myself. My only consolation is that I believe that everyone gets their due reckoning when they eventually arrive at the Pearly Gates — that is, if they have not gone the "other way" already.
Jane O'Regan
Northeast side
University of Arizona Musical Theatre program
This letter is intended more as a query, rather than an opinion.
I recently read in The Arizona Daily Star that The Marroney Theatre on The UA campus had recently had a very expensive renovation and makeover.
This theatre is the home of UA Musical Theatre and Dramatic Arts productions.
I also read recently in The Arizona Daily Star that the UA Is eliminating the Musical Theatre program entirely.
I am wondering why this expensive renovation was done for a theatre which will no longer be used.
If anyone out there has an answer to this query, I would love to hear it.
Opinionwise, I think it is an outright shame that UA is eliminating this outstanding musical theatre program. Every show I have seen there has been absolutely outstanding and is also very affordable to the general public.
Daniel Egan
East side
Imagined conspiracy of anti-Ciscomani letters
Re: the Feb. 21 article "Johnson and Ciscomani should both be sidelined" and the March 10 letter "Juan Ciscomani."
On Feb. 21 I wrote an op-ed which was critical of Representative Ciscomani for supporting Speaker Mike Johnson who is obstructing aid to Ukraine and border security. Johnson opposes the former and is intent on preserving the latter as a campaign issue for Donald Trump. Contrary to the letter writers insinuation on March 10, I did not coordinate this op-ed with others.
I have written numerous times to Ciscomani's office. In my first few letters I repeatedly asked Ciscomani to explain why he voted to defund the Internal Revenue Service or at least give me a reference to some written justification.
I never received a reply. More recently I begged Ciscomani to support aid for Ukraine. In reply, I received a survey seeking my opinion concerning aid for Ukraine.
Probably like the letter writer, I care about issues. It is apparently pointless for me to write to Ciscomani, so I write to the paper.
Doug Pickrell
Midtown
It's not just about abortion
While waiting outside the library one day recently, I listened to what was being said at the anti-abortion table. I heard these words: "This government isn't legitimate," "We the People are the government," "militia," "We're going to take down DC," "God is the boss." Good grief! So, I guess it's not just about abortion anymore.
Mel Strijdonk
Oro Valley
Role model
A recent letter lamented a lack of civility, along with disrespect, name-calling, sarcasm and lack of empathy for differing viewpoints in letters to the editor. Perhaps these writers are simply following Donald Trump's lead. Trump is the grand master of nastiness, name-calling, sarcasm, belittling words, disrespectful language, threats, and verbal rudeness and crudeness. His devotees love this. He has made such a nasty communication style mainstream and acceptable, helped along by the non-stop media coverage of his poisonous words and personality. It's totally predictable that this way of expression has been adopted by many. " Just sayin'..."
Deb Klumpp
Oro Valley
Gaza Pier
The good ole US of A is planning to build a floating pier in Gaza. Why aren't the fellow Muslim neighbor/states building piers and providing aid? After all, this neighborhood contains some of the richest countries in the world. Why aren't these wealthy neighbors opening up their borders to Gazans needing aid, shelter, food, etc.? The Saudi border is 200 miles from Gaza, while the USA is almost 7,000 miles away! Not a rhetorical question but an honest-to-goodness inquiry.
Debra Mantecon
East side
- Lynne Hudson, Northwest side
First-term Alabama Senator Katie Britt gave the Republican response to President Biden’s State of the Union speech. She was a good choice for the brand: young, attractive, articulate, and a model of family values. Her response was true to the brand as well. She painted an emotional and persuasive picture of a failed Biden presidency, but one that was also inaccurate and disingenuous. Her solution, too, was true to the brand. No newcomers are needed here. We are equipped to rebuild this country by virtue of our ancestry. Our gritty forefathers built this country. We will succeed, she said, because “we know their stories.” I wonder what stories our grandchildren will know if their textbooks are rewritten to erase uncomfortable truths. Will the arc of the moral universe bend toward justice if injustice is hidden from history?
Lynne Hudson
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bruce Gary, Sierra Vista
The fault, dear Mitch McConnell, is not in our stars. But in ourselves, that we are underlings. Shakespeare speaks to all generations.
Bruce Gary
Sierra Vista
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Thomas Wenzel, East side
Has anyone noticed that the people calling for the rich to pay their fair share of taxes either pays little or no taxes or receives government benefits?
Thomas Wenzel
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Neil Norton, Oro Valley
What is taking place in the Middle East is truely tragic. I don't understand why the blame seems to placed on Israel. We can't forget that Hamas is a governing body just like Israel. The one main difference is Israels army wear uniforms where Hamas wears everyday clothes and hide amongst those they govern. Hamas was elected into power by the people of Gaza. Hamas has preached since day one that Israel has no right to exist and should be totally wipped out. They have not returned the Hostages taken on Oct 7th and are using them as pawns. They raped and murdered in cold blood without provocation. Israel is now at war with another government to protect it's citizens. If Hamas had not attacked Israel and raped, murdered, and taken hostages, this tragic event would not be happening. Hamas in essence declared war on Israel. If Hamas would lay down their arms and return the hostages this tragedy would not be taking place.
Neil Norton
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Possible additional UA cash flow?
A few years ago, the Arizona Legislature found itself in a financial bind and sold, then leased back, the Arizona Capitol Building. The Legislature then repaid the lease in full when the state’s coffers allowed it.
Why couldn’t the UA sell, then lease back the new building being built just north of the McKale Center Parking Garage and near the Optical Sciences building? While it would be more expensive in the long run, the short run funding would save the jobs of those at the UA who did not have anything to do with the budgeting problems of the UA.
Also, understanding the need for following the guidelines of Title IX, I suggest the cutting of the Triathlon program, and both men’s and women’s cross country and tennis programs. After all, the UA Athletic Department had to cut the wrestling program years ago and even the synchronized swimming program that won a national championship.
We can’t afford everyone’s favorite program.
Matt Somers
Midtown
UA advisory committee
The recent story noting the creation of a University Advisory Council by UA President Robbins seemed to suggest that this Council would in some way satisfy the call for ‘shared governance.’ Hand-picked, meeting once a month, and incorporating faculty, staff and community members, all limited to providing advice on a specific set of issues. This is NOT shared governance. The President, of course, should hear as many voices as possible, so this Council is fine — but it is NOT a substitute for working with the elected officers of faculty governance. Faculty at the UA are distressed and indeed angry at the mess our administrators have created for us with decisions we had little or no part in and will not be put off by performative actions that change nothing.
My four years as Chair of the Faculty at the UA proved to me that good and productive interactions can exist between faculty and the president. We all need to get back to that kind of collaboration.
Lynn Nadel
Midtown
Alexei Navalny
In a salute to President Putin, the Russians have terminated one man, Alexei Navalny, while in his prison cell, sick and helpless. No doubt it took some bravado, but it needed to be done because Navalny unsettled Putin, who lives in a mausoleum. Now, this Dracula of the North can feel comfortable enough to keep to what he likes best, causing roiling misery. History is dotted with men who have done the like with bloody intent. Now, he stands tall with this frigid-hearted sort who specializes in hurt.
We have a candidate who fits that mold. Donald Trump has been waiting for the opportunity to be part of that craven lot. We think he’s got what it takes: arrogance, greed, narcissism and a goodly mean streak. Trump marks himself as a bottom-of-the-barrel degenerate. If given the chance, he is sure he can prove he is worthy of the worst.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Stop plutocracy
Superior Court Judge Scott McCoy rejected the second challenge to voter-approved Proposition 211 that requires disclosure of names of human large-dollar donors to political campaigns. Voters approved this measure known as Voters’ Right to Know by a 3 to 1 margin. The same two organizations suing this time successfully banned from the ballot voters’ previous attempt to “outlaw dirty money.”
The Arizona Free Enterprise Club and the Center for Arizona Policy argue that the law might lead to “harassment or retaliation” towards their donors for supporting unpopular positions. They were only able to provide the judge with a few emails showing “name-calling, offensive comments and criticism.” Nothing as egregious as the threats received daily by public servants performing election or judicial roles that displease these organizations or their endorsed candidates like Lake, Finchem, Horn, Biggs, Gosar and Ciscomani.
Before their well-funded appeal gets to the Supreme Court, we need to encourage Democrats to do something: impeach Justices Thomas and Alito or expand the Court. Stop plutocracy!
Dee Maitland
Marana
Good reasons, not conspiracy theory
ReL the March 2 letter “Letters to the editor.”
Good reasons explain the concerning letters to the editor regarding Ciscomani. This letter to the editor suggested that “a concerted effort to undermine Representative Juan Ciscomani” explained the numerous, almost daily “negative” letters and opinion pieces regarding Ciscomani.
The letter counted the many “negative” letters and opinions but failed to mention any of the reasons given for concern. Reasons like Ciscomani’s votes against adequately funding the IRS so that it could properly audit tax cheats. Or votes against continued funding for public education, while advocating for taxpayer funding of private schools. Or Ciscomani’s lack of support for women’s reproductive rights.
A recent Ciscomani survey asked which of the following statements about funding “Ukraine’s war against Russia” did we identify with. I chose “Other” and wrote that I support funding for Ukraine’s defense against Putin’s barbaric invasion.
Good reasons, not a conspiracy theory, explains concern for Juan Ciscomani.
Dave Gallagher
Foothills
SCOTUS slaps down Democrats
On March 4, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously, by a 9-0 ruling, slapped down the several Democrat-run states that have decided to remove Trump from the ballot in upcoming primaries and the general election in November. All Justices, including the four far left-wing ones, ruled with the majority. Democrat-run states like Colorado had the audacity to remove Trump from the voting ballot, claiming insurrection and citing the 13th Amendment. Well, first, Trump has not been charged with insurrection, much less convicted of it. The Justices saw this attempt as dangerous and an undermining of our election process (by Democrats). They correctly inferred that states could do this to anybody running for political office that they disagreed with, a weapon to go after political opponents. That has already happened with our state and federal justice systems. I would argue that Democrats, not Republicans, are now the real threat to our election process and to our Democracy. Trump was amateurish compared to what Democrats have done.
Gusher Adams
Midtown
Unbelievable
President Biden gave his State of the Union speech. He stated that all border problems can be resolved simply by passing the Senate border bill. This is a giant load of hogwash. The President currently has the authority to swarm Border Patrol agents to the border, has the authority to swarm asylum evaluators to the border, and has the authority to swarm asylum judges to the border. But he will not. WHY? What is the ulterior motive? In his speech, he noted that by taxing the rich at a higher level, think of the money available for various social services. In the same vein, if we were not supporting millions of lawbreaking newcomers, think of the billions of dollars that would be available for social services for our own citizens. The President and his Administration are a joke! A vote for Trump at least offers hope, while a vote for Biden will only continue and accelerate the pain this country is currently enduring.
Loyal M. Johnson Jr.
Oro Valley
Republicans, you need to choose
Republicans need to choose if they want democracy or if they are willing to give it away by following Trump down a very dark rabbit hole. Trump and his followers like to paint a dark picture of a country in decline that can only be saved by installing a strong-man type of government. While Joe Biden was giving his wonderful State of the Union speech, Trump was hosting Viktor Orban, the autocratic leader of Hungary, the type of leader Trump would like to be.
After Jan. 6, Mitch McConnell made sure Trump would not be impeached and barred from holding office. It’s clear the courts will not save us. The only thing that can ensure our democracy will prevail is the voters this November.
Republicans and Democrats can disagree on a lot of things, but we all need to agree that we don’t want to lose our form of government and our freedom. Once it’s gone, we won’t get it back.
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
Hypocrites
Congresswoman Greene blundered again. She made herself look stupid! This woman claimed Sandy Hook never happened. Yet, she was worried about the woman killed in Georgia by an undocumented immigrant. Yet called Sandy Hook a ploy by Democrats against bearing arms. She agreed that child actors were used. How sad the whole world saw this clown behave at the State of the Union address. Greene claims to be a graduate of U of Georgia. Her major idiotic lies! My Vietnam buddy in Australia watched her “performance” that night via laptop.
David E. Leon
Vail
Middle East conflict
Neil Norton expressed my concerns about the Hamas-Israel war perfectly. I only would add that the Palestinians have endured some oppression by Israel before the events of Oct. 7. Hamas needs to surrender and return the hostages. Hamas doesn’t care about the suffering of children. If it did, it would stop its bloody terror. It would do the right thing for its own people.
Maria Kross
Foothills
Kamala Harris V.P.
In some presidential election years, the V.P. nominee is very important. The 2024 election is one of these years. So was the 1944 election. Henry Wallace was FDR’s V.P. from 1940-44, but he was so far to the left and a communist sympathizer that FDR dropped him in favor of Harry Truman. If Wallace had been on the 1944 ticket, and then president on FDR’s death, there would have been no Marshall Plan, no NATO, no Truman Doctrine and no Berlin Air Lift. Kamala Harris has had a very low approval rating and a staff with high turnovers. She sought the presidential nomination for 2020 in January 2019, but she had so little support that she had to withdraw in December 2019, well before the primaries. Joe Biden is old and failing physically and mentally; and the unpopularity of Harris could cost the ticket up to two million votes. Can Biden afford Harris?
Douglas R. Holm
East side
Ciscomani takes advantage of renters
HSL Properties, one of Arizona’s nine major residential apartment landlords, is being sued by AZ Attorney General Kris Mayes for unduly raising rents for hundreds of thousands of Arizona renters in the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas.
By raising rents on their tenants, HSL Properties can now support an elected official who actively votes to gut funding for rental assistance programs and Section 8 housing. This elected official recently voted for a Republican spending bill that would cut support for direct housing loans by 30%.
Who is that elected official? Rep. Juan Ciscomani of Arizona’s Sixth Congressional District.
According to OpenSecrets, members and employees from HSL Properties donated over $40,000 to Ciscomani’s campaign in 2022 and $46,000 for his 2024 re-election.
Instead of providing lower costs for their tenants, HSL Properties is overcharging them. And Ciscomani is taking advantage of hard-working Arizonans by helping them.
Rep. Ciscomani votes against Arizonans who need his help.
Bobbi Zimmer
Midtown
Biden disclosed classified info
Special Counsel Robert Hur testified before Congress and was asked what motivated Joe Biden to willfully retain classified documents in different locations. He said the motivations were money and pride. Biden purposely kept classified documents as part of his plan to write a memoir for $8 million. After learning of a Special Counsel being appointed to investigate Biden, his book ghostwriter Mark Zwonitzer attempted to delete audio files of conversations with Biden containing classified information. Hur’s report said that Biden risked “serious damage” to America’s national security when he shared the classified information with Zwonitzer. Biden started meeting with him as Vice President. Remember how General Petraeus pleaded guilty to Mishandling Classified Materials for sharing his personal notebooks with his biographer mistress? Hur stated that no charges were brought against Biden because of not being able to show “intent.” Well, is earning $8 million from a memoir not proof of intent? Hur’s inexcusable and twisted rationale for not charging Biden further perpetuates beliefs of a two-tiered justice system.
Dorothy Monroe
Sierra Vista
- Maria Kross, Foothills
Neil Norton expressed my concerns about the Hamas-Israel war perfectly. I only would add that the Palestinians have endured some oppression by Israel before the events of Oct. 7th. Hamas needs to surrender and return the hostages. Hamas doesn't care about the suffering of children. If it did, it would stop its bloody terror. It would do the right thing for its own people.
Maria Kross
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Douglas R. Holm, East side
In some presidential election years, the V.P. nominee is very important. The 2024 election is one of these years. So was the 1944 election. Henry Wallace was FDR's V.P. from 1940 to 1944, but he was so far to the left and a communist sympathizer that FDR dropped him in favor of Harry Truman. If Wallace had been on the 1944 ticket, and then president on FDR's death, there would have been no Marshall Plan, no NATO, no Truman Doctrine and no Berlin Air Lift. Kamala Harris has had a very low approval rating and a staff with high turnovers. She sought the presidential nomination for 2020 in January 2019, but she had so little support that she had to withdraw in December 2019, well before the primaries. Joe Biden is old and failing physically and mentally; and the unpopularity of Harris could cost the ticket up to two million votes. Can Biden afford Harris?
Douglas R. Holm
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Mary Zimmerman, SaddleBrooke
Republicans need to choose if they want Democracy or if they are willing to give it away by following Trump down a very dark rabbit hole. Trump and his followers like to paint a dark picture of a country in decline that can only be saved by installing a strong man type of government. While Joe Biden was giving his wonderful State of the Union speech, Trump was hosting Viktor Orban, the autocratic leader of Hungary, the type of leader Trump would like to be.
After January 6, Mitch McConnell made sure Trump would not be impeached and barred from holding office. It's clear the courts will not save us. The only thing that can insure our democracy will prevail, is the voters this November.
Republicans and Democrats can disagree on a lot of things, but we all need to agree that we don't want to lose our form of government and our freedom. Once it's gone, we won't get it back.
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Loyal M Johnson Jr, Oro Valley
President Biden gave his State of the Union speech last night. He stated that all border problems can be resolved simply by passing the Senate border bill. This is a giant load of hogwash. The President currently has the authority to swarm Border Patrol agents to the border, has the authority to swarm asylum evaluators to the border, and has the authority to swarm asylum judges to the border. But he will not. WHY? What is the ulterior motive? In his speech, he noted that by taxing the rich at a higher level, think of the money available for various social services. In the same vein, if we were not supporting millions of lawbreaking newcomers, think of the billions of dollars that would be available for social services for our own citizens. The President and his Administration are a joke! A vote for Trump at least offers hope, while a vote for Biden will only continue and accelerate the pain this country is currently enduring.
Loyal M Johnson Jr
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Gusher Adams, Midtown
Today, 3/4/24, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously, by a 9-0 ruling, slapped down the several Democrat run states that have decided to remove Trump from the ballot in upcoming primaries and the general election in November. All Justices, including the four far left wing ones, ruled with the majority. Democrat run states like Colorado had the audacity to remove Trump from the voting ballot claiming Insurrection and citing the 13th Amendment. Well, first, Trump has not been charged with Insurrection much less convicted of it. The Justices saw this attempt as dangerous and an undermining of our election process (by Democrats). They correctly inferred that states could do this do anybody running for political office that they disagreed with, a weapon to go after political opponents. That has already happened with our state and federal justice systems. I would ague that Democrats, not Republicans, are now the real threat to our election process and to our Democracy. Trump was amateurish compared to what Democrats have done.
Gusher Adams
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dorothy Monroe, Sierra Vista
Special Counsel Robert Hur testified before Congress and was asked what motivated Joe Biden to willfully retain classified documents in different locations. He said the motivations were money and pride. Biden purposely kept classified documents as part of his plan to write a memoir for $8 million. After learning of a Special Counsel being appointed to investigate Biden, his book ghost writer Mark Zwonitzer attempted to delete audio files of conversations with Biden containing classified information. Hur's report said that Biden risked "serious damage" to America's national security when he shared the classified information with Zwonitzer. Biden started meeting with him as Vice President. Remember how General Petraeus pleaded guilty to Mishandling Classified Materials for sharing his personal notebooks with his biographer mistress? Hur stated that no charges were brought against Biden because of not being able to show "intent." Well, is earning $8 million from a memoir not proof of intent? Hur's inexcusable and twisted rationale for not charging Biden further perpetuates beliefs of a two tiered justice system.
Dorothy Monroe
Sierra Vista
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ron Lancaster, North side
In a salute to President Putin, the Russians have terminated one man, Alexei Navalny, while in his prison cell, sick and helpless. No doubt it took some bravado, but it needed to be done because Navalny unsettled Putin, who lives in a mausoleum. Now this Dracula of the North can feel comfortable enough to keep to what he likes best, causing roiling misery. History is dotted with men who have done the like with bloody intent. Now he stands tall with this frigid-hearted sort who specializes in hurt.
We have a candidate who fits that mold. Donald Trump has been waiting for the opportunity to be part of that craven lot. We think he’s got what it takes, arrogance, greed, narcissism, and a goodly mean streak. Trump marks himself as a bottom-of-the-barrel degenerate. If given the chance he is sure he can prove he is worthy of the worst.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
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