Tucson speaks up: Letters to the editor for the week of Sep. 26, 2025
- Updated
Our weekly round-up of letters published in the Arizona Daily Star.
Financial boycotts work
It was gratifying to hear that Jimmy Kimmel has been reinstated to appear on his late-night show on ABC. Mr. Kimmel’s comments were viewed as a political slam against the right wing, which supported Charlie Kirk. MAGA republicans applauded President Trump’s FCC chair Brendan Carr for pressuring Disney and ABC to suspend the show.
Freedom of speech is central to our democracy and designed to allow different points of view. The overwhelming backlash confirmed that the First Amendment is worth protecting. I think what really helped Disney decide to reinstate Jimmy Kimmel is that people expressed their discontent by canceling their subscriptions to Disney and Hulu, along with plummeting Disney stock. Over a four-day period, Disney lost $3.87 billion.
We, the people, have the power to make our voices heard, not only through protest but also with our wallets. This may be the most effective way to stop the current president and his administration from imposing policies that ignore our Constitution.
Gail Schumacher
Southwest side
Border czar bribery inquiry
Fox News’ Laura Ingraham’s relevant question to the border czar Tom Homan was, did you take $50,000 from undercover FBI agents? And instead of answering “no,” Homan said, “I did nothing illegal.” But because the Trump administration is a corrupt kleptocracy, it’s no wonder that his DOJ and FBI closed the investigation this past summer, which had begun in the summer of 2024. According to reporting, the FBI recorded Tom Homan taking a bribe from supposed business leaders for securing government contracts, should Trump win the election. Congress must reopen an investigation and subpoena Tom Homan to appear and answer direct questions under oath. Let’s not let this story disappear like the Jeffrey Epstein files.
Karen Allison
Three Points
Rep. Gosar’s bill, H.R. 5392
To the Editor:
Rep. Gosar’s bill, H.R. 5392, would nullify Ironwood National Monument and ignore the city’s profound respect and continued appreciation of this historic monument. The monument offers local residents the opportunity to hike, hunt and camp. Not to mention being a home for 674 species, many of which are federally listed as threatened or endangered. Opening the monument for copper and gold mining is insulting to this wide range of biodiversity and the local residents that enjoy the land.
Ironwood National Monument is integral to Tucson’s identity. Our Marana Town Council even approved Resolution NO. 2025-075, which represents the unanimous official opposition to shrinking the boundaries and the opening of the monument for extraction, mining exploration and potential development.
Our city and public land deserve better than opening this area up for mining.
I urge Rep. Ciscomani to oppose this bill.
Kaya Byrd
Marana
Kirk memorial
I hear that tens of thousands appeared at the memorial service for Charlie Kirk. A man who, though not deserving of his demise, was definitely not a person to be anointed with oil. People say I lack empathy, and while I am sorry for his death, I know he was not a hero to me. Answer a question, you who so gladly attended his services, what about the myriad of innocent school children gunned down in our streets almost every month? Where were you when their funerals were taking place? I suspect you were just “ho hum” and going on with your life. Please don’t insult reality by suggesting that you are patriots or that you truly care because you obviously do not. You only espouse the bragging, lying, bullying of your fearless leader. This is what you want, don’t deny it. You reap what you sow.
Philip Reinecker
East side
A wicked wit?
I believe your “conservative” LTR writer from Oro Valley has been misinterpreted. To my mind, he is a brilliant comedian with a wicked, sly wit. His recent letter complaint about a lack of published conservative letters was a prime example, as he seems to be published weekly.
His pièce de résistance so far, however, was his trumpeting of this administration’s law and order stance. With a convicted felon at the helm who pardons thousands of fellow felons and appoints one of them as an ambassador, who daily violates settled law, the Constitution and Posse Comitatus, this accolade has to be the penultimate tongue-in-cheek pronouncement.
Writing in this style must be an effort to avoid the authoritarian censorship currently be applied to administration dissenters, but I hope the Star will give him his own Opinion column as his consistent send-up of this administration is not to be missed.
I look forward to his next LTE and hope someday this closet Democrat has the courage to come out.
Todd Ackerman
Foothills
Facts vs. fear
Again, a LTE makes claims about immigrant crime without substantiating the comments. A study in Texas showed the murder rate among native born citizens is three times greater than immigrants. The rape statistic shows native-born people commit rape at twice the rate as illegal persons. All statistics from a variety of sources show the writer was making exaggerations and bogus claims. It’s a broad brush that paints people coming to the USA as rapists, murderers, thieves and dangerous people. We already have a bunch of people stoking fear and mistrust of anyone who isn’t white. It seems the melting pot has become the boiling pot, stirred up by ignorance and prejudice.
John Kautz
Midtown
Trump and the Fed
I read with interest “Faulting the Fed” in Monday’s paper. Paul Vallas’ comments against the Fed were ridiculous. Bill Dudley’s comments were much more correct.
Behind the concern for the Fed is Donald Trump and his nihilistic economic policy. After destroying the American fiscal future by having a mindless, puppet-like MAGA Congress pass his “Big Beautiful Bill,” he wants to destroy the monetary present by lowering interest rates to near or below zero. I still remember that in his first term he wanted the Fed to lower interest rates below zero like Japan. Now, because of the economic damage, even Japan is raising rates. Negative interest rates are to fight deflation and stimulate growth. We have no deflation. Trump’s economic policy of tariffs, and their illogical use, is the only thing holding back real growth. Seriously, are you better off today than a year ago?
It is too bad for the country that 90% of those voting for Trump in 2024 voted against their own economic self-interest.
Matt Somers
Midtown
And the stats say ...
Re Sept. 23 LTE: Avoidable.
The conservative Cato Institute states, from 2010-23, native-born citizens committed more crime per capita than immigrants. Illegal immigrants committed more crime than legal immigrants. According to the Cato Institute, overall crime rates have been decreasing since 2010. 2024 statistics did not provide per capita information, i.e., inherently useless data.
To “prevent” crime, native-born citizens should be deported before illegal and legal immigrants. Odds are, a person is more likely to be a crime victim perpetrated by a native-born citizen.
But that’s OK. In the MAGA reality, facts are myth, myths are fact and what you want to believe defines your perception and your reality.
James Abels
Midtown
Going where?
Where is our country headed? The land of the free and the home of the brave is no longer as free nor as brave when compared to earlier times.
We watch our freedoms being eroded constantly. We are no longer fearless in speaking our minds. Now we are hesitant to criticize our government’s actions. Comedy used to be a form of relief, but even that is being taken away. Censorship is now the rule, not the exception. America is turning ugly to the point where many are leaving the country, hoping for a better life elsewhere.
It is a shameful happening. This formerly was the country where our forebears embraced its shores. Immigration was a welcoming word. Everything seems to have turned upside down.
Yet many are happy with the country’s direction and leadership. Complacency reigns as long as there is no talk of gun control, minority rights, or such values. No need to be watchful. Big Brother will provide.
We are spinning out of control.
Fred Abood
Green Valley
Opening a package
Congratulations, packaging designers of America. You’ve done it: you’ve invented a product so secure it doubles as a body armor for the item inside. I bought a three-pack of scissors the other day — because, naturally, the only thing standing between me and opening anything in this house is exactly one of those scissors — and then I discover the twist: The scissors themselves are encased in industrial-grade Fort Knox plastic.
Seniors, parents, busy people and anyone whose fine motor skills peaked in high school have two choices when presented with such packaging: (a) try to pry plastic apart with fingernails or (b) walk your purchase back to the store and explain why you’re returning an unopened — but unopenable — set of scissors.
May I humbly propose a radical new design concept: the tear strip or a little perforated tab. Heaven forbid that people can open their purchased goods without needing an engineering degree or a visit to the emergency room to suture a gash from the package.
Lawrence Mazin
SaddleBrooke
Afraid of the U.S.
Not long ago, the U.S. posted travel warnings to Sonora because of narco violence. Recently, we visited José Ríos and Lucía Carrilo in their home in Santa Ana. He is 82 years old, a retired teacher, museum director, municipal historian, and a talented artist. Recent sicario (cartel assassins) battles in nearby El Claro and Trincheras did not alarm them. Normal life goes in in this vibrant community. Lucía said that they were afraid to revisit the U.S. and chose to let their passports expire. Narco violence in Mexico is mostly internal, not toward normal citizens or American visitors. My wife and I have safely traveled in Sonora for 30 years. Trump’s masked ICE agents are detaining Mexican illegals and citizens without all over the country and put them in unhealthy tent detention camps. It is shameful that our neighbors are afraid to visit Arizona.
Tom Van Devender
North side
Following in his bootsteps
Horst Wessel was a member of the Nazi Party, who became a propaganda symbol in Nazi Germany following his murder in 1930 by two members of the Communist Party of Germany (KPD). Nazi Propaganda Minister Joseph Goebbels elevated him into a martyr. Wessel’s funeral was given wide attention with the Nazi elite in attendance. A march for which he had written the lyrics was renamed the “Horst Wessel Song” and became the official anthem of the Nazi Party.
When The MAGAs come out with a song for Charlie Kirk, you will know which way we are headed.
Dale Emmel
Southeast side
Good people — isn’t that enough?
I notice that so many of our politicians reference the Christian faith as the be-all and end-all. JD Vance did at Charlie Kirk’s funeral service. He basically said everyone must be a Christian. I was raised Christian, and I imagine I consider myself Christian. However, that does not define whether I am a good person.
At the risk of sounding redundant, I know many people, of many different beliefs, who are not Christian but are good people.
Why don’t we tweak this a bit and refer to people as just people? I still believe most are good, and I have 68 years on this planet. I’m no expert, but it seems to me that in this time we don’t’ need to create any divides. We are doing this all by ourselves.
Jenni Morrison
North side
Cat nuisance
In early January, my greyhound, Geordie, was bitten by a cat. This cat entered our backyard uninvited, as many neighborhood cats do. Geordie is not cat safe, and a scuffle ensued. His recovery took four painful, exhausting and expensive months. He could have died, and he was in jeopardy of having his leg amputated.
American Bird Conservancy says outdoor domestic cats are a recognized threat to global diversity as they have contributed to the extinction of 63 species of birds, mammals and reptiles in the wild.
According to All About Birds, cats kill 1.3 billion to 4 billion birds each year in the U.S. alone.
Cats do not need to live outdoors. They are a nuisance. They taunt my high prey drive dog in his own yard. And they use my yard as a toilet.
We are doing our best to keep our yard cat-free humanely. But I still see the occasional cat sauntering through our yard.
Humans created this problem. And humans need to fix it.
Ann Chihak Poff
East side
Project Blue is a glutton
In 2022, we were in the second decade of our worst drought. Gov. Ducey signed $1B for AZ crucial continuing growth. It was spent on budget shortages. We said no to Project Blue, not just water and power consumption, but mystery NDAs, lies, undisclosed third site. TEP, SRP & APS request DOE grant for site selection process and early site permit application for new nuclear generation site (nuclear power plant?).
Cooling issue becomes a power problem. AI states have experienced well water depletion or other water supply issues from nearby data centers. DC leaders have targeted oil, national forests and minerals for depletion. Data centers accelerate needs for land, water & power as they grow internationally. The centers are greedy, offering few jobs other than AI once construction is finished. Land acquisitions grow by thousands of acres. More AI means more utility costs. Can our fragile desert survive it?
Bea Manderscheid
Northeast side
Free speech
Re “Democrats complaining about the suppression of free speech”: The Biden administration’s goal was to “de-platform” content that advocated or incited violent action, not to “silence those they disagreed with”. Attempts to keep Trump off the ballot were based on his incitement of a violent insurrection, a result of his incessant lies about the 2020 election. If pro-life activists were arrested, it was for blocking access to abortion clinics, not for “singing and praying”. Conservative speakers face challenges on many college campuses, but few are “denied access” without a valid reason. Charlie Kirk was killed by an unstable white male with a gun who seemed to feel Kirk was a purveyor of hate speech. Kirk had every right to speak his mind, but Mr. Rusciolelli’s belief that Kirk was focused on “God, family and country” whitewashes the misogyny, racism and xenophobia that was consistently spewed by Kirk. God, family and country should encompass more than white, Christian males.
Hope Gastelum
East side
Tucson is not handicapped-accessible
To the Mayor and governor and city council, want to see how hard it is for someone (about 15% of the population in Tucson and over 13% in the state) who is disabled to get around Tucson? Roads are torn up for years (I live Grant/Alvernon and the construction isn’t completed after more than the 3 yrs I’ve lived here), few sidewalks (many that are there need replacing as tree roots force them up or they’re cracked or missing). Recently, the city hired a tree trimming service that blocked the sidewalk for almost a whole block (there was nearby parking available for most of the trucks), which forced me (and other disabled people) to go in the street. Since the city hired them, if I had been hit — and almost was — I would have sued the city. Powers that be: Contact me to go on a “walkabout” and see Tucson is not “handicapped friendly.”
Jessica Edwards
Midtown
Classless thug
The past few nights I have had the opportunity to see interviews with Emmanual Macron of France and Lius Lula da Silva of Brazil. As I listened, I was so impressed with both of these leaders’ clarity of thought and articulation of concepts. Then I hear Trump. A classless thug espousing hatred and retribution at a funeral. Is this who we have become? Are we being led and represented by a cheap reality show rube? We have to look pretty stupid on the world stage. What Trump does and says is who the world thinks we all are. Wake up.
Richard Bechtold
West side
They know not what they do
There have been several recent letters stating that Charlie Kirk was a misogynist, a bigot, a racist and an idiot; one such writer made these claims after having “read a number of his quotes.”
If one were to watch an hour of his debates on college campuses (readily available), one would know that none of these adjectives could be accurately used to describe him. Kirk has many thousands of women and people of color among his followers; he was a devout, unabashed Christian and spoke Biblical truth; and his beliefs were the antithesis of those abhorrent attributes those writers ignorantly attempt to ascribe to him.
Quotes can be taken out of context, and often are in this age of blatant bias and cold-heartedness. In the future, maybe do some research before you label another in such a mean-spirited and ignorant manner.
Richard Peddy
East side
Homan bribery inquiry
I have two items to discuss:
1) The political cartoons in the Sept. 23 Star were the best EVER!
2) In the old phrase “nothing to see here” perfectly describes the Trump sudden need to abort the investigation of “border czar” Homan accepting a $50,000 bribe from an undercover FBI agent. Their reason — it was an attempt by the Biden administration to” entrap one of the president’s top allies” which if true one must believe that Biden was/is clairvoyant. I feel compelled to ask your readers if they were approached by a businessman offering them $50,000 to rig a bid, would they gladly accept? If they answer “yes,” then they are in good company with the Trump ethics board. If, on the other hand, they answer “no,” then they must make their outrage heard and let the powers in Washington understand that it is unacceptable to place criminals in charge of law enforcement.
Robert Cozad
Oro Valley
Vindictive Trump
I briefly listened to Mrs. Kirk’s statement at her husband’s memorial, where she forgives the man who assassinated her husband. Following her comments, Trump proudly announced, “I’m not like that. I wish them bad. I hate. I don’t forgive”.
His MAGA — Make America Go Away — is working. He has lied from the get-go. Information coming from him and his administration is much worse than any talk show personality can jab at. And he has plenty to jab at.
Nancy Reid
South Tucson
Crime in D.C.
Rep. Andy Biggs of Gilbert is accusing D.C. attorney general Brian Schwalb of abuse of power for trying to control gun sales in D.C. Now, let me see, does anyone happen to know someone in D.C. who is also abusing his power?
Donald Bernier
Midtown
Epstein and Maxwell were accomplices
Both received favorable treatment from the Trump administrations.
Why are we not demanding the truth? This is a huge concern for many Americans.
And the rising costs on most everything due to tariffs. They are hurting all of us.
Time to find the truth.
Too many distractions. Sleight of hand games. Follow all laws and resist.
Dan Bannon
Midtown
The box score
Great New Yorker baseball writer Roger Angell penned a book titled “The Summer Season,” all about our national pastime during the 1960s. In it, he devoted an entire chapter to a seemingly insignificant sports section item, the box score.
Many baseball fans agree with Angell when he declared: “A box score is more than a capsule archive; it is a precisely etched miniature of the game itself, for baseball is the most satisfyingly mathematical of all our outdoor sports.” Consider that, please.
In 1941, my father, reading the box scores in the Chicago Tribune, exclaimed, “DiMaggio did it again!”
Joltin’ Joe had extended his hitting streak to 50 games. Eight years old, I was now hooked on the box score as a source of info on all teams and players in the big leagues.
Not long ago, the Star used to print a full page of box scores of every game played the previous day.
We fans miss those pages.
Jerry Helm
Northwest side
Vaccines
Ms. Schneider was correct in all she said about now preventable diseases as she focused on potential residuals. There are other aspects worth mention. When the child has a really high fever, say 105, someone has to stay home and use ice to try to control the fever. When the child is writhing in pain from mumps, again someone needs to be there.. Polio is another, much worse, issue.
Prevention is so easy. The child’s suffering and parental remorse are all avoidable.
If today’s parents do not have grandparents or great-grandparents to provide first-hand input, visit a retirement home or other gathering place for people who have experienced these diseases and ask.
Clarence Johnson
Oro Valley
- Mary Zimmerman, SaddleBrooke
Trump is in his garish Oval Office complaining that 97 percent of the media is against him. He thinks the problem is the media. There never was a man so totally incapable of introspection. What ever happened to his defense of free speech? The voters who elected a criminal should not be surprised that we now have a fascist bully in the White House.
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Cruz for free speech?
I was surprised to see Sen. Ted Cruz stand up to Trump’s call for the FCC to censor his critics. As a lawyer he should have an understanding of the importance of First Amendment rights, but I didn’t think that would override his loyalty to Trump.
My analysis was flawed. He wasn’t concerned about protecting Americans’ primary constitutional right. Rather, he said that if the government starts punishing free speech, “Let me tell you what will happen: Going down this road, there will come a time when a Democrat wins again, wins the White House,” he added. “They will silence us, they will use this power, and they will use it ruthlessly. And that is dangerous.”
It appears it wasn’t a commitment to free speech, but rather a fear that others would use the dictatorial power of his “Dear Leader” against him!
Bruce Hilpert
North side
First Amendment
So many Democrats complaining about the suppression of free speech. Where were they when the Biden administration was pushing social media companies to de-platform those they didn’t agree with? Where were they when Democrat states were trying to keep Trump off the ballot and deny conservatives the right to vote for the candidate of their choice? Where were they when the Biden administration was arresting pro-life activists for singing and praying outside abortion clinics? Where were they when conservative speakers were being shouted down or even denied access to college campuses? I wonder where all those Democratic voices were when Charlie Kirk was assassinated for exercising his free speech. Some decried political violence, but far too many celebrated and even said he deserved what he got. Killed for expressing his views on God, family and country. Spare me your angst if you can’t see the hypocrisy.
Dan Rusciolelli
East side
Right-wing ‘truths’
As if RFK Jr. weren’t filling the air with lies and nonsense that will result in many deaths, we have Brian Kilmeade of Fox saying that homeless people should be executed, Joe Rogan saying that the moon landings were faked, and Charlie Kirk backing “replacement theory,” the belief that Jews and others are working for replacement of white people in the US by other race. Worst of all, Kirk claims that gun rights are God-given.
And we have Trump obviously afraid of Putin: Why? It must be because Putin could at any time spill the beans that Russia did in fact help the Trump campaigns (it wouldn’t even have to be true). Social media are a political and moral disaster.
Herbert Schneidau
Foothills
TEP rates
Jason Rademacher’s op-ed piece in defense of TEP rates is an exercise in statistical whimsy. While he compared average residential costs both local and national, and average annual increases of only 2.1% over the past 25 years, he failed to mention the 25% increase in rates between 2020 and 2023 (Arizona Daily Star, June 10, 2025), or the recent request to increase rates an additional 14%. It brings to mind the Mark Twain quote: “Facts are stubborn, but statistics are more pliable.”
Sheldon Clark
Vail
Consider this
Re: “Things to consider” letter (Sept. 20):
Among “things to consider” in the letter, one concern is religious people ignoring the plight of the homeless, as if all religious people have “guilt by association.” Putting aside that broad accusation, an untold number of homeless people intend to be homeless, despite the fact that state and local municipal governments have programs to assist them. Many homeless people would rather be homeless than work for a living. I just got back from Atlantic City, N.J., after a reunion with cousins from Texas, Virginia and New Jersey. On the boardwalk around the casinos, we were accosted several times from seemingly homeless people. Always being hit up for money. There are electronic signs advising not to give them money. Why? Because it’s known the money will likely go towards drugs, alcohol or cigarettes. Even when I was homeless for over a year, I went to work every day, all vices excluded.
Daniel Pryor
West side
Vaccines
I am over 70 and feel sorry for all the young children that will be harmed by Robert Kennedy Jr. no-vaccine mandate. What is very sad is that the parents today have never experienced or known someone who has been impacted with mumps, chicken pox, measles, whooping cough, polio. My sister had measles over 70 years ago and was in bed for weeks, drapes drawn and after “recuperating” ended up with a learning disability. I had friends who could not walk for years but eventually were able with noticeable gaits. Men I knew later were sterile due to mumps. Wake up, young parents, and protect your children as your parents did for you.
Mary Beth Schneider
East side
Trump and the media
Trump is in his garish Oval Office complaining that 97 percent of the media is against him. He thinks the problem is the media. There never was a man so totally incapable of introspection. What ever happened to his defense of free speech? The voters who elected a criminal should not be surprised that we now have a fascist bully in the White House.
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
Avoidable
Every time a criminal illegal alien molests or kills a young woman, the absolute fact is that it was preventable. It is occurring over and over because the previous Administration allowed unvetted illegals into the country and the legal system refused to remove them when they committed previous crimes. Realize that these maimings and killings by illegals are the fault primarily of the Biden Administration. Violent crime will be reduced, not only by aggressively removing criminal illegals, but also by prosecuting career citizen criminals, a whole different category. Just imagine that your daughter was killed by an illegal and you realize it was preventable. It would be extremely difficult to get your arms around that tragedy and may very well destroy you knowing it could have been prevented. Folks, these types of crime can be and should be prevented, no excuses.
Loyal M. Johnson Jr.
Oro Valley
Heroes
Individuals recognized for their extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and contributions to all are heroes. A hero embodies courage, selflessness, and a commitment to the greater good, impacting society positively through extraordinary acts of service, leadership, or sacrifice. Heroes can be historically significant figures or less famous individuals such as first responders and ordinary citizens who act courageously during a crisis, like those who responded to 9/11. They advocate for justice by facing life’s challenges, holding strong positive moral principles, and dedicating themselves to making the world a better place. Examples include first responders, dedicated teachers, selfless volunteers. A divisive person is not a hero. Heroes support justice. Heroes are uniting. People who spread hope. People who go above and beyond. Peace inducing. Compassionate. Gabby Giffords, courageous and strong. The Dalai Lama advocated policies of nonviolence and showed concern for global environmental problems. Achievers of noble goals. Greta, a climate change hero.
Peter Bisschop
East side
Really?
I had to laugh at the letter “LTEs by Dems” — yet another Biden-bashing litany. The author ends the letter saying “Too many politicians are egocentric narcissists.” Can it possibly be lost on the letter writer that “his guy” tops the list of egocentric, narcissistic politicians? Mind-boggling!
Deb Klumpp
Oro Valley
More corruption
Trump is directing the DOJ to prosecute his political enemies “now.”
The Pentagon is banning journalism.
The FCC is targeting critics of the President to get them taken off the air.
Trump’s border czar took cash bribes then Patel dropped the case.
Trump honors a racist bigot and tells Democrats he hates them.
All in one week.
Terry Louck
East side
Facts or fear?
As the rhetoric escalates over the issue of political violence, Trump and his supporters have made vitriolic claims about the prevalence of violent attacks by the “radical left” individuals and organizations while largely dismissing incidents of right-wing domestic terrorist attacks. Accusations are many, but facts are few.
Fortunately, the National Institute of Justice, a division of the Department of Justice devoted “to improving knowledge and understanding of crime and justice issues through science,” has completed an extensive study on this issue. In a report published in June 2024, it found that since 1990, far-right extremists committed 227 incidents that killed 520 people; far-left radicals committed 42 acts that killed 78.
Will these facts play a role in this debate? Probably not. Especially since Pam Bondi’s Justice Dept. recently removed this report from the Justice Department’s website. So much for a factual debate.
Bruce Hilpert
North side
LTEs by Dems
I appreciate your attempts to defend your party.
But where were you when Biden allowed thousands of evil people to just walk into our country? Where were you when Biden did little to stop the flow of deadly drugs into America? Where were you when Biden tried to destroy women’s sports? Where were you when Biden (the racist) said that he would only name a Black or African American woman to the Supreme Court?
Too many politicians are egocentric narcissists.
James McFarren
East side
Free speech cuts both ways
I never heard of Charlie Kirk until he was killed. Since, I have read a number of his quotes that thoroughly convinced me that he was a racist, a bigot, a misogynist and an idiot when it came to defending the Second Amendment. A few must die to defend it? I bet he didn’t think he’d be one of the defenders.
I understand that Kirk was an advocate for totally free speech. So when he spewed hate, it was protected speech. Imagine that. But hate speech is indeed protected speech.
But now that Kirk is a far-right hero, anyone who doesn’t view him that way is damned for not doing so. School districts, governors, the Secret Service and the hillbilly VP, who wants all who speak against Mr. Kirk to be fired, hanged, pilloried or whatever, have determined that free speech is only available to those who agree with them. Welcome to Trump’s world.
Jim Rapp
Southeast side
Give despotism a chance, people
Far-right leaders are having “fun, fun, fun ’til Daddy takes the T-bird away.”
One of the great things about being a popular dictator is that you can perform gymnastic feats that ordinary citizens could never get away with.
For instance, Israel’s far-right Benjamin Netanyahu recently argued in an Israeli court that he can’t be held accountable at this time for the three major domestic crimes he has been charged with because he is in the middle of important foreign affairs. He is too busy committing international war crimes in Gaza.
This is the same argument Trump convinced Chief Justice John Roberts to make in America in SCOTUS’ presidential immunity decision. While he is in office for four years, Roberts says President Trump can’t be held accountable for crimes he commits during the course of his official duties.
You gotta give despotism a chance to do its thing before making judgments.
Kimball Shinkoskey
Woods Cross, Utah
‘Calling out ...’ called out well
Kudos to Melissa Cordero for her piece, “Calling out those who fan flames” (Star, Sept. 18). The well-written piece addressed a serious matter at hand today. Attacks on a council member showed just how convoluted the rhetoric from the right has gotten. Deflecting via projecting seems to be the M.O. of the day for so many of them. Sure, there’s enough to go around on all, but we’re seeing this more and more as the base premise coming out of (take your pick ...) the right, the GOP, MAGA, Fox, etc. But to call people out for speech “violations,” while so actively pouncing on as many as possible themselves, in an effort to control or dominate news cycles, get away with rants, or just re-flavor the cult cocktails being guzzled endlessly is plain old hypocrisy. Period. This needs calling out. Again, thanks, Melissa, for your spot-on piece.
Neil Commenator
East side
Chaos in the United States
I grew up as a Democrat. I changed my affiliation in the ’80s to Republican. In the very late ’90s, I changed again to Independent because I felt it was important to vote for the person, not the party. But now, I am changing again to Democrat and I will vote a straight ticket as a Democrat. Our United States is no longer united; it is divided, and it is totally due to one person and his minions. Our country is now laughable with China, Russia and Israel. I cannot condone the Nazi behavior taking place by the President’s administration. It is shameful. I do not have many years left, but I fear for my children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Wake up, America. Do something.
Vicky Smith
Marana
Pro cycling’s local rider
Tucson-born Matthew Riccitello, 23, recently came in fifth place in the three-week Pro Cycling Grand Tour La Vuelta A Espana (Tour of Spain). He also won the white jersey as best young rider. These are major accomplishments in the world of pro cycling. Tucson claims to be a cycling city, and I was extremely disappointed that there was not one mention of Matthew’s accomplishments during the entire three weeks of the race. Matthew deserves some recognition from his hometown.
Sheelagh Riekena
Oro Valley
Don’t you sometimes wish
Be honest with me, folks, don’t you sometimes wish that you could turn on the news without a threat, bluster, brag or promise from our fearless leader? Maybe a president who explains the good things about our country and doesn’t lie about how wonderful it’s going to be next week when he eliminates crime, immigration, malcontents or anyone who has the audacity to dispute any little thing he mutters. I know perfection isn’t possible, but why promise Eden when so much less is accomplished? Why say you will improve the economy when the reverse happens? Why brag that you can or will halt wars when they continue unabated? All I want is simplicity, not theatrics. Will it ever come to pass?
Philip Reinecker
East side
Jill Biden’s travels
Regarding Jack Walter’s LTE on Sept. 20: A quick search reveals how misinformed he is: No, Jill Biden did not fly back and forth from Normandy every day for Hunter’s trial. The First Lady did make a specific trip from France to the U.S. and back during her husband’s official visit for the D-Day anniversary.
Timeline of Jill Biden’s travel in June 2024:
June 4: Jill Biden, along with President Biden, departed for France to attend the D-Day 80th-anniversary commemorations in Normandy.
June 6: The First Lady flew from France to Wilmington, Delaware, to be present for Hunter Biden’s federal gun trial. She had to miss some D-Day events to do this.
June 8: She flew back to Paris to join President Biden for a state dinner with French President Emmanuel Macron.
The Democratic National Committee stated it would reimburse the government for the travel costs of this portion of the trip.
Bill Boaz
SaddleBrooke
Misguided politicians
I was turned away from my Walgreens appointment for my COVID shot last week because I did not have a prescription. Meanwhile, millions of mentally unstable Americans are allowed to buy guns. Politicians have very confusing priorities.
Russell Bonn
SaddleBrooke
Free speech is a two-way street
I don’t normally agree with Ted Cruz, but these are not normal times. I find myself in total agreement with Cruz that recent threats made by FCC Chair Brendan Carr related to Jimmy Kimmel’s show are in fact “dangerous as hell.” On his recent podcast, Cruz explained: “I think it is unbelievably dangerous for government to put itself in the position of saying we’re going to decide what speech we like and what we don’t, and we’re going to threaten to take you off air if we don’t like what you’re saying.” Having spent part of my professional life working among broadcast television news professionals, I couldn’t agree more. Again, Cruz’s words: “It might feel good right now to threaten Jimmy Kimmel, yeah, but when it is used to silence every conservative in America, we will regret it.” Free speech works both ways. If you want it to keep working, think hard about who you vote for in the coming elections.
Thea Chalow
Oro Valley
Facts are facts
How is it that you can slander someone by using their own words against them? If I call the prez a liar and sexual predator by reciting what he said like, “the election was stolen,” and “you can grab them by the “P***y,” am I slandering the convicted felon? I don’t think so. If I say that Charlie Kirk was a racist by posting what he stated on numerous occasions, am I slandering him? No. But for some who hold racism and being white in such high regard disagree vehemently with me.
I am pointing out a simple fact. Facts aren’t someone’s opinion. They are facts. Kirk was a racist, that’s a fact. If you don’t like it, well, you can write an LTE trying to explain how facts can be looked at as “alternative facts.”
John Bingham
Northwest side
- Paula Palotay, Marana
I would like to pass on a website for ABC feedback support for viewers who would like to make a stand for our First Amendment:
If we don’t stand up for something (in this case, our First Amendment rights), we will fall for anything. If I don’t want to watch a certain show, I use my remote to change the channel. That is where I exercise freedom; the government does not do it for me.
Paula Palotay
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David Byrne, Northwest side
My own toughness is questionable. However, in the 1960s I served in a Marine Corps infantry platoon in Viet Nam. The men I served with were tough. They served in dire circumstances. Yet, every time I visit Tucson’s Veterans Administration I am faced with a large picture showing Donald Trump’s scowling visage. He is what we called phony tough. He is an inveterate bully pretending to be so.
David Byrne
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Kimmel suspension
I just finished rewatching Jimmy Kimmel’s broadcast on ABC for which he was suspended. Kimmel loves mocking President Trump, and Trump is eminently mockable. Kimmel is creative and funny (view the entire monologue, not just his remarks about the Kirk assassination).
His suspension raises troubling questions about our freedom of expression guaranteed by the First Amendment and about the actions of the FCC in admonishing Kimmel and ABC. The First Amendment is silent about the content of what’s being expressed. It doesn’t matter that someone disagrees or doesn’t like it. And the FCC licenses broadcast stations but does not control broadcast content. Moreover, some owners and distributors of Kimmel’s show were needing FCC approval for future business decisions. This suggests the possibility of undue influence and even extortion on the part of the FCC.
I find it most ironic that hatred of government control drove so many to vote for Trump.
Dale Keyes
Northwest side
Dysfunctional Secretary of Health
Every time I read or hear the statements that come out of RFK Jr.’s mouth, I become physically ill. His total disregard of proven science is astonishing. The decisions and policies that he is putting in place are going to have such a negative impact on people of all ages. Paramedics and EMTs have far greater medical knowledge than he will ever possess. Unfortunately for me, there is no vaccine for my RFK syndrome. If there were, I probably wouldn’t be eligible to receive it. Now, senators in Congress who approved RFK Jr’s nomination are having second thoughts. They knew during nomination hearings that he wasn’t qualified, but they needed to follow the dictates of their master. Now we are all paying the price.
Fred DiNoto
Northwest side
The party of free speech
Our notoriously thin-skinned President got what he wanted, namely, Jimmy Kimmel being suspended. This follows the cancellation of Stephen Colbert. This is right out of the authoritarian playbook. Whatever happened to the Republican Party being the party of free speech? Nothing Kimmel or Colbert ever says is out of line or “fake news.” They simply have always told the truth about the awful things Trump is doing to our country, and they manage to do it with humor. Meanwhile, Brian Kilmeade, a co-host of “Fox & Friends,” called for the execution of homeless people. Where was the outrage over that? All of us need to keep speaking up against a would-be petty dictator. To stop means our freedoms will slip away one by one.
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
Trump’s glare
My own toughness is questionable. However, in the 1960s, I served in a Marine Corps infantry platoon in Vietnam. The men I served with were tough. They served in dire circumstances. Yet, every time I visit Tucson’s Veterans Administration, I am faced with a large picture showing Donald Trump’s scowling visage. He is what we called phony tough. He is an inveterate bully pretending to be so.
David Byrne
Northwest side
All is not lost
My parents always taught that if we were willing to complain, nice things had to be acknowledged. In this age of extreme polarization and distrust, something restorative happened to us: My husband found a young woman waiting at his car when he finished shopping. The woman told him that she had hit his car, and she gave him all of her information. She said she would personally be responsible for the damage without contacting her insurance company. She urged him to get the car fixed and, I confess, we wondered if we’d ultimately be stuck with the bill. While the car was in for repairs, we received a phone call informing us that the cost was covered. We have no idea of her political ideology. We have no idea of her religion. What we do know is that she represents something we thought was lost in the U.S.: A sense of personal responsibility and honor. All is not lost.
Barbara Benjamin
Foothills
Suspension of Jimmy Kimmel
I would like to pass on a website for ABC feedback support for viewers who would like to make a stand for our First Amendment:
If we don’t stand up for something (in this case, our First Amendment rights), we will fall for anything. If I don’t want to watch a certain show, I use my remote to change the channel. That is where I exercise freedom; the government does not do it for me.
Paula Palotay
Marana
Democratic elites
The recent Ward 3 public meeting concerning the Star Village homeless site appeared to be a lecture from the Democratic elite about what they have already decided.
I want to remind us about the numbers 27 and 30. Only 27% of Americans respect the Democratic Party. On the recent Proposition 414, only 30% of the electorate voted yes.
Other Democrats are starting a new tactic. Joseph Kennedy III is walking from house to house, knocking on doors, and asking people what is important to them, their concerns, their needs and their wants.
Imagine.
Susie Morris
Midtown
The destruction of dissent continues
MSNBC has been under attack for years by Trump, due to its dissenting opinion. Then it spread to Stephen Colbert with his ouster. Next on the chopping block was Jimmy Kimmel, with his removal. These actions not only reflect fascism but also the mindset of the leader. Authoritarian leaders are known for their God-like self-image. With that comes the notion that they are perfect and that dissenting opinions are traitorous. Dissent of dear leader is seen as a personal attack on their grandiosity and superiority. Dissent can damage their narcissism, so it must be ended to protect their self-image. Attempting to ban dissent is not the action of a man trying to promote democracy, but of one trying to promote fascism. The Constitution allows dissent, but Trump seems to want his own Constitution, based on his grandiose self-image. If we extrapolate our current trend into the future, we will see darker days ahead.
Steve Rasmussen
Foothills
LTE bias?
Re: Sept. 14 LTE “Fair and balanced”. Our Loyal contributor sees a bias in Star editors, claiming 90% of letters favor Democrats. More accurately, 90% of letters favor facts and truth. As to the suggestion that Pima County conservatives “are illiterate, red-necked rubes, who are incapable of expressing a cogent opinion”: That’s his characterization, not mine, but I wouldn’t argue the point with him.
Gary Susko
Midtown
Thank you, Star, stars and astronomers
Thanks to the Star for headlining astronomical studies on your front page, most recently “New study sheds light on how black holes binge and purge.” You have a great headline writer as well!
There’s a local angle, given that the UA, Kitt Peak, and NOAO’s successor NSF-OIR are all involved, but it’s also cosmic. O’odham leaders decided to permit an astronomy installation on their sacred mountain after the “long eyes” (astronomers) showed them the heavens through a telescope. These elders teach us to value the long view.
A “You Are Here” postcard (Vision Works) features an arrow showing our tiny speck in the galaxy, itself one in billions of galaxies, adding that Earth is “the only one we are certain supports life.”
In fraught times, it helps to take such a long, really long, even cosmic, view. May it remind us to treasure our tiny place in the universe.
Ila Abernathy
Midtown
Riddle me this
Christian evangelist Charlie Kirk spoke on college campuses, proselytizing impressionable American youth into believing that, as a “Christian country, we should all live under the tenets of 2025-year-old Christianity.” The First Amendment guaranteed him this right. The Constitution stipulates that every “person” in this country has the right to free speech.
Unless you’re satirizing the king.
If you write articles or LTEs, state opinions or tell jokes, you risk alienating the omnipotent ruler. He’s now considering an executive order suggesting it would be illegal to make fun of him.
Colbert made him angry. He paid through extortion over “an FCC ruling.” Trump promised Jimmy Kimmel was next, freeing negotiations (and approval?) from his FCC over football TV rights. You’re all witnesses. He warned Meyers and Fallon to beware, lest he revoke NBC’s FCC license. Now he’s after David Muir.
These firings are all about satirical comments made under First Amendment rights, which Trump championed for Kirk, but not for the left.
Answer?
Sheldon Metz
Foothills
Free speech
Our First Amendment guarantees freedom of speech without government interference. FCC head Brendan Carr is pressuring media companies to fire certain left-leaning personalities at the behest of the thin-skinned authoritarian in the White House. CEOs must bend the knee to Trump or Carr has the power, among other things, to quash huge money-making business deals like the recent $8 billion merger between Paramount and Skydance. Prior to that merger, CBS paid Trump a settlement of $16 million after Trump accused “60 Minutes” of editing an interview with Kamala Harris.
Follow the money. Trump and Brendan Carr are reshaping our entertainment, news and information as they trample freedom of speech.
Karen Allison
Three Points
The fraudster’s friend
How is it possible that white-collar fraudsters like Trevor Milton, Devon Archer and Carlos Watson, who were convicted of stealing hundreds of millions of dollars, can get away with their crimes, facing no penalties, no prison time, no restitution to victims? It’s simple: just cozy up to President Trump.
Then the SEC will jump to attention and, although technically an independent commission run by a Trump appointee, what Trump wants, Trump gets. So the criminals, already pardoned and granted clemency by the President, do not face the usual penalties and consequences of an SEC enforcement action — they go scot-free. He pardoned these egregious criminals before they even started serving their criminal sentences or making any restitution payments. Trump simply jumps the line, completely ignoring Justice Department guidelines that offer similar treatment only to criminals who have already served time and paid restitution to their victims.
Yep. It’s nothing but the best for criminals and con artists ... from one of the best.
Melody Sears
North side
Protect it or lose it
Before you condemn something or someone based on the words of a politician, investigate. Simply because you’ve heard the words before doesn’t mean they have value or validity. Stop leaving the fight to others. The basic Constitutional rights you are losing matter. History matters. Science matters. Treating others with respect matters. Your lives matter, and you sell yourself short when you don’t stand up to those who would try to bamboozle you with half-truths and innuendo.
Cynthia Schiesel
East side
- James Abels, Midtown
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr did not like Jimmy Kimmel’s statements of opinion regarding Charlie Kirk’s assassination. Carr and Trump have suggested imposing sanctions against owners of broadcast licenses that criticize Trump or make what they deem to be offensive statements.
This is not the first time Trump has talked about revoking broadcasting licenses of networks that provide unfavorable news coverage of his statements and activities.
Historically, suppression of ideas, the press, legislative and judicial branches have been the method of repression chosen by authoritarian governments.
Can the conservative LTE writers explain how pressuring ABC, a subsidiary of Disney, to fire Jimmy Kimmel is not an abuse of First Amendment rights by the federal government? Remember, Disney has merger business pending before the FCC. Also, Jimmy Kimmel Live! is 6th top rated show as of 9/17/25.
James Abels
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
First Amendment
I am convinced more than ever that most of us don’t support freedom of speech. Supporting the killing of Charlie Kirk is not freedom of speech. Supporting the firing of someone who criticized Charlie Kirk is not supporting freedom of speech.
Supporting the killing of a Democratic Minnesota legislator in her home is not freedom of speech. Criticizing that same legislator is. Supporting the beating of Nancy Pelosi’s husband with a hammer is not freedom of speech. Criticizing Pelosi is.
Finally, just because the Constitution allows us freedom of speech does not mean we should say everything that comes to our mind. Words have consequences.
Howard Strause
Foothills
Wondering ...
— What alleged crime might Trump be charged with first when he leaves office?
— Will RFK Jr. be charged with premeditated murder when people start dying from lack of vaccines and medical research?
— Will ICE begin a review of Einstein Visa applications?
— Will the Supremes review the U.S. Constitution and discover the Emoluments clause, the words “well regulated”, or the terms relating to freedom of religion and due process?
— Will the unqualified and incompetent Trump administration destroy American health, education, economy, society, judicial system, and national security before Congress and Supreme Court justices find the courage to uphold their oaths, the Constitution and rule of law?
— Will the United States survive this ship of fools and be able to make America great again?
Todd Ackerman
Foothills
Royal reception for Trump
Courtesy of the U.K., our illustrious leader took another “giant step” toward becoming King of the U.S.
I almost retched watching what the U.K. Ministry of Defence said was “the largest (ever) for a State visit.” I expect “Pomp and Circumstance” from the Brits, it’s OK and in their DNA. But come on people, it was horrendously decadent, over-the-top, unrestrained, vulgar, ugly and grossly obscene. Too much of the world faces catastrophic famine. Think Ethiopia, Uganda, Gaza, Haiti, South Sudan. Even in our “land of plenty,” hundreds of thousands of children go to bed hungry, without SNAP, WIC and many other domestic programs recently gutted by a gutless Congress. Internationally, $60 billion of USAID was cut — for us and in the world’s eyes — this is our greatest weapon against Putin, Xi Jinping, Kim Jong Un and the other dictators. Gleeful, they can hardly wait for us to become a Third World country. Are we too late?
Butch Farabee
Oro Valley
Things to consider
Why do people claiming to be “religious” ignore the problem of homelessness? Every religious leader from Moses, Jesus, Muhammad, etc., preached helping those less fortunate than you.
Who needs all those immigrants? Everyone will have a Trump Victory Garden.
White replacement theory? Guess what, it’s true. Fifty percent of the world is Asian, and 15% is black. White guys? Less than 9% and shrinking.
A zoonotic disease that kills millions? Just a matter of time if RFK Jr. is successful with his anti-vaccine agenda. Don’t worry, RSV will probably kill your kids first.
Manufacturing in the U.S.A.? China’s manufacturing capacity is greater than the next nine countries combined.
Climate change is real. If you’re lucky, you’ll be dead before you have to explain your denial to your kids.
Drinking water? We’ll just mine it.
George Ball
Midtown
The lowest point was reached
Ever since the murder of Charlie Kirk, I have read carefully every day, the letters whose theme is he was a man with the wrong beliefs.
To denigrate the person who was killed is disgraceful. You should all be ashamed, but of course you won’t because that is who you are.
The absolute low point was in the Sept. 18 Star. It wasn’t a letter from locals but was on the Opinion page, an article written by Kelley Benson. In it, he said, “And it comes on top of an extraordinary spectacle: taxpayers footing the bill for Air Force Two to carry Kirk’s remains, with honors usually reserved for military members or senior government officials.”
I wonder if he complained when Jill Biden flew Air Force One back and forth every day from Normandy to sit in Hunter’s trial, I assumed to intimidate the jury.
Jack Walters
Northeast side
Trampling the First
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr did not like Jimmy Kimmel’s statements of opinion regarding Charlie Kirk’s assassination. Carr and Trump have suggested imposing sanctions against owners of broadcast licenses who criticize Trump or make what they deem to be offensive statements.
This is not the first time Trump has talked about revoking broadcasting licenses of networks that provide unfavorable news coverage of his statements and activities.
Historically, suppression of ideas, the press, legislative and judicial branches have been the method of repression chosen by authoritarian governments.
Can the conservative LTE writers explain how pressuring ABC, a subsidiary of Disney, to fire Jimmy Kimmel is not an abuse of First Amendment rights by the federal government? Remember, Disney has merger business pending before the FCC. Also, Jimmy Kimmel Live! is the sixth-rated show as of Sept.17.
James Abels
Midtown
Misdirected op-ed
First, I want to commend Joe Watson for turning his life around. Joe’s recent op-ed was misdirected. In 2007 Joe perpetrated a string of armed robberies of beauty salons in the Phoenix valley. He was caught and sentenced to 12 years in prison. The criminal justice system broke the cycle of violence Joe was perpetrating, and caused him to face up to his own poor decisions and reflect on the terror he caused his female victims. Cops see the devastation of violent crime every day. As such they see the value in removing violent people from society to prevent further victimization and to protect officers, because violent criminals pose a threat to everyone. For every “Joe” there are 5 to take his place. Crime results from failed individual choices and beyond the control of the police. There is a sentencing guide that provides for fair sentencing. Yes, the criminal justice system has flaws, but the TPOA wants to protect our community, Joe of all people should understand that.
Richard Harper
Northeast side
‘LTEs by Dems’
No, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama did not make up fake documents against Donald Trump. This idea stems from a discredited conspiracy theory alleging that they directed a “Clinton Plan” to create false intelligence connecting Trump to Russia. In reality, multiple investigations have found no evidence of such a plot. During President Barack Obama’s world tours and other travel, his family accompanied him at taxpayer expense when the travel was official business. According to policy for presidential travel, a distinction is made between official travel, where the government pays costs, and personal or political travel, where the family must reimburse the government for costs such as equivalent commercial airfare. DT seems to be trashing of the Constitution & abusing power. DOJ wasn’t weaponized, until DJT — FCC weaponized too. (Long live Kimmel and Colbert!) National Guard abuse. Bankruptcies. Abuse of power with EOs. January 6? Word fumbling? Firing highly qualified people?
Peter Bisschop
East side
The circus never leaves town
The circus landed in Alaska. The red carpet, like the ones Hollywood starlets strut across, ushered the Clown Brigade in front of the cameras. The two Bozos shook hands and smiled.
What a show!!! Bozo No. 1 had B-2 bombers with fighter jets scream across the sky, while Bozo No. 2 had his bombers bomb civilians in Ukraine.
For three hours, the Bozos talked about what could have been said in a zoom meeting, how to stop the war. How can peace talks be held while one side is actively bombing the other side? How many people are losing their lives because of not requiring a ceasefire as a prerequisite to peace talks? Duh!!
As the meetings ended, the SS Monkeys were let out of their cage, and they scampered around big black vehicles like the Gargoyles of Notre Dame. At least six black limos and many other cars were in a procession to usher the Big Bozo to his plane.
What became of this meeting?
Ed LeGendre
East side
Kindness
Could we all let go of our fear and hate and give kindness a chance right now?
Be kind to your fellow beings and be kind to the earth. It is our only home right now.
Thank you.
Marilyn Bernzott
Southwest side
Misleading quotes slander Kirk
To paint Charlie Kirk as a racist is to kill him all over again.
The following quote was attributed to Kirk in the Arizona Daily Star on Sept. 18: “Black women do not have the brain processing power to be taken really seriously.” An opinion contributor wrote it, but that does not excuse the Star for allowing it to stand.
What Charlie said 53 minutes into his July 13, 2023, podcast was, “You do not have the brain processing power to be taken really seriously”. This jab was aimed at four specific, black, liberal women; not black women in general.
Another Kirk quote: “If I see a black pilot, I’m gonna be like, ‘Boy I hope he’s qualified’”. Sounds racist, but in his podcast on Jan. 18, 2024, Charlie was talking about a scenario where pilots are hired on the basis of being black, not on having superior qualifications. The context changes everything.
I shouldn’t have to open the paper and do my own fact-checking.
Kevin Wohlford
Northeast side
Project Blue again?
I sincerely hope the County does some data analysis and review of alternatives regarding a “water cooled system” for this project if they want to proceed. Also, TEP needs to show how it will provide power without increasing rates. This information is vital for both the County and its constituents, after all, we will all bear the financial brunt in the end. Please, Supervisors, keep us informed. Not all of us can attend meetings.
Debbie Smith
Foothills
- Richard Rebl, East side
I find it interesting that President Trump – who successfully dodged the draft and despises the military to whom he refers to as “losers and suckers” – is now engaged in making war on the people of America and other countries, but not surprising as he now commands such forces as the President of the United States. In previous times, the spectacle of a fight to the death between two warriors was a common way to entertain not only the emperor but the citizens as well to take their minds off the problems of everyday life. Often referred to “bread and circuses”, I would refer to this as “blood and sand” because the commander and chief is able to conduct and review such actions in real time given the technology we have. I find it frightening and abhorrent that the president is engaging his fantasies using your sons and daughters to carry such actions for no apparent reason other than that he can.
Richard Rebl
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Silvia Rouzaud, Midtown
Time to raise our voices and vote with our pocketbooks. CEO Bob Iger's decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel's show demonstrates corporate disregard for free speech, a fundamental right in our constitution, in our rapidly shrinking democracy (Thanks, Trump/MAGA). Google ABC/Disney boycott to see what you can do.
Silvia Rouzaud
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Karen Micallef, Oro Valley
There have been many letters to the editor lately expressing their sorrow and outrage over the assassination of conservative spokesman, Charlie Kirk. Most of them make a point of saying he was entitled to “free speech.” Well, so are television talk show hosts, Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel — both of whom have now been taken off the air for their jokes. My question to all of Charlie Kirk’s fans: Where is your outrage over their lack of “free speech”? Or does that right only extend to conservatives?
Karen Micallef
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Updated
Consistent beliefs
Honest self-reflection:
If you generally agreed with Charlie Kirk’s philosophy and beliefs, you (as I) are understandably very upset with his killing.
But the real test is for those of you who disliked, even hated Kirk’s religious, political and social message. If you too are not outraged by his killing, something is wrong with you.
If some deranged lunatic were to execute Gavin Newsom, or Adam Schiff, or Jasmine Crockett — I can honestly say I’d be outraged as well.
If your beliefs and standards depend on what side is being targeted, then you have no beliefs. Stand for something.
Or stand for nothing.
Bud Snyder
SaddleBrooke
Send Grijalva to Congress
Adelita Grijalva won July’s Democratic primary election in a landslide to succeed her father, Raul, in the House of Representatives for Congressional District 7. But that was just the first step.
To advance to Congress the most qualified candidate to represent our district, vote for Grijalva in Tuesday’s general election. After serving as a TUSD board member for 20 years and a Board of Supervisor for four, she knows best our region and its needs.
Among issues she will tackle: promoting affordable housing; protecting Social Security and government jobs, and defending our water supply and environment. She will fight vigorously against steps taken by President Trump to cripple Medicaid and his actions designed to stifle the voices of those who oppose him.
If you still have a ballot mailed to you, drop it off at the County Recorder’s office, 240 N Stone Avenue, or at a voting site.
Grijalva volunteer
Frank Sotomayor
West side
Juan and more
Really Juan? You just finished kneecapping Medicare and Medicaid for seniors, and you advertise yourself as the “trusted congressman for seniors.” Do you think we are so feeble-minded and forgetful that we can’t remember back just a few weeks? Don’t misjudge us. As for recent attacks on politicians, citizens are tired since Reagan and “trickle down” has anything, health care, schools, infrastructure, air quality and numerous things gotten better? We pay our taxes for programs that we want to improve our lives, then politicians disregard us as “you don’t know what you want” and divvy up our taxes for their own programs. The people are constantly overridden and being made to “earn” the benefits we paid for. Apparently, we don’t matter, and some people think the way to be heard is by extreme violence. Wake up, politicians, and start listening to us.
Daniel Poryanda
Southeast side
‘Please stop us’
Re: “Dangers of chatbots”, ADS, Sept. 17.
The Atomic Bomb, 1945 — an amazing triumph of human ingenuity. But … “Please stop us,” many of the inventors (e.g., Robert Oppenheimer) pleaded, “This thing could destroy mankind.” The answer to the plea: “No, sorry, we can’t stop. The Russians are catching up.” And so ingenious humans brought forth “Mutually Assured Destruction.”
Fast forward to the 21st century — AI, another amazing triumph of human ingenuity. But … “Please stop us,” many of the inventors (e.g., Sam Altman) pleaded. “This thing could destroy mankind.” The answer to the plea: “No, sorry, we can’t stop. The Chinese are catching up.” And so ingenious humans are bringing forth “The Singularity.”
There’s a pattern here. I think the Greeks called it “hubris.” It doesn’t end well.
George Timson
Midtown
Assassination
The killing of Charlie Kirk was a horrendous act by a scum of the earth individual. This man had a wife and family and was entitled to free speech. I must admit, however, that many things he said I disagree with. “Gun deaths are worth it to have a second amendment.” “Black people were better off in the 1940s under Jim Crow laws.” “Taylor Swift, submit to your husband, you’re not in charge.” “Black women do not have the brain processing power to be taken really seriously.” “Casting Jews as drivers of anti-white politics.” There is much, much more, but you get the point. His ideas, while his own, hopefully do not represent mainstream America. Somehow, we find people wanting to erect statues for this guy, while his most redeeming feature was his being loud and opinionated.
Philip Reinecker
East side
Star Village
While resistance to Star Village from the neighborhood is understandable, I do take issue with the statement by Kevin Daily that moving this space to the jail would be a safe solution. The jail is in the middle of multiple neighborhoods. Perhaps he is ignorant of the 30 reported inmate deaths since 2021 or the five inmates who escaped or were mistakenly released. There is also the adjacent Reentry Center on Starr Pass. Our neighborhood is very aware of this because of multiple sex offender notices we receive each week from this facility.
We commend the efforts of the City and County for providing safety and services to address the housing crisis in Tucson. Other neighborhoods should understand that the south side has lived with the unhoused population for decades and we understand that we are all part of the same community and they should not be demonized as criminals or a nuisance. If Daily wants to offer a safe solution, it should go beyond “Not in my neighborhood.”
Jason Huaraque
Southwest side
Murder of Kirk
I am confused by many of the recent LTEs in response to the murder of Charlie Kirk. They generally all begin with the writer stating they are not condoning the act (the murder). Then they go into great detail to provide examples of supposed statements or beliefs of Kirk’s that they deem objectionable. What is their point? Are they trying to find some little bit of justification? Maybe they do actually think his murder was legitimate because he dared to share his views and try to convince others. We seem to have a lot of people who think that way in this country of “free speech.” It’s not so free, after all.
Denise Walker
Midtown
Quarantine before vaccines
We need to remember: Before vaccines, whole families were quarantined for a week or more. It could be longer as each child in the family got infected. There would be a notice nailed on the front door.
Donald Plummer
Northwest side
You can’t make this up
Stephanie Murray of the Arizona Republic, in her article on Sept. 16 (AZ pastors compare Charlie Kirk to Jesus), wrote that attendees who were at a Charlie Kirk service “were concerned about online critics spreading misleading information about his political views” — and then proceeded in the next paragraph to take two of Kirk’s views out of context! She quoted five words (out of 12 years of public speaking) as examples of his “beliefs.” Also of note: The only comparison in the article between Kirk and Jesus was that they both were killed in their 30s.
And the media wonders why they have lost the trust of the public.
Tom Furlong
East side
Body hanging in tree
This is the entirety of an article appearing in the Star for Wednesday, Sept. 17: “Death: Police on Tuesday investigated the death of a Black college student found hanging from a tree on the campus of Delta State University in Mississippi; authorities said there was no initial evidence of a crime.”
Huh? “No evidence of crime?” What, he hung himself? In public, in a tree? Or are we back to lynching? Charlie Kirk was overtly racist, but was this payback?
What has happened to our country? Preaching hate has consequences. Where will they end? I am terrified. Our country is spinning out of control, with Trump’s foot on the accelerator. The hate has got to stop. It is destroying the fabric of our very mixed American society and shredding our relationships with the rest of the world.
This is heartbreaking on so many levels.
Regula Case
Midtown
We all know the symptoms
Quote by the wordsmith and author.
“When you see that in order to produce, you need to obtain permission from men who produce nothing — When you see that money is flowing to those who deal, not in goods, but in favors — When you see that men get richer by graft and by pull than by work, and your laws don’t protect you against them, but protect them against you — When you see corruption being rewarded and honesty becoming a self-sacrifice — You may know that your society is doomed.” — Ayn Rand
Judy Mercer
Oro Valley
Charlie Kirk
Until his recent murder, I had never heard of Charlie Kirk. So I am very surprised to see the outpouring of support for him after this event. In my effort to learn more about him, I read that on an Aug. 4 Podcast discussing the redistricting effort in Texas, he stated that “The great replacement of white people is far more sinister than any redistricting project.” So it would appear that he would consider my interracial marriage as “sinister.”
Alan Roehl
Green Valley
Nothing better to do?
Most of my accounting clients wanted an accurate picture of their financial condition on a weekly and monthly basis. A few wanted annual budgets by month. (A budget is a road map to profitability.)
Any well-managed business will look at its financial condition on a regular basis. A good CEO, of a publicly traded entity, should have financial data provided monthly or weekly. Semi-annual reporting may provide outdated information. Or fail to recognize a problem in a timely manner.
Reporting financials quarterly, per SEC requirements, should not be a material burden. The accounting system should be in place to “close the books” on a monthly basis, regardless. Adjusting the books to GAAP is the only added work, generally.
I look at the financials of stocks I research and hold. I value timely information when investing.
Trump needs to turn his attention to more significant items.
James Abels
Midtown
LTEs by Dems
I get such a kick out of the liberal Democrats’ LTEs bashing Trump. I get it! Trump is a bipolar, bullying, bombastic blowhard.
But where were you Democrats when Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama made up fake documents against Trump? Where were you when Obama took his family on his world tours at taxpayers’ expense? Where were you when the Biden “mafia family” had illegal dealings with foreign countries? Where were you when Biden weaponized the DOJ against Trump? Where were you when it was obvious that Biden had dementia? I hear crickets. Maybe Michael Savage is correct in saying “liberalism is a mental disorder.”
James McFarren
East side
- Elinor Brecher, Foothills
Such a waste of time, all this flailing about for the cause of autism. Clearly, it's not Tylenol. Clearly, it's not vaccines. I've solved this conundrum, and it's so obvious that even a drug-addled, bear-carcass-toting, whale-decapitating, brain-worm-hosting sewage-canal merman should be able to see it. It's ... diapers! Every single child with autism once wore diapers. How can there be any doubt? So from now on - and this should please the raw milk-swilling MAHA (Make American Healthy Again) crowd - babies must be allowed the sweet freedom of peeing and pooping au naturel, as God and nature intended. Outlaw diapers! Case closed. I'll take my Nobel Prize in medicine now, thank you very much.
Elinor Brecher
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
More like this...
Financial boycotts work
It was gratifying to hear that Jimmy Kimmel has been reinstated to appear on his late-night show on ABC. Mr. Kimmel’s comments were viewed as a political slam against the right wing, which supported Charlie Kirk. MAGA republicans applauded President Trump’s FCC chair Brendan Carr for pressuring Disney and ABC to suspend the show.
Freedom of speech is central to our democracy and designed to allow different points of view. The overwhelming backlash confirmed that the First Amendment is worth protecting. I think what really helped Disney decide to reinstate Jimmy Kimmel is that people expressed their discontent by canceling their subscriptions to Disney and Hulu, along with plummeting Disney stock. Over a four-day period, Disney lost $3.87 billion.
We, the people, have the power to make our voices heard, not only through protest but also with our wallets. This may be the most effective way to stop the current president and his administration from imposing policies that ignore our Constitution.
Gail Schumacher
Southwest side
Border czar bribery inquiry
Fox News’ Laura Ingraham’s relevant question to the border czar Tom Homan was, did you take $50,000 from undercover FBI agents? And instead of answering “no,” Homan said, “I did nothing illegal.” But because the Trump administration is a corrupt kleptocracy, it’s no wonder that his DOJ and FBI closed the investigation this past summer, which had begun in the summer of 2024. According to reporting, the FBI recorded Tom Homan taking a bribe from supposed business leaders for securing government contracts, should Trump win the election. Congress must reopen an investigation and subpoena Tom Homan to appear and answer direct questions under oath. Let’s not let this story disappear like the Jeffrey Epstein files.
Karen Allison
Three Points
Rep. Gosar’s bill, H.R. 5392
To the Editor:
Rep. Gosar’s bill, H.R. 5392, would nullify Ironwood National Monument and ignore the city’s profound respect and continued appreciation of this historic monument. The monument offers local residents the opportunity to hike, hunt and camp. Not to mention being a home for 674 species, many of which are federally listed as threatened or endangered. Opening the monument for copper and gold mining is insulting to this wide range of biodiversity and the local residents that enjoy the land.
Ironwood National Monument is integral to Tucson’s identity. Our Marana Town Council even approved Resolution NO. 2025-075, which represents the unanimous official opposition to shrinking the boundaries and the opening of the monument for extraction, mining exploration and potential development.
Our city and public land deserve better than opening this area up for mining.
I urge Rep. Ciscomani to oppose this bill.
Kaya Byrd
Marana
Kirk memorial
I hear that tens of thousands appeared at the memorial service for Charlie Kirk. A man who, though not deserving of his demise, was definitely not a person to be anointed with oil. People say I lack empathy, and while I am sorry for his death, I know he was not a hero to me. Answer a question, you who so gladly attended his services, what about the myriad of innocent school children gunned down in our streets almost every month? Where were you when their funerals were taking place? I suspect you were just “ho hum” and going on with your life. Please don’t insult reality by suggesting that you are patriots or that you truly care because you obviously do not. You only espouse the bragging, lying, bullying of your fearless leader. This is what you want, don’t deny it. You reap what you sow.
Philip Reinecker
East side
A wicked wit?
I believe your “conservative” LTR writer from Oro Valley has been misinterpreted. To my mind, he is a brilliant comedian with a wicked, sly wit. His recent letter complaint about a lack of published conservative letters was a prime example, as he seems to be published weekly.
His pièce de résistance so far, however, was his trumpeting of this administration’s law and order stance. With a convicted felon at the helm who pardons thousands of fellow felons and appoints one of them as an ambassador, who daily violates settled law, the Constitution and Posse Comitatus, this accolade has to be the penultimate tongue-in-cheek pronouncement.
Writing in this style must be an effort to avoid the authoritarian censorship currently be applied to administration dissenters, but I hope the Star will give him his own Opinion column as his consistent send-up of this administration is not to be missed.
I look forward to his next LTE and hope someday this closet Democrat has the courage to come out.
Todd Ackerman
Foothills
Facts vs. fear
Again, a LTE makes claims about immigrant crime without substantiating the comments. A study in Texas showed the murder rate among native born citizens is three times greater than immigrants. The rape statistic shows native-born people commit rape at twice the rate as illegal persons. All statistics from a variety of sources show the writer was making exaggerations and bogus claims. It’s a broad brush that paints people coming to the USA as rapists, murderers, thieves and dangerous people. We already have a bunch of people stoking fear and mistrust of anyone who isn’t white. It seems the melting pot has become the boiling pot, stirred up by ignorance and prejudice.
John Kautz
Midtown
Trump and the Fed
I read with interest “Faulting the Fed” in Monday’s paper. Paul Vallas’ comments against the Fed were ridiculous. Bill Dudley’s comments were much more correct.
Behind the concern for the Fed is Donald Trump and his nihilistic economic policy. After destroying the American fiscal future by having a mindless, puppet-like MAGA Congress pass his “Big Beautiful Bill,” he wants to destroy the monetary present by lowering interest rates to near or below zero. I still remember that in his first term he wanted the Fed to lower interest rates below zero like Japan. Now, because of the economic damage, even Japan is raising rates. Negative interest rates are to fight deflation and stimulate growth. We have no deflation. Trump’s economic policy of tariffs, and their illogical use, is the only thing holding back real growth. Seriously, are you better off today than a year ago?
It is too bad for the country that 90% of those voting for Trump in 2024 voted against their own economic self-interest.
Matt Somers
Midtown
And the stats say ...
Re Sept. 23 LTE: Avoidable.
The conservative Cato Institute states, from 2010-23, native-born citizens committed more crime per capita than immigrants. Illegal immigrants committed more crime than legal immigrants. According to the Cato Institute, overall crime rates have been decreasing since 2010. 2024 statistics did not provide per capita information, i.e., inherently useless data.
To “prevent” crime, native-born citizens should be deported before illegal and legal immigrants. Odds are, a person is more likely to be a crime victim perpetrated by a native-born citizen.
But that’s OK. In the MAGA reality, facts are myth, myths are fact and what you want to believe defines your perception and your reality.
James Abels
Midtown
Going where?
Where is our country headed? The land of the free and the home of the brave is no longer as free nor as brave when compared to earlier times.
We watch our freedoms being eroded constantly. We are no longer fearless in speaking our minds. Now we are hesitant to criticize our government’s actions. Comedy used to be a form of relief, but even that is being taken away. Censorship is now the rule, not the exception. America is turning ugly to the point where many are leaving the country, hoping for a better life elsewhere.
It is a shameful happening. This formerly was the country where our forebears embraced its shores. Immigration was a welcoming word. Everything seems to have turned upside down.
Yet many are happy with the country’s direction and leadership. Complacency reigns as long as there is no talk of gun control, minority rights, or such values. No need to be watchful. Big Brother will provide.
We are spinning out of control.
Fred Abood
Green Valley
Opening a package
Congratulations, packaging designers of America. You’ve done it: you’ve invented a product so secure it doubles as a body armor for the item inside. I bought a three-pack of scissors the other day — because, naturally, the only thing standing between me and opening anything in this house is exactly one of those scissors — and then I discover the twist: The scissors themselves are encased in industrial-grade Fort Knox plastic.
Seniors, parents, busy people and anyone whose fine motor skills peaked in high school have two choices when presented with such packaging: (a) try to pry plastic apart with fingernails or (b) walk your purchase back to the store and explain why you’re returning an unopened — but unopenable — set of scissors.
May I humbly propose a radical new design concept: the tear strip or a little perforated tab. Heaven forbid that people can open their purchased goods without needing an engineering degree or a visit to the emergency room to suture a gash from the package.
Lawrence Mazin
SaddleBrooke
Afraid of the U.S.
Not long ago, the U.S. posted travel warnings to Sonora because of narco violence. Recently, we visited José Ríos and Lucía Carrilo in their home in Santa Ana. He is 82 years old, a retired teacher, museum director, municipal historian, and a talented artist. Recent sicario (cartel assassins) battles in nearby El Claro and Trincheras did not alarm them. Normal life goes in in this vibrant community. Lucía said that they were afraid to revisit the U.S. and chose to let their passports expire. Narco violence in Mexico is mostly internal, not toward normal citizens or American visitors. My wife and I have safely traveled in Sonora for 30 years. Trump’s masked ICE agents are detaining Mexican illegals and citizens without all over the country and put them in unhealthy tent detention camps. It is shameful that our neighbors are afraid to visit Arizona.
Tom Van Devender
North side
Following in his bootsteps
Horst Wessel was a member of the Nazi Party, who became a propaganda symbol in Nazi Germany following his murder in 1930 by two members of the Communist Party of Germany (KPD). Nazi Propaganda Minister Joseph Goebbels elevated him into a martyr. Wessel’s funeral was given wide attention with the Nazi elite in attendance. A march for which he had written the lyrics was renamed the “Horst Wessel Song” and became the official anthem of the Nazi Party.
When The MAGAs come out with a song for Charlie Kirk, you will know which way we are headed.
Dale Emmel
Southeast side
Good people — isn’t that enough?
I notice that so many of our politicians reference the Christian faith as the be-all and end-all. JD Vance did at Charlie Kirk’s funeral service. He basically said everyone must be a Christian. I was raised Christian, and I imagine I consider myself Christian. However, that does not define whether I am a good person.
At the risk of sounding redundant, I know many people, of many different beliefs, who are not Christian but are good people.
Why don’t we tweak this a bit and refer to people as just people? I still believe most are good, and I have 68 years on this planet. I’m no expert, but it seems to me that in this time we don’t’ need to create any divides. We are doing this all by ourselves.
Jenni Morrison
North side
Cat nuisance
In early January, my greyhound, Geordie, was bitten by a cat. This cat entered our backyard uninvited, as many neighborhood cats do. Geordie is not cat safe, and a scuffle ensued. His recovery took four painful, exhausting and expensive months. He could have died, and he was in jeopardy of having his leg amputated.
American Bird Conservancy says outdoor domestic cats are a recognized threat to global diversity as they have contributed to the extinction of 63 species of birds, mammals and reptiles in the wild.
According to All About Birds, cats kill 1.3 billion to 4 billion birds each year in the U.S. alone.
Cats do not need to live outdoors. They are a nuisance. They taunt my high prey drive dog in his own yard. And they use my yard as a toilet.
We are doing our best to keep our yard cat-free humanely. But I still see the occasional cat sauntering through our yard.
Humans created this problem. And humans need to fix it.
Ann Chihak Poff
East side
Project Blue is a glutton
In 2022, we were in the second decade of our worst drought. Gov. Ducey signed $1B for AZ crucial continuing growth. It was spent on budget shortages. We said no to Project Blue, not just water and power consumption, but mystery NDAs, lies, undisclosed third site. TEP, SRP & APS request DOE grant for site selection process and early site permit application for new nuclear generation site (nuclear power plant?).
Cooling issue becomes a power problem. AI states have experienced well water depletion or other water supply issues from nearby data centers. DC leaders have targeted oil, national forests and minerals for depletion. Data centers accelerate needs for land, water & power as they grow internationally. The centers are greedy, offering few jobs other than AI once construction is finished. Land acquisitions grow by thousands of acres. More AI means more utility costs. Can our fragile desert survive it?
Bea Manderscheid
Northeast side
Free speech
Re “Democrats complaining about the suppression of free speech”: The Biden administration’s goal was to “de-platform” content that advocated or incited violent action, not to “silence those they disagreed with”. Attempts to keep Trump off the ballot were based on his incitement of a violent insurrection, a result of his incessant lies about the 2020 election. If pro-life activists were arrested, it was for blocking access to abortion clinics, not for “singing and praying”. Conservative speakers face challenges on many college campuses, but few are “denied access” without a valid reason. Charlie Kirk was killed by an unstable white male with a gun who seemed to feel Kirk was a purveyor of hate speech. Kirk had every right to speak his mind, but Mr. Rusciolelli’s belief that Kirk was focused on “God, family and country” whitewashes the misogyny, racism and xenophobia that was consistently spewed by Kirk. God, family and country should encompass more than white, Christian males.
Hope Gastelum
East side
Tucson is not handicapped-accessible
To the Mayor and governor and city council, want to see how hard it is for someone (about 15% of the population in Tucson and over 13% in the state) who is disabled to get around Tucson? Roads are torn up for years (I live Grant/Alvernon and the construction isn’t completed after more than the 3 yrs I’ve lived here), few sidewalks (many that are there need replacing as tree roots force them up or they’re cracked or missing). Recently, the city hired a tree trimming service that blocked the sidewalk for almost a whole block (there was nearby parking available for most of the trucks), which forced me (and other disabled people) to go in the street. Since the city hired them, if I had been hit — and almost was — I would have sued the city. Powers that be: Contact me to go on a “walkabout” and see Tucson is not “handicapped friendly.”
Jessica Edwards
Midtown
Classless thug
The past few nights I have had the opportunity to see interviews with Emmanual Macron of France and Lius Lula da Silva of Brazil. As I listened, I was so impressed with both of these leaders’ clarity of thought and articulation of concepts. Then I hear Trump. A classless thug espousing hatred and retribution at a funeral. Is this who we have become? Are we being led and represented by a cheap reality show rube? We have to look pretty stupid on the world stage. What Trump does and says is who the world thinks we all are. Wake up.
Richard Bechtold
West side
They know not what they do
There have been several recent letters stating that Charlie Kirk was a misogynist, a bigot, a racist and an idiot; one such writer made these claims after having “read a number of his quotes.”
If one were to watch an hour of his debates on college campuses (readily available), one would know that none of these adjectives could be accurately used to describe him. Kirk has many thousands of women and people of color among his followers; he was a devout, unabashed Christian and spoke Biblical truth; and his beliefs were the antithesis of those abhorrent attributes those writers ignorantly attempt to ascribe to him.
Quotes can be taken out of context, and often are in this age of blatant bias and cold-heartedness. In the future, maybe do some research before you label another in such a mean-spirited and ignorant manner.
Richard Peddy
East side
Homan bribery inquiry
I have two items to discuss:
1) The political cartoons in the Sept. 23 Star were the best EVER!
2) In the old phrase “nothing to see here” perfectly describes the Trump sudden need to abort the investigation of “border czar” Homan accepting a $50,000 bribe from an undercover FBI agent. Their reason — it was an attempt by the Biden administration to” entrap one of the president’s top allies” which if true one must believe that Biden was/is clairvoyant. I feel compelled to ask your readers if they were approached by a businessman offering them $50,000 to rig a bid, would they gladly accept? If they answer “yes,” then they are in good company with the Trump ethics board. If, on the other hand, they answer “no,” then they must make their outrage heard and let the powers in Washington understand that it is unacceptable to place criminals in charge of law enforcement.
Robert Cozad
Oro Valley
Vindictive Trump
I briefly listened to Mrs. Kirk’s statement at her husband’s memorial, where she forgives the man who assassinated her husband. Following her comments, Trump proudly announced, “I’m not like that. I wish them bad. I hate. I don’t forgive”.
His MAGA — Make America Go Away — is working. He has lied from the get-go. Information coming from him and his administration is much worse than any talk show personality can jab at. And he has plenty to jab at.
Nancy Reid
South Tucson
Crime in D.C.
Rep. Andy Biggs of Gilbert is accusing D.C. attorney general Brian Schwalb of abuse of power for trying to control gun sales in D.C. Now, let me see, does anyone happen to know someone in D.C. who is also abusing his power?
Donald Bernier
Midtown
Epstein and Maxwell were accomplices
Both received favorable treatment from the Trump administrations.
Why are we not demanding the truth? This is a huge concern for many Americans.
And the rising costs on most everything due to tariffs. They are hurting all of us.
Time to find the truth.
Too many distractions. Sleight of hand games. Follow all laws and resist.
Dan Bannon
Midtown
The box score
Great New Yorker baseball writer Roger Angell penned a book titled “The Summer Season,” all about our national pastime during the 1960s. In it, he devoted an entire chapter to a seemingly insignificant sports section item, the box score.
Many baseball fans agree with Angell when he declared: “A box score is more than a capsule archive; it is a precisely etched miniature of the game itself, for baseball is the most satisfyingly mathematical of all our outdoor sports.” Consider that, please.
In 1941, my father, reading the box scores in the Chicago Tribune, exclaimed, “DiMaggio did it again!”
Joltin’ Joe had extended his hitting streak to 50 games. Eight years old, I was now hooked on the box score as a source of info on all teams and players in the big leagues.
Not long ago, the Star used to print a full page of box scores of every game played the previous day.
We fans miss those pages.
Jerry Helm
Northwest side
Vaccines
Ms. Schneider was correct in all she said about now preventable diseases as she focused on potential residuals. There are other aspects worth mention. When the child has a really high fever, say 105, someone has to stay home and use ice to try to control the fever. When the child is writhing in pain from mumps, again someone needs to be there.. Polio is another, much worse, issue.
Prevention is so easy. The child’s suffering and parental remorse are all avoidable.
If today’s parents do not have grandparents or great-grandparents to provide first-hand input, visit a retirement home or other gathering place for people who have experienced these diseases and ask.
Clarence Johnson
Oro Valley
- Mary Zimmerman, SaddleBrooke
Trump is in his garish Oval Office complaining that 97 percent of the media is against him. He thinks the problem is the media. There never was a man so totally incapable of introspection. What ever happened to his defense of free speech? The voters who elected a criminal should not be surprised that we now have a fascist bully in the White House.
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Cruz for free speech?
I was surprised to see Sen. Ted Cruz stand up to Trump’s call for the FCC to censor his critics. As a lawyer he should have an understanding of the importance of First Amendment rights, but I didn’t think that would override his loyalty to Trump.
My analysis was flawed. He wasn’t concerned about protecting Americans’ primary constitutional right. Rather, he said that if the government starts punishing free speech, “Let me tell you what will happen: Going down this road, there will come a time when a Democrat wins again, wins the White House,” he added. “They will silence us, they will use this power, and they will use it ruthlessly. And that is dangerous.”
It appears it wasn’t a commitment to free speech, but rather a fear that others would use the dictatorial power of his “Dear Leader” against him!
Bruce Hilpert
North side
First Amendment
So many Democrats complaining about the suppression of free speech. Where were they when the Biden administration was pushing social media companies to de-platform those they didn’t agree with? Where were they when Democrat states were trying to keep Trump off the ballot and deny conservatives the right to vote for the candidate of their choice? Where were they when the Biden administration was arresting pro-life activists for singing and praying outside abortion clinics? Where were they when conservative speakers were being shouted down or even denied access to college campuses? I wonder where all those Democratic voices were when Charlie Kirk was assassinated for exercising his free speech. Some decried political violence, but far too many celebrated and even said he deserved what he got. Killed for expressing his views on God, family and country. Spare me your angst if you can’t see the hypocrisy.
Dan Rusciolelli
East side
Right-wing ‘truths’
As if RFK Jr. weren’t filling the air with lies and nonsense that will result in many deaths, we have Brian Kilmeade of Fox saying that homeless people should be executed, Joe Rogan saying that the moon landings were faked, and Charlie Kirk backing “replacement theory,” the belief that Jews and others are working for replacement of white people in the US by other race. Worst of all, Kirk claims that gun rights are God-given.
And we have Trump obviously afraid of Putin: Why? It must be because Putin could at any time spill the beans that Russia did in fact help the Trump campaigns (it wouldn’t even have to be true). Social media are a political and moral disaster.
Herbert Schneidau
Foothills
TEP rates
Jason Rademacher’s op-ed piece in defense of TEP rates is an exercise in statistical whimsy. While he compared average residential costs both local and national, and average annual increases of only 2.1% over the past 25 years, he failed to mention the 25% increase in rates between 2020 and 2023 (Arizona Daily Star, June 10, 2025), or the recent request to increase rates an additional 14%. It brings to mind the Mark Twain quote: “Facts are stubborn, but statistics are more pliable.”
Sheldon Clark
Vail
Consider this
Re: “Things to consider” letter (Sept. 20):
Among “things to consider” in the letter, one concern is religious people ignoring the plight of the homeless, as if all religious people have “guilt by association.” Putting aside that broad accusation, an untold number of homeless people intend to be homeless, despite the fact that state and local municipal governments have programs to assist them. Many homeless people would rather be homeless than work for a living. I just got back from Atlantic City, N.J., after a reunion with cousins from Texas, Virginia and New Jersey. On the boardwalk around the casinos, we were accosted several times from seemingly homeless people. Always being hit up for money. There are electronic signs advising not to give them money. Why? Because it’s known the money will likely go towards drugs, alcohol or cigarettes. Even when I was homeless for over a year, I went to work every day, all vices excluded.
Daniel Pryor
West side
Vaccines
I am over 70 and feel sorry for all the young children that will be harmed by Robert Kennedy Jr. no-vaccine mandate. What is very sad is that the parents today have never experienced or known someone who has been impacted with mumps, chicken pox, measles, whooping cough, polio. My sister had measles over 70 years ago and was in bed for weeks, drapes drawn and after “recuperating” ended up with a learning disability. I had friends who could not walk for years but eventually were able with noticeable gaits. Men I knew later were sterile due to mumps. Wake up, young parents, and protect your children as your parents did for you.
Mary Beth Schneider
East side
Trump and the media
Trump is in his garish Oval Office complaining that 97 percent of the media is against him. He thinks the problem is the media. There never was a man so totally incapable of introspection. What ever happened to his defense of free speech? The voters who elected a criminal should not be surprised that we now have a fascist bully in the White House.
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
Avoidable
Every time a criminal illegal alien molests or kills a young woman, the absolute fact is that it was preventable. It is occurring over and over because the previous Administration allowed unvetted illegals into the country and the legal system refused to remove them when they committed previous crimes. Realize that these maimings and killings by illegals are the fault primarily of the Biden Administration. Violent crime will be reduced, not only by aggressively removing criminal illegals, but also by prosecuting career citizen criminals, a whole different category. Just imagine that your daughter was killed by an illegal and you realize it was preventable. It would be extremely difficult to get your arms around that tragedy and may very well destroy you knowing it could have been prevented. Folks, these types of crime can be and should be prevented, no excuses.
Loyal M. Johnson Jr.
Oro Valley
Heroes
Individuals recognized for their extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and contributions to all are heroes. A hero embodies courage, selflessness, and a commitment to the greater good, impacting society positively through extraordinary acts of service, leadership, or sacrifice. Heroes can be historically significant figures or less famous individuals such as first responders and ordinary citizens who act courageously during a crisis, like those who responded to 9/11. They advocate for justice by facing life’s challenges, holding strong positive moral principles, and dedicating themselves to making the world a better place. Examples include first responders, dedicated teachers, selfless volunteers. A divisive person is not a hero. Heroes support justice. Heroes are uniting. People who spread hope. People who go above and beyond. Peace inducing. Compassionate. Gabby Giffords, courageous and strong. The Dalai Lama advocated policies of nonviolence and showed concern for global environmental problems. Achievers of noble goals. Greta, a climate change hero.
Peter Bisschop
East side
Really?
I had to laugh at the letter “LTEs by Dems” — yet another Biden-bashing litany. The author ends the letter saying “Too many politicians are egocentric narcissists.” Can it possibly be lost on the letter writer that “his guy” tops the list of egocentric, narcissistic politicians? Mind-boggling!
Deb Klumpp
Oro Valley
More corruption
Trump is directing the DOJ to prosecute his political enemies “now.”
The Pentagon is banning journalism.
The FCC is targeting critics of the President to get them taken off the air.
Trump’s border czar took cash bribes then Patel dropped the case.
Trump honors a racist bigot and tells Democrats he hates them.
All in one week.
Terry Louck
East side
Facts or fear?
As the rhetoric escalates over the issue of political violence, Trump and his supporters have made vitriolic claims about the prevalence of violent attacks by the “radical left” individuals and organizations while largely dismissing incidents of right-wing domestic terrorist attacks. Accusations are many, but facts are few.
Fortunately, the National Institute of Justice, a division of the Department of Justice devoted “to improving knowledge and understanding of crime and justice issues through science,” has completed an extensive study on this issue. In a report published in June 2024, it found that since 1990, far-right extremists committed 227 incidents that killed 520 people; far-left radicals committed 42 acts that killed 78.
Will these facts play a role in this debate? Probably not. Especially since Pam Bondi’s Justice Dept. recently removed this report from the Justice Department’s website. So much for a factual debate.
Bruce Hilpert
North side
LTEs by Dems
I appreciate your attempts to defend your party.
But where were you when Biden allowed thousands of evil people to just walk into our country? Where were you when Biden did little to stop the flow of deadly drugs into America? Where were you when Biden tried to destroy women’s sports? Where were you when Biden (the racist) said that he would only name a Black or African American woman to the Supreme Court?
Too many politicians are egocentric narcissists.
James McFarren
East side
Free speech cuts both ways
I never heard of Charlie Kirk until he was killed. Since, I have read a number of his quotes that thoroughly convinced me that he was a racist, a bigot, a misogynist and an idiot when it came to defending the Second Amendment. A few must die to defend it? I bet he didn’t think he’d be one of the defenders.
I understand that Kirk was an advocate for totally free speech. So when he spewed hate, it was protected speech. Imagine that. But hate speech is indeed protected speech.
But now that Kirk is a far-right hero, anyone who doesn’t view him that way is damned for not doing so. School districts, governors, the Secret Service and the hillbilly VP, who wants all who speak against Mr. Kirk to be fired, hanged, pilloried or whatever, have determined that free speech is only available to those who agree with them. Welcome to Trump’s world.
Jim Rapp
Southeast side
Give despotism a chance, people
Far-right leaders are having “fun, fun, fun ’til Daddy takes the T-bird away.”
One of the great things about being a popular dictator is that you can perform gymnastic feats that ordinary citizens could never get away with.
For instance, Israel’s far-right Benjamin Netanyahu recently argued in an Israeli court that he can’t be held accountable at this time for the three major domestic crimes he has been charged with because he is in the middle of important foreign affairs. He is too busy committing international war crimes in Gaza.
This is the same argument Trump convinced Chief Justice John Roberts to make in America in SCOTUS’ presidential immunity decision. While he is in office for four years, Roberts says President Trump can’t be held accountable for crimes he commits during the course of his official duties.
You gotta give despotism a chance to do its thing before making judgments.
Kimball Shinkoskey
Woods Cross, Utah
‘Calling out ...’ called out well
Kudos to Melissa Cordero for her piece, “Calling out those who fan flames” (Star, Sept. 18). The well-written piece addressed a serious matter at hand today. Attacks on a council member showed just how convoluted the rhetoric from the right has gotten. Deflecting via projecting seems to be the M.O. of the day for so many of them. Sure, there’s enough to go around on all, but we’re seeing this more and more as the base premise coming out of (take your pick ...) the right, the GOP, MAGA, Fox, etc. But to call people out for speech “violations,” while so actively pouncing on as many as possible themselves, in an effort to control or dominate news cycles, get away with rants, or just re-flavor the cult cocktails being guzzled endlessly is plain old hypocrisy. Period. This needs calling out. Again, thanks, Melissa, for your spot-on piece.
Neil Commenator
East side
Chaos in the United States
I grew up as a Democrat. I changed my affiliation in the ’80s to Republican. In the very late ’90s, I changed again to Independent because I felt it was important to vote for the person, not the party. But now, I am changing again to Democrat and I will vote a straight ticket as a Democrat. Our United States is no longer united; it is divided, and it is totally due to one person and his minions. Our country is now laughable with China, Russia and Israel. I cannot condone the Nazi behavior taking place by the President’s administration. It is shameful. I do not have many years left, but I fear for my children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Wake up, America. Do something.
Vicky Smith
Marana
Pro cycling’s local rider
Tucson-born Matthew Riccitello, 23, recently came in fifth place in the three-week Pro Cycling Grand Tour La Vuelta A Espana (Tour of Spain). He also won the white jersey as best young rider. These are major accomplishments in the world of pro cycling. Tucson claims to be a cycling city, and I was extremely disappointed that there was not one mention of Matthew’s accomplishments during the entire three weeks of the race. Matthew deserves some recognition from his hometown.
Sheelagh Riekena
Oro Valley
Don’t you sometimes wish
Be honest with me, folks, don’t you sometimes wish that you could turn on the news without a threat, bluster, brag or promise from our fearless leader? Maybe a president who explains the good things about our country and doesn’t lie about how wonderful it’s going to be next week when he eliminates crime, immigration, malcontents or anyone who has the audacity to dispute any little thing he mutters. I know perfection isn’t possible, but why promise Eden when so much less is accomplished? Why say you will improve the economy when the reverse happens? Why brag that you can or will halt wars when they continue unabated? All I want is simplicity, not theatrics. Will it ever come to pass?
Philip Reinecker
East side
Jill Biden’s travels
Regarding Jack Walter’s LTE on Sept. 20: A quick search reveals how misinformed he is: No, Jill Biden did not fly back and forth from Normandy every day for Hunter’s trial. The First Lady did make a specific trip from France to the U.S. and back during her husband’s official visit for the D-Day anniversary.
Timeline of Jill Biden’s travel in June 2024:
June 4: Jill Biden, along with President Biden, departed for France to attend the D-Day 80th-anniversary commemorations in Normandy.
June 6: The First Lady flew from France to Wilmington, Delaware, to be present for Hunter Biden’s federal gun trial. She had to miss some D-Day events to do this.
June 8: She flew back to Paris to join President Biden for a state dinner with French President Emmanuel Macron.
The Democratic National Committee stated it would reimburse the government for the travel costs of this portion of the trip.
Bill Boaz
SaddleBrooke
Misguided politicians
I was turned away from my Walgreens appointment for my COVID shot last week because I did not have a prescription. Meanwhile, millions of mentally unstable Americans are allowed to buy guns. Politicians have very confusing priorities.
Russell Bonn
SaddleBrooke
Free speech is a two-way street
I don’t normally agree with Ted Cruz, but these are not normal times. I find myself in total agreement with Cruz that recent threats made by FCC Chair Brendan Carr related to Jimmy Kimmel’s show are in fact “dangerous as hell.” On his recent podcast, Cruz explained: “I think it is unbelievably dangerous for government to put itself in the position of saying we’re going to decide what speech we like and what we don’t, and we’re going to threaten to take you off air if we don’t like what you’re saying.” Having spent part of my professional life working among broadcast television news professionals, I couldn’t agree more. Again, Cruz’s words: “It might feel good right now to threaten Jimmy Kimmel, yeah, but when it is used to silence every conservative in America, we will regret it.” Free speech works both ways. If you want it to keep working, think hard about who you vote for in the coming elections.
Thea Chalow
Oro Valley
Facts are facts
How is it that you can slander someone by using their own words against them? If I call the prez a liar and sexual predator by reciting what he said like, “the election was stolen,” and “you can grab them by the “P***y,” am I slandering the convicted felon? I don’t think so. If I say that Charlie Kirk was a racist by posting what he stated on numerous occasions, am I slandering him? No. But for some who hold racism and being white in such high regard disagree vehemently with me.
I am pointing out a simple fact. Facts aren’t someone’s opinion. They are facts. Kirk was a racist, that’s a fact. If you don’t like it, well, you can write an LTE trying to explain how facts can be looked at as “alternative facts.”
John Bingham
Northwest side
- Paula Palotay, Marana
I would like to pass on a website for ABC feedback support for viewers who would like to make a stand for our First Amendment:
If we don’t stand up for something (in this case, our First Amendment rights), we will fall for anything. If I don’t want to watch a certain show, I use my remote to change the channel. That is where I exercise freedom; the government does not do it for me.
Paula Palotay
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David Byrne, Northwest side
My own toughness is questionable. However, in the 1960s I served in a Marine Corps infantry platoon in Viet Nam. The men I served with were tough. They served in dire circumstances. Yet, every time I visit Tucson’s Veterans Administration I am faced with a large picture showing Donald Trump’s scowling visage. He is what we called phony tough. He is an inveterate bully pretending to be so.
David Byrne
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Kimmel suspension
I just finished rewatching Jimmy Kimmel’s broadcast on ABC for which he was suspended. Kimmel loves mocking President Trump, and Trump is eminently mockable. Kimmel is creative and funny (view the entire monologue, not just his remarks about the Kirk assassination).
His suspension raises troubling questions about our freedom of expression guaranteed by the First Amendment and about the actions of the FCC in admonishing Kimmel and ABC. The First Amendment is silent about the content of what’s being expressed. It doesn’t matter that someone disagrees or doesn’t like it. And the FCC licenses broadcast stations but does not control broadcast content. Moreover, some owners and distributors of Kimmel’s show were needing FCC approval for future business decisions. This suggests the possibility of undue influence and even extortion on the part of the FCC.
I find it most ironic that hatred of government control drove so many to vote for Trump.
Dale Keyes
Northwest side
Dysfunctional Secretary of Health
Every time I read or hear the statements that come out of RFK Jr.’s mouth, I become physically ill. His total disregard of proven science is astonishing. The decisions and policies that he is putting in place are going to have such a negative impact on people of all ages. Paramedics and EMTs have far greater medical knowledge than he will ever possess. Unfortunately for me, there is no vaccine for my RFK syndrome. If there were, I probably wouldn’t be eligible to receive it. Now, senators in Congress who approved RFK Jr’s nomination are having second thoughts. They knew during nomination hearings that he wasn’t qualified, but they needed to follow the dictates of their master. Now we are all paying the price.
Fred DiNoto
Northwest side
The party of free speech
Our notoriously thin-skinned President got what he wanted, namely, Jimmy Kimmel being suspended. This follows the cancellation of Stephen Colbert. This is right out of the authoritarian playbook. Whatever happened to the Republican Party being the party of free speech? Nothing Kimmel or Colbert ever says is out of line or “fake news.” They simply have always told the truth about the awful things Trump is doing to our country, and they manage to do it with humor. Meanwhile, Brian Kilmeade, a co-host of “Fox & Friends,” called for the execution of homeless people. Where was the outrage over that? All of us need to keep speaking up against a would-be petty dictator. To stop means our freedoms will slip away one by one.
Mary Zimmerman
SaddleBrooke
Trump’s glare
My own toughness is questionable. However, in the 1960s, I served in a Marine Corps infantry platoon in Vietnam. The men I served with were tough. They served in dire circumstances. Yet, every time I visit Tucson’s Veterans Administration, I am faced with a large picture showing Donald Trump’s scowling visage. He is what we called phony tough. He is an inveterate bully pretending to be so.
David Byrne
Northwest side
All is not lost
My parents always taught that if we were willing to complain, nice things had to be acknowledged. In this age of extreme polarization and distrust, something restorative happened to us: My husband found a young woman waiting at his car when he finished shopping. The woman told him that she had hit his car, and she gave him all of her information. She said she would personally be responsible for the damage without contacting her insurance company. She urged him to get the car fixed and, I confess, we wondered if we’d ultimately be stuck with the bill. While the car was in for repairs, we received a phone call informing us that the cost was covered. We have no idea of her political ideology. We have no idea of her religion. What we do know is that she represents something we thought was lost in the U.S.: A sense of personal responsibility and honor. All is not lost.
Barbara Benjamin
Foothills
Suspension of Jimmy Kimmel
I would like to pass on a website for ABC feedback support for viewers who would like to make a stand for our First Amendment:
If we don’t stand up for something (in this case, our First Amendment rights), we will fall for anything. If I don’t want to watch a certain show, I use my remote to change the channel. That is where I exercise freedom; the government does not do it for me.
Paula Palotay
Marana
Democratic elites
The recent Ward 3 public meeting concerning the Star Village homeless site appeared to be a lecture from the Democratic elite about what they have already decided.
I want to remind us about the numbers 27 and 30. Only 27% of Americans respect the Democratic Party. On the recent Proposition 414, only 30% of the electorate voted yes.
Other Democrats are starting a new tactic. Joseph Kennedy III is walking from house to house, knocking on doors, and asking people what is important to them, their concerns, their needs and their wants.
Imagine.
Susie Morris
Midtown
The destruction of dissent continues
MSNBC has been under attack for years by Trump, due to its dissenting opinion. Then it spread to Stephen Colbert with his ouster. Next on the chopping block was Jimmy Kimmel, with his removal. These actions not only reflect fascism but also the mindset of the leader. Authoritarian leaders are known for their God-like self-image. With that comes the notion that they are perfect and that dissenting opinions are traitorous. Dissent of dear leader is seen as a personal attack on their grandiosity and superiority. Dissent can damage their narcissism, so it must be ended to protect their self-image. Attempting to ban dissent is not the action of a man trying to promote democracy, but of one trying to promote fascism. The Constitution allows dissent, but Trump seems to want his own Constitution, based on his grandiose self-image. If we extrapolate our current trend into the future, we will see darker days ahead.
Steve Rasmussen
Foothills
LTE bias?
Re: Sept. 14 LTE “Fair and balanced”. Our Loyal contributor sees a bias in Star editors, claiming 90% of letters favor Democrats. More accurately, 90% of letters favor facts and truth. As to the suggestion that Pima County conservatives “are illiterate, red-necked rubes, who are incapable of expressing a cogent opinion”: That’s his characterization, not mine, but I wouldn’t argue the point with him.
Gary Susko
Midtown
Thank you, Star, stars and astronomers
Thanks to the Star for headlining astronomical studies on your front page, most recently “New study sheds light on how black holes binge and purge.” You have a great headline writer as well!
There’s a local angle, given that the UA, Kitt Peak, and NOAO’s successor NSF-OIR are all involved, but it’s also cosmic. O’odham leaders decided to permit an astronomy installation on their sacred mountain after the “long eyes” (astronomers) showed them the heavens through a telescope. These elders teach us to value the long view.
A “You Are Here” postcard (Vision Works) features an arrow showing our tiny speck in the galaxy, itself one in billions of galaxies, adding that Earth is “the only one we are certain supports life.”
In fraught times, it helps to take such a long, really long, even cosmic, view. May it remind us to treasure our tiny place in the universe.
Ila Abernathy
Midtown
Riddle me this
Christian evangelist Charlie Kirk spoke on college campuses, proselytizing impressionable American youth into believing that, as a “Christian country, we should all live under the tenets of 2025-year-old Christianity.” The First Amendment guaranteed him this right. The Constitution stipulates that every “person” in this country has the right to free speech.
Unless you’re satirizing the king.
If you write articles or LTEs, state opinions or tell jokes, you risk alienating the omnipotent ruler. He’s now considering an executive order suggesting it would be illegal to make fun of him.
Colbert made him angry. He paid through extortion over “an FCC ruling.” Trump promised Jimmy Kimmel was next, freeing negotiations (and approval?) from his FCC over football TV rights. You’re all witnesses. He warned Meyers and Fallon to beware, lest he revoke NBC’s FCC license. Now he’s after David Muir.
These firings are all about satirical comments made under First Amendment rights, which Trump championed for Kirk, but not for the left.
Answer?
Sheldon Metz
Foothills
Free speech
Our First Amendment guarantees freedom of speech without government interference. FCC head Brendan Carr is pressuring media companies to fire certain left-leaning personalities at the behest of the thin-skinned authoritarian in the White House. CEOs must bend the knee to Trump or Carr has the power, among other things, to quash huge money-making business deals like the recent $8 billion merger between Paramount and Skydance. Prior to that merger, CBS paid Trump a settlement of $16 million after Trump accused “60 Minutes” of editing an interview with Kamala Harris.
Follow the money. Trump and Brendan Carr are reshaping our entertainment, news and information as they trample freedom of speech.
Karen Allison
Three Points
The fraudster’s friend
How is it possible that white-collar fraudsters like Trevor Milton, Devon Archer and Carlos Watson, who were convicted of stealing hundreds of millions of dollars, can get away with their crimes, facing no penalties, no prison time, no restitution to victims? It’s simple: just cozy up to President Trump.
Then the SEC will jump to attention and, although technically an independent commission run by a Trump appointee, what Trump wants, Trump gets. So the criminals, already pardoned and granted clemency by the President, do not face the usual penalties and consequences of an SEC enforcement action — they go scot-free. He pardoned these egregious criminals before they even started serving their criminal sentences or making any restitution payments. Trump simply jumps the line, completely ignoring Justice Department guidelines that offer similar treatment only to criminals who have already served time and paid restitution to their victims.
Yep. It’s nothing but the best for criminals and con artists ... from one of the best.
Melody Sears
North side
Protect it or lose it
Before you condemn something or someone based on the words of a politician, investigate. Simply because you’ve heard the words before doesn’t mean they have value or validity. Stop leaving the fight to others. The basic Constitutional rights you are losing matter. History matters. Science matters. Treating others with respect matters. Your lives matter, and you sell yourself short when you don’t stand up to those who would try to bamboozle you with half-truths and innuendo.
Cynthia Schiesel
East side
- James Abels, Midtown
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr did not like Jimmy Kimmel’s statements of opinion regarding Charlie Kirk’s assassination. Carr and Trump have suggested imposing sanctions against owners of broadcast licenses that criticize Trump or make what they deem to be offensive statements.
This is not the first time Trump has talked about revoking broadcasting licenses of networks that provide unfavorable news coverage of his statements and activities.
Historically, suppression of ideas, the press, legislative and judicial branches have been the method of repression chosen by authoritarian governments.
Can the conservative LTE writers explain how pressuring ABC, a subsidiary of Disney, to fire Jimmy Kimmel is not an abuse of First Amendment rights by the federal government? Remember, Disney has merger business pending before the FCC. Also, Jimmy Kimmel Live! is 6th top rated show as of 9/17/25.
James Abels
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
First Amendment
I am convinced more than ever that most of us don’t support freedom of speech. Supporting the killing of Charlie Kirk is not freedom of speech. Supporting the firing of someone who criticized Charlie Kirk is not supporting freedom of speech.
Supporting the killing of a Democratic Minnesota legislator in her home is not freedom of speech. Criticizing that same legislator is. Supporting the beating of Nancy Pelosi’s husband with a hammer is not freedom of speech. Criticizing Pelosi is.
Finally, just because the Constitution allows us freedom of speech does not mean we should say everything that comes to our mind. Words have consequences.
Howard Strause
Foothills
Wondering ...
— What alleged crime might Trump be charged with first when he leaves office?
— Will RFK Jr. be charged with premeditated murder when people start dying from lack of vaccines and medical research?
— Will ICE begin a review of Einstein Visa applications?
— Will the Supremes review the U.S. Constitution and discover the Emoluments clause, the words “well regulated”, or the terms relating to freedom of religion and due process?
— Will the unqualified and incompetent Trump administration destroy American health, education, economy, society, judicial system, and national security before Congress and Supreme Court justices find the courage to uphold their oaths, the Constitution and rule of law?
— Will the United States survive this ship of fools and be able to make America great again?
Todd Ackerman
Foothills
Royal reception for Trump
Courtesy of the U.K., our illustrious leader took another “giant step” toward becoming King of the U.S.
I almost retched watching what the U.K. Ministry of Defence said was “the largest (ever) for a State visit.” I expect “Pomp and Circumstance” from the Brits, it’s OK and in their DNA. But come on people, it was horrendously decadent, over-the-top, unrestrained, vulgar, ugly and grossly obscene. Too much of the world faces catastrophic famine. Think Ethiopia, Uganda, Gaza, Haiti, South Sudan. Even in our “land of plenty,” hundreds of thousands of children go to bed hungry, without SNAP, WIC and many other domestic programs recently gutted by a gutless Congress. Internationally, $60 billion of USAID was cut — for us and in the world’s eyes — this is our greatest weapon against Putin, Xi Jinping, Kim Jong Un and the other dictators. Gleeful, they can hardly wait for us to become a Third World country. Are we too late?
Butch Farabee
Oro Valley
Things to consider
Why do people claiming to be “religious” ignore the problem of homelessness? Every religious leader from Moses, Jesus, Muhammad, etc., preached helping those less fortunate than you.
Who needs all those immigrants? Everyone will have a Trump Victory Garden.
White replacement theory? Guess what, it’s true. Fifty percent of the world is Asian, and 15% is black. White guys? Less than 9% and shrinking.
A zoonotic disease that kills millions? Just a matter of time if RFK Jr. is successful with his anti-vaccine agenda. Don’t worry, RSV will probably kill your kids first.
Manufacturing in the U.S.A.? China’s manufacturing capacity is greater than the next nine countries combined.
Climate change is real. If you’re lucky, you’ll be dead before you have to explain your denial to your kids.
Drinking water? We’ll just mine it.
George Ball
Midtown
The lowest point was reached
Ever since the murder of Charlie Kirk, I have read carefully every day, the letters whose theme is he was a man with the wrong beliefs.
To denigrate the person who was killed is disgraceful. You should all be ashamed, but of course you won’t because that is who you are.
The absolute low point was in the Sept. 18 Star. It wasn’t a letter from locals but was on the Opinion page, an article written by Kelley Benson. In it, he said, “And it comes on top of an extraordinary spectacle: taxpayers footing the bill for Air Force Two to carry Kirk’s remains, with honors usually reserved for military members or senior government officials.”
I wonder if he complained when Jill Biden flew Air Force One back and forth every day from Normandy to sit in Hunter’s trial, I assumed to intimidate the jury.
Jack Walters
Northeast side
Trampling the First
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr did not like Jimmy Kimmel’s statements of opinion regarding Charlie Kirk’s assassination. Carr and Trump have suggested imposing sanctions against owners of broadcast licenses who criticize Trump or make what they deem to be offensive statements.
This is not the first time Trump has talked about revoking broadcasting licenses of networks that provide unfavorable news coverage of his statements and activities.
Historically, suppression of ideas, the press, legislative and judicial branches have been the method of repression chosen by authoritarian governments.
Can the conservative LTE writers explain how pressuring ABC, a subsidiary of Disney, to fire Jimmy Kimmel is not an abuse of First Amendment rights by the federal government? Remember, Disney has merger business pending before the FCC. Also, Jimmy Kimmel Live! is the sixth-rated show as of Sept.17.
James Abels
Midtown
Misdirected op-ed
First, I want to commend Joe Watson for turning his life around. Joe’s recent op-ed was misdirected. In 2007 Joe perpetrated a string of armed robberies of beauty salons in the Phoenix valley. He was caught and sentenced to 12 years in prison. The criminal justice system broke the cycle of violence Joe was perpetrating, and caused him to face up to his own poor decisions and reflect on the terror he caused his female victims. Cops see the devastation of violent crime every day. As such they see the value in removing violent people from society to prevent further victimization and to protect officers, because violent criminals pose a threat to everyone. For every “Joe” there are 5 to take his place. Crime results from failed individual choices and beyond the control of the police. There is a sentencing guide that provides for fair sentencing. Yes, the criminal justice system has flaws, but the TPOA wants to protect our community, Joe of all people should understand that.
Richard Harper
Northeast side
‘LTEs by Dems’
No, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama did not make up fake documents against Donald Trump. This idea stems from a discredited conspiracy theory alleging that they directed a “Clinton Plan” to create false intelligence connecting Trump to Russia. In reality, multiple investigations have found no evidence of such a plot. During President Barack Obama’s world tours and other travel, his family accompanied him at taxpayer expense when the travel was official business. According to policy for presidential travel, a distinction is made between official travel, where the government pays costs, and personal or political travel, where the family must reimburse the government for costs such as equivalent commercial airfare. DT seems to be trashing of the Constitution & abusing power. DOJ wasn’t weaponized, until DJT — FCC weaponized too. (Long live Kimmel and Colbert!) National Guard abuse. Bankruptcies. Abuse of power with EOs. January 6? Word fumbling? Firing highly qualified people?
Peter Bisschop
East side
The circus never leaves town
The circus landed in Alaska. The red carpet, like the ones Hollywood starlets strut across, ushered the Clown Brigade in front of the cameras. The two Bozos shook hands and smiled.
What a show!!! Bozo No. 1 had B-2 bombers with fighter jets scream across the sky, while Bozo No. 2 had his bombers bomb civilians in Ukraine.
For three hours, the Bozos talked about what could have been said in a zoom meeting, how to stop the war. How can peace talks be held while one side is actively bombing the other side? How many people are losing their lives because of not requiring a ceasefire as a prerequisite to peace talks? Duh!!
As the meetings ended, the SS Monkeys were let out of their cage, and they scampered around big black vehicles like the Gargoyles of Notre Dame. At least six black limos and many other cars were in a procession to usher the Big Bozo to his plane.
What became of this meeting?
Ed LeGendre
East side
Kindness
Could we all let go of our fear and hate and give kindness a chance right now?
Be kind to your fellow beings and be kind to the earth. It is our only home right now.
Thank you.
Marilyn Bernzott
Southwest side
Misleading quotes slander Kirk
To paint Charlie Kirk as a racist is to kill him all over again.
The following quote was attributed to Kirk in the Arizona Daily Star on Sept. 18: “Black women do not have the brain processing power to be taken really seriously.” An opinion contributor wrote it, but that does not excuse the Star for allowing it to stand.
What Charlie said 53 minutes into his July 13, 2023, podcast was, “You do not have the brain processing power to be taken really seriously”. This jab was aimed at four specific, black, liberal women; not black women in general.
Another Kirk quote: “If I see a black pilot, I’m gonna be like, ‘Boy I hope he’s qualified’”. Sounds racist, but in his podcast on Jan. 18, 2024, Charlie was talking about a scenario where pilots are hired on the basis of being black, not on having superior qualifications. The context changes everything.
I shouldn’t have to open the paper and do my own fact-checking.
Kevin Wohlford
Northeast side
Project Blue again?
I sincerely hope the County does some data analysis and review of alternatives regarding a “water cooled system” for this project if they want to proceed. Also, TEP needs to show how it will provide power without increasing rates. This information is vital for both the County and its constituents, after all, we will all bear the financial brunt in the end. Please, Supervisors, keep us informed. Not all of us can attend meetings.
Debbie Smith
Foothills
- Richard Rebl, East side
I find it interesting that President Trump – who successfully dodged the draft and despises the military to whom he refers to as “losers and suckers” – is now engaged in making war on the people of America and other countries, but not surprising as he now commands such forces as the President of the United States. In previous times, the spectacle of a fight to the death between two warriors was a common way to entertain not only the emperor but the citizens as well to take their minds off the problems of everyday life. Often referred to “bread and circuses”, I would refer to this as “blood and sand” because the commander and chief is able to conduct and review such actions in real time given the technology we have. I find it frightening and abhorrent that the president is engaging his fantasies using your sons and daughters to carry such actions for no apparent reason other than that he can.
Richard Rebl
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Silvia Rouzaud, Midtown
Time to raise our voices and vote with our pocketbooks. CEO Bob Iger's decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel's show demonstrates corporate disregard for free speech, a fundamental right in our constitution, in our rapidly shrinking democracy (Thanks, Trump/MAGA). Google ABC/Disney boycott to see what you can do.
Silvia Rouzaud
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Karen Micallef, Oro Valley
There have been many letters to the editor lately expressing their sorrow and outrage over the assassination of conservative spokesman, Charlie Kirk. Most of them make a point of saying he was entitled to “free speech.” Well, so are television talk show hosts, Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel — both of whom have now been taken off the air for their jokes. My question to all of Charlie Kirk’s fans: Where is your outrage over their lack of “free speech”? Or does that right only extend to conservatives?
Karen Micallef
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
Consistent beliefs
Honest self-reflection:
If you generally agreed with Charlie Kirk’s philosophy and beliefs, you (as I) are understandably very upset with his killing.
But the real test is for those of you who disliked, even hated Kirk’s religious, political and social message. If you too are not outraged by his killing, something is wrong with you.
If some deranged lunatic were to execute Gavin Newsom, or Adam Schiff, or Jasmine Crockett — I can honestly say I’d be outraged as well.
If your beliefs and standards depend on what side is being targeted, then you have no beliefs. Stand for something.
Or stand for nothing.
Bud Snyder
SaddleBrooke
Send Grijalva to Congress
Adelita Grijalva won July’s Democratic primary election in a landslide to succeed her father, Raul, in the House of Representatives for Congressional District 7. But that was just the first step.
To advance to Congress the most qualified candidate to represent our district, vote for Grijalva in Tuesday’s general election. After serving as a TUSD board member for 20 years and a Board of Supervisor for four, she knows best our region and its needs.
Among issues she will tackle: promoting affordable housing; protecting Social Security and government jobs, and defending our water supply and environment. She will fight vigorously against steps taken by President Trump to cripple Medicaid and his actions designed to stifle the voices of those who oppose him.
If you still have a ballot mailed to you, drop it off at the County Recorder’s office, 240 N Stone Avenue, or at a voting site.
Grijalva volunteer
Frank Sotomayor
West side
Juan and more
Really Juan? You just finished kneecapping Medicare and Medicaid for seniors, and you advertise yourself as the “trusted congressman for seniors.” Do you think we are so feeble-minded and forgetful that we can’t remember back just a few weeks? Don’t misjudge us. As for recent attacks on politicians, citizens are tired since Reagan and “trickle down” has anything, health care, schools, infrastructure, air quality and numerous things gotten better? We pay our taxes for programs that we want to improve our lives, then politicians disregard us as “you don’t know what you want” and divvy up our taxes for their own programs. The people are constantly overridden and being made to “earn” the benefits we paid for. Apparently, we don’t matter, and some people think the way to be heard is by extreme violence. Wake up, politicians, and start listening to us.
Daniel Poryanda
Southeast side
‘Please stop us’
Re: “Dangers of chatbots”, ADS, Sept. 17.
The Atomic Bomb, 1945 — an amazing triumph of human ingenuity. But … “Please stop us,” many of the inventors (e.g., Robert Oppenheimer) pleaded, “This thing could destroy mankind.” The answer to the plea: “No, sorry, we can’t stop. The Russians are catching up.” And so ingenious humans brought forth “Mutually Assured Destruction.”
Fast forward to the 21st century — AI, another amazing triumph of human ingenuity. But … “Please stop us,” many of the inventors (e.g., Sam Altman) pleaded. “This thing could destroy mankind.” The answer to the plea: “No, sorry, we can’t stop. The Chinese are catching up.” And so ingenious humans are bringing forth “The Singularity.”
There’s a pattern here. I think the Greeks called it “hubris.” It doesn’t end well.
George Timson
Midtown
Assassination
The killing of Charlie Kirk was a horrendous act by a scum of the earth individual. This man had a wife and family and was entitled to free speech. I must admit, however, that many things he said I disagree with. “Gun deaths are worth it to have a second amendment.” “Black people were better off in the 1940s under Jim Crow laws.” “Taylor Swift, submit to your husband, you’re not in charge.” “Black women do not have the brain processing power to be taken really seriously.” “Casting Jews as drivers of anti-white politics.” There is much, much more, but you get the point. His ideas, while his own, hopefully do not represent mainstream America. Somehow, we find people wanting to erect statues for this guy, while his most redeeming feature was his being loud and opinionated.
Philip Reinecker
East side
Star Village
While resistance to Star Village from the neighborhood is understandable, I do take issue with the statement by Kevin Daily that moving this space to the jail would be a safe solution. The jail is in the middle of multiple neighborhoods. Perhaps he is ignorant of the 30 reported inmate deaths since 2021 or the five inmates who escaped or were mistakenly released. There is also the adjacent Reentry Center on Starr Pass. Our neighborhood is very aware of this because of multiple sex offender notices we receive each week from this facility.
We commend the efforts of the City and County for providing safety and services to address the housing crisis in Tucson. Other neighborhoods should understand that the south side has lived with the unhoused population for decades and we understand that we are all part of the same community and they should not be demonized as criminals or a nuisance. If Daily wants to offer a safe solution, it should go beyond “Not in my neighborhood.”
Jason Huaraque
Southwest side
Murder of Kirk
I am confused by many of the recent LTEs in response to the murder of Charlie Kirk. They generally all begin with the writer stating they are not condoning the act (the murder). Then they go into great detail to provide examples of supposed statements or beliefs of Kirk’s that they deem objectionable. What is their point? Are they trying to find some little bit of justification? Maybe they do actually think his murder was legitimate because he dared to share his views and try to convince others. We seem to have a lot of people who think that way in this country of “free speech.” It’s not so free, after all.
Denise Walker
Midtown
Quarantine before vaccines
We need to remember: Before vaccines, whole families were quarantined for a week or more. It could be longer as each child in the family got infected. There would be a notice nailed on the front door.
Donald Plummer
Northwest side
You can’t make this up
Stephanie Murray of the Arizona Republic, in her article on Sept. 16 (AZ pastors compare Charlie Kirk to Jesus), wrote that attendees who were at a Charlie Kirk service “were concerned about online critics spreading misleading information about his political views” — and then proceeded in the next paragraph to take two of Kirk’s views out of context! She quoted five words (out of 12 years of public speaking) as examples of his “beliefs.” Also of note: The only comparison in the article between Kirk and Jesus was that they both were killed in their 30s.
And the media wonders why they have lost the trust of the public.
Tom Furlong
East side
Body hanging in tree
This is the entirety of an article appearing in the Star for Wednesday, Sept. 17: “Death: Police on Tuesday investigated the death of a Black college student found hanging from a tree on the campus of Delta State University in Mississippi; authorities said there was no initial evidence of a crime.”
Huh? “No evidence of crime?” What, he hung himself? In public, in a tree? Or are we back to lynching? Charlie Kirk was overtly racist, but was this payback?
What has happened to our country? Preaching hate has consequences. Where will they end? I am terrified. Our country is spinning out of control, with Trump’s foot on the accelerator. The hate has got to stop. It is destroying the fabric of our very mixed American society and shredding our relationships with the rest of the world.
This is heartbreaking on so many levels.
Regula Case
Midtown
We all know the symptoms
Quote by the wordsmith and author.
“When you see that in order to produce, you need to obtain permission from men who produce nothing — When you see that money is flowing to those who deal, not in goods, but in favors — When you see that men get richer by graft and by pull than by work, and your laws don’t protect you against them, but protect them against you — When you see corruption being rewarded and honesty becoming a self-sacrifice — You may know that your society is doomed.” — Ayn Rand
Judy Mercer
Oro Valley
Charlie Kirk
Until his recent murder, I had never heard of Charlie Kirk. So I am very surprised to see the outpouring of support for him after this event. In my effort to learn more about him, I read that on an Aug. 4 Podcast discussing the redistricting effort in Texas, he stated that “The great replacement of white people is far more sinister than any redistricting project.” So it would appear that he would consider my interracial marriage as “sinister.”
Alan Roehl
Green Valley
Nothing better to do?
Most of my accounting clients wanted an accurate picture of their financial condition on a weekly and monthly basis. A few wanted annual budgets by month. (A budget is a road map to profitability.)
Any well-managed business will look at its financial condition on a regular basis. A good CEO, of a publicly traded entity, should have financial data provided monthly or weekly. Semi-annual reporting may provide outdated information. Or fail to recognize a problem in a timely manner.
Reporting financials quarterly, per SEC requirements, should not be a material burden. The accounting system should be in place to “close the books” on a monthly basis, regardless. Adjusting the books to GAAP is the only added work, generally.
I look at the financials of stocks I research and hold. I value timely information when investing.
Trump needs to turn his attention to more significant items.
James Abels
Midtown
LTEs by Dems
I get such a kick out of the liberal Democrats’ LTEs bashing Trump. I get it! Trump is a bipolar, bullying, bombastic blowhard.
But where were you Democrats when Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama made up fake documents against Trump? Where were you when Obama took his family on his world tours at taxpayers’ expense? Where were you when the Biden “mafia family” had illegal dealings with foreign countries? Where were you when Biden weaponized the DOJ against Trump? Where were you when it was obvious that Biden had dementia? I hear crickets. Maybe Michael Savage is correct in saying “liberalism is a mental disorder.”
James McFarren
East side
- Elinor Brecher, Foothills
Such a waste of time, all this flailing about for the cause of autism. Clearly, it's not Tylenol. Clearly, it's not vaccines. I've solved this conundrum, and it's so obvious that even a drug-addled, bear-carcass-toting, whale-decapitating, brain-worm-hosting sewage-canal merman should be able to see it. It's ... diapers! Every single child with autism once wore diapers. How can there be any doubt? So from now on - and this should please the raw milk-swilling MAHA (Make American Healthy Again) crowd - babies must be allowed the sweet freedom of peeing and pooping au naturel, as God and nature intended. Outlaw diapers! Case closed. I'll take my Nobel Prize in medicine now, thank you very much.
Elinor Brecher
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
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