Opinion articles provide independent perspectives on key community issues, separate from our newsroom reporting.

Letters to the Editor

The US president is a role model. Do we want our children to be like Donald Trump? | Opinion

Former President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Greensboro Coliseum Complex on Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024, in Greensboro, N.C.
Former President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Greensboro Coliseum Complex on Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024, in Greensboro, N.C. kmckeown@newsobserver.com

What Trump represents

Who are young voters supporting for president? Poll finds shift between Trump, Harris,” (modbee.com, Oct. 23)

The U.S. president is a role model. Do you want your children to commit sexual abuse like Donald Trump? Disparage others, women especially, with vulgarities? Tell lies that endanger elections and court officials? Commit fraud and violate the Constitution? Con millions into believing dangerous falsehoods? Tell flagrantly racist lies and embrace white supremacists?

General Mark Milley called Trump “fascist to the core” and the “most dangerous person to this country.”

Please heed this advice from Minsoo Kang’s “The Melancholy of Untold History”: “Loyalty is a quality that is more complex than people realize. It is not an absolute virtue that all good people must follow, for even a virtuous person may commit evil by being loyal to a wicked person. For the wise, it must be balanced by the sound judgment of whether the person you are giving it to is worthy of it.”

Trump is not worthy of anyone’s vote or loyalty.

Steven Murov

Hughson

Opinion

Alanis’ legislative efforts

Retail theft and housing are issues in state Assembly race in Stanislaus County,” (modbee.com, Feb. 13)

I am writing to commend Asm. Juan Alanis for his leadership in addressing the growing issue of cargo theft through his legislative work. Alanis’ legislation, Assembly Bill 1972, expands the definition of organized retail theft to include cargo theft. This crucial legislation provides law enforcement and prosecutors with additional tools to combat organized cargo theft, which has been a persistent problem affecting rail lines and shipping lanes across the state.

By empowering the California Highway Patrol to allocate more resources and coordinate efforts more effectively, AB 1972 strengthens our state’s ability to tackle this significant issue.

Alanis’ proactive approach to public safety is making a tangible difference, and I am proud to support his efforts to create a safer environment for all Californians.

Elizabeth Gomez

Modesto

Get out the vote

Is it safe to mail in your ballot in California? What to know ahead of Election Day,” (modbee.com, Oct. 23)

The right to vote is essential to a well-functioning democracy. When we vote, it is a fundamental expression of our democratic participation because it allows the power of the people to have input in shaping the government and public decision making.

To avoid eroding democracy and to keep elections from becoming meaningless, you must exercise your right to vote and have your voice heard. Voting ensures the stability and well-being of society, supports our civil liberties and keeps the concentration of power with the people — not with a few individuals or groups.

Voting is a powerful instrument, and elections are determined by the people who show up and participate.

Linda Countryman

Modesto

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