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Letters to the Editor

Modesto’s ‘No Kings’ protest leave residents feeling inspired, fired up | Opinion

The second No Kings rally in Modesto this year was held in Standiford Park on Tokay Avenue in Modesto, Calif., on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025.
The second No Kings rally in Modesto this year was held in Standiford Park on Tokay Avenue in Modesto, Calif., on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. jfarrow@modbee.com

Unifying president needed

Second ‘No Kings’ protest draws 1000 in Standiford Park,” (modbee.com, Oct. 18)

The Modesto No Kings rally is over, but it remains embedded in our hearts: The joyful smiles and waves; the imaginative signs; the honking car horns expressing solidarity; and the sense of unity with our neighbors was palpable and uplifting.

By now, it’s plain to see that President Donald Trump finds peace and happiness elusive. The United States needs a unifying president who respects the dignity and worth of every human being.

Diana Doll

Modesto

Love America, hate fascism

Second ‘No Kings’ protest draws 1000 in Standiford Park,” (modbee.com, Oct. 18)

At a local No Kings rally last weekend, many of the protesters carried signs to express how they feel. These homemade signs tell us the issues they care about most.

Some of the signs read: “Love America. Hate fascism;” “Keep your hands off my democracy;” “Stop pretending your racism is patriotism;” “Yes on 50 –– stop the power grab;” “Release the Epstein files;” “Medicaid saves lives;” and “Make America good again.”

Charlie Benner

Grass Valley

Prop. 50 is necessary

Does early voting data on CA Prop. 50 provide a hint at whether it will pass?” (sacbee.com, Oct. 21)

A handful of multi-billionaires have bankrolled opposition to Proposition 50, with scary and inaccurate claims. I hope California voters don’t fall for that.

If Prop. 50 passes, we can work toward a Congress that will hold the president accountable, protect the Constitution and prevent further attempts to rig and suppress the votes. Prop. 50 is a temporary measure to counteract unprecedented election-rigging.

Madge Strong

Willits

Protect democracy

Trump Said He Wouldn’t Touch the East Wing. Then He Tore It All Down.” (sacbee.com, Oct. 22)

Trump is taking a wrecking ball to the White House — which is par for the course, as he has already taken a wrecking ball to the rule of law, the Constitution and the separation of powers (among other long-held ideals of democracy).

Trump treats the White House as his northern Mar-a-Lago because he has no intention of leaving.

Susan Wallace

Cameron Park

Basic security

How California health care premiums could skyrocket if shutdown continues,” (sacbee.com, Oct. 20)

As a Stockton resident and parent, I share the concern that rising health care costs could further strain working families across our state.

Many Californians are already struggling with higher costs for housing, food and education. A spike in insurance premiums, caused by political gridlock in Washington, would hit those who can least afford it hardest. Families like mine, with children in college and younger ones still at home, depend on reliable and affordable coverage. When that stability is threatened, it’s not just a policy issue; it’s a matter of basic security.

Amy Schippers

Stockton

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