Letters to the Editor

Editor:

The final sentence in an April 10 Letter to the Editor begins with an oxymoron, “In fact, I believe . . .” The writer’s “belief ” that Trump is the greatest president in 100 years is contradicted by the facts in the following survey.

Brandon Rottinghaus of Houston University and Justin Vaugh of Coastal Carolina University carry out an annual online survey of members of the American Political Science Association on presidential greatness. Each participant is asked to rate every president using the simple scale: 100 equals great; 50, average; and 0, a failure.

Results from the Nov. 15Dec. 31, 2023, survey showed the most highly regarded presidents were Lincoln, 93.9; FDR, 90.8 and Washington, 90.3.

Presidents of the last 100 years achieved the following scores: Coolidge, 39.4; Hoover, 34.1; FDR, 90.8; Truman, 75.3; Eisenhower, 75.7; JFK, 68.4; LBJ, 72.6; Nixon, 36.4; Ford, 76.1; Carter, 54.4; Reagan, 63.6; H.W. Bush, 58.5; Clinton, 66.4; George Bush, 40.4; Obama, 73.8; and Biden, 62. Trump was in a class of his own, ranking 45th out of 45, at 10.9.

The idolatry of Trump is what led to four years of election denial by his followers, despite all evidence to the contrary, culminating in the assault on the Capitol. Trump, in a TV, interview admitted, “I lost, but only by a little.” Then he recanted that admission on his daily tweet the next morning.

Lee Hoyt Mutual 11 Editor:

In response to the letter (April 10) that stated Trump is the greatest president of the last 100 years, that is a very strong, off-the-wall statement. He is a convicted felon who was found guilty in a court of law. He should be in jail instead of the White House. He’s ruining this country and alienating practically the whole world with his stupidity, causing global economic uncertainty, chaos and total confusion around the world.

And even our representatives cannot speak for us anymore because they are afraid of losing their jobs. And the frivolous terms set out by Trump and his best friend Chainsaw Musk to justify those tariffs make no sense whatsoever. Congress, not the president, is supposed to be setting trade policy because that’s the law. Hopefully, Congress might be able to stop King Trump and his phony emergencies because Trump doesn’t understand basic economics. He is the worst president in our country’s history, and thinking otherwise is unconscionable. Stating that he is the best president is irrational thinking, which doesn’t align with reality or logic, and can lead to the distorted perceptions that put Trump in the White House. He is in need of a good brain cleaning to say the least.

Ilona Denes Mutual 6 Editor:

Consider our nation’s governance. Do your own analysis. Come to your own conclusions.

Regarding our national interests, I suggest our expectations are to experience democratically proposed and constitutionally valid actions. Also, we encourage and expect our leaders to perform their duties transparently and honorably.

National interests can include helping like-minded entities (both internal and international). In maneuvering through complicated situations, it is best to have loyal and honorable friends.

Complete transparency is not always a “must.” I suggest acting honorably is a “must” and leads to trust. Assured trust is indispensable.

We have adopted treaties with the intent to establish international trusts (and for personal matters; the handshake and the enforceable contract. There are honorable ways to breach a treaty or a contract, and honorable consequences).

So, how are we doing?

Stan Verdi Mutual 2 Editor:

I was cleaning my medicine cabinet and discovered some pills I no longer needed. I had been told not to throw them in the trash.

I went to Optum as I thought they had a disposal service. I was told the pharmacy took care of that.

I went to the pharmacy next door and was told the fire department takes care of that.

I went to Rite Aid, where I had seen the drop box by the pharmacy. It was locked, but the pharmacist quickly unlocked it, and I finally got rid of my pills. My question is, why can’t either Optum or the pharmacy in Leisure World provide us with this service?

Charles Keller Mutual 12 Editor:

Community members interested in participating in a peaceful, non-violent protest as part of the next National Day of Action should meet at the Leisure World Globe today, May 1, and/or on Saturday, May 3, beginning at 2 p.m. on both days.

Stand with others to rally against government overreach and defend the Constitution of the United States. Participants are encouraged to bring their own signs, but there may be extra ones available.

If you’ve never participated in a protest before, I encourage you to engage.

I find it energizing to be among like-minded folks while standing up for a cause I believe in. Spread the word, bring friends and neighbors and let’s join together in the fight for our democracy.

Kelly Johnson Mutual 1