NEWFANE-I have long refrained from responding to diatribes in opinion columns, but I cannot contain myself this time. This piece both angered and saddened me.
I am sad that we seem unable to have differing views without nasty, hostile, name calling that only serves to gin up more division.
When you call people "non-sentient beings," "monsters," and say they are members of "a cult," you eliminate any chance for constructive dialogue. It breaks my heart that so many of our good, kind, hardworking, community-minded neighbors are painted with the broad brush of hate.
You didn't fear them when you worshipped next to them, or fought a fire alongside them, or participated in Green Up Day with them, or shared a cup of coffee in your neighborhood. But as soon as you find out that they are on the other side of the political aisle, you fear them? Based on what, exactly? Shouldn't they be judged on the content of their character?
I am smart enough to realize that there is no true news - just opinions - and that goes for both sides. I am smart enough to understand how polls are manipulated. I am smart enough to see how statistics can be used to "prove" a point. I would remind you that there are outlandish stories put forth and repeated by both sides. If it sounds fishy, check it out with multiple sources.
The implication that Republicans are anti-immigration angers me. The actual truth is that we understand the value of migrants to our country. We also realize that we can't take all, no matter how much our hearts ache for their plight. They won't be served well if our ship sinks.
It needs to be regulated; people need to be vetted. There need to be sponsors. Absolutely no one with a criminal history should be allowed to enter. There is zero excuse for not knowing who is here and where they are. There have to be limits.
So call me a monster if you wish. I think it is common sense.
It angers me that you accuse Republicans of placing corrupt election officials, throwing people off the voter rolls, or in other ways trying to "screw the process." We can disagree on the scope of election accuracy, the opportunity for shenanigans, or which side employs questionable tactics. Don't think for a minute that your side is squeaky clean.
I would propose one possible solution.
If we stop funding wars, allocating support to nearly every country in the world, and do a simple 5% cut on all government spending (you know there is plenty of room for such a modest cut) we could use the money to lift people up in their own country which, as you said, is where they prefer to be. It is better for everyone involved if I help my neighbor fix his house rather than bring him permanently into mine.
Finally, I know "Trump derangement syndrome" is real. I have a bit of "Harris syndrome" myself. The difference is, I don't call you names, belittle, and insult you on the pages of our hometown newspaper.
Cristine A. White
Newfane
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