Tucson speaks up: Letters to the editor for the week of Jan. 9, 2026
- Updated
Our weekly round-up of letters published in the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ed Waymire, Midtown
At a time when the White House is proposing a partisan version of the January 6 insurrection, all Americans, regardless of party affiliation, are well-served by the release of the bipartisan deposition of Jack Smith to Congress, in full. The deposition is 8+ hrs in length, readily accessible online, and can easily be viewed in segments as breaks in questioning occur. The video of the deposition was released by the House Judiciary Committee. It is a compelling report that most of the world witnessed in real time, and Special Prosecutor Smith was able to analyze in depth.
Ed Waymire
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Edward Beshore, North side
The authority to make war is a right reserved to Congress in Article 1 of the Constitution. Furthermore, the War Powers Act requires that "The President in every possible instance shall consult with Congress before introducing United States Armed Forces into hostilities."
Now Donald Trump said military action may be needed to take Greenland. That would, of course, be the end of the NATO alliance.
So here we are. The warning lights are blinking red.
Apologists on these pages who have blithely overlooked Trump’s multiple violations of his oath should be asking themselves “What will I do when my line is crossed?”
We must vote out the members of Congress who have enabled his crimes this year, and fully repudiate the party in power in 2028, or there may be no options left.
Slow the creep towards authoritarian rule and speak up Tucson.
Edward Beshore
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Gary Haslett, SaddleBrooke
Conservative social media is blowing up with posts about the awesome defeat of Venezuela, led by Trump's assertion that it was one of the most powerful displays of American military might in history. Come on! It is Venezuela, a third-world country the size of Texas, with a 4th-rate military. It's not like Normandy or the Battle of Midway. I would compare it to more like the Arizona men's basketball team beating Three Point Charter School. Or course, beating Three Point would not cost several million dollars. And, no, we will not make a bunch of money from their oil. And, yes, most drugs will still come in to the U.S. through ports of entry from Mexico. And, oh, where are the Epstein files? Nothing like starting a war to distract us from that problem.
Gary Haslett
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Frank Hagel, SaddleBrooke
I am asking the entire Arizona delegation to Congress to come together and introduce legislation that will contain Donald Trump's threats to Greenland, Canada, Cuba, Panama and any other countries he has a design on, without a vote of Congress. He is no better than Vladimir Putin when acting this way and threatens the security of our country and our place in the world.
This is not anyone's America, regardless of political leaning.
Frank Hagel
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Cindy Doklan, Midtown
The good Senator Mr. Mark Kelly should double down on his statement every time Hegseth threatens action: “I will repeat: This administration is pitting our uniformed military and intelligence community professionals against American citizens.
“Our laws are clear: You can refuse illegal orders. You must refuse illegal orders. No one has to carry out orders that violate the law or our Constitution.”
Every time Hegseth demotes, censures, threatens, Kelly repeats the message. Provide a help line to call if servicemen or women are unsure if the order is illegal. Our country needs Mr. Kelly's message, not Hegseth's. Do not give Hegseth's retaliation any daylight. Our Senator should spend his time serving Arizona and the country, with eyes on 2026 midterms and the end of Trump 2.0. After that Mr. Kelly will regain whatever Hegseth stole from him. And Hegseth will be remembered as he should be, a drunk with a huge fascist tattoo.
Cindy Doklan
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dan Gipple, Southeast side
I’m contemptuous of any chickenhawk president. They have the power to send women and men to do what they were too scared to do.
Junior Bush’s daddy helped secure him a hard-to-get position in the National Guard, where Bush successfully protected Texas against any potential North Vietnamese invasion. He was asked about his National Guard assignment in 1988. He audaciously replied that if we had sent the Guard, Vietnam would have turned out differently.
We all know what happened with this chickenhawk’s decision.
Cadet Bone Spur’s daddy had a podiatrist, who was one of his tenants, secure him a medical deferment.
Both presidents were too cowardly, too terrified to fight alongside those of us who did.
Trump said he “was not afraid of boots on the ground” in Venezuela. Of course not. Just like 50 years ago, these boots will not be his. Will this chickenhawk’s decision turn out as disastrously as Bush’s?
Dan Gipple
Southeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Melody Sears, North side
First: Senator Mark Kelly, accused of "seditious" remarks for messaging active-duty troops, saying "Our laws are clear. You can refuse illegal orders," is being harassed by Pete Hegseth, who himself made the equivalent statement in a 2016 speech, saying that "the military will not follow unlawful orders from their commander in chief."
Second: Trump aide Stephen Miller insists that Greenland belongs to the U.S., and that the U.S. is running Venezuela. He considers international treaties ensuring every country's right to independence and sovereignty as "international niceties," thus ignorable.
Third: Speaker of the House Mike Johnson insists that the U.S. is not engaged in military hostilities or occupations.
Four: As my mother used to say: Bullpucky.
Melody Sears
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bruce Hilpert, North side
I vividly remember learning about the January 6 insurrection. I had spent the day in the desert and heard the news that afternoon. By that time, the so-called patriots had attacked the Capitol and violently occupied the Congressional chambers. The Vice President narrowly escaped lynching in an attempt to overthrow a lawful election at the President's urging.
I naively thought that even my radical-Trumpster, lawyer brother would have to see that his idol had no respect for our government and Constitution. The Republican lawmakers feigned shock but soon fell into line behind Trump. Today, I stand in utter disbelief at the outcome of this outrageous act. I could never have imagined that a cult leader could not only control nearly half the population but also set out to destroy our representative government, all from the office of the President. Can any sane person believe that our founders intended to create a dictatorship?
Bruce Hilpert
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Morton Cederbaum, Green Valley
Today is Tuesday, January 6, a day that President Roosevelt would have called "a day that will live in infamy". This was the date that a bunch of thugs, led by Trump, attempted to overthrow the United States government. My question is, why have the media failed to run articles or programming? Are CBS, NBC and ABC that cowardly?
Morton Cederbaum
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Peter Bisschop, East side
It may be Trump makes the news because he abuses his power and ignores Congress. He is out of control. The high level of negative coverage stems from Trump's actions, which include numerous "missteps and miss-hits" and challenges to democratic norms. Challenges to democracy, to rule of law, almost always get attention. Trump is now the most powerful head of state in the world, and one of the most impulsive, rude, arrogant, ignorant, disorganized, chaotic, nihilistic, self-contradictory, childish, self-important, and self-serving. It's not about the GOP, they have already lost control of him. Free speech, free press and free elections are under attack. Civility and Integrity, are lost. Under DT caring, compassion, concern for the country are vaporizing. Is there a bias? Give the country good news and we'll start talking about it. (The attack on Venezuela even surprised Congress.) Taking over the western hemisphere is not our role.
Peter Bisschop
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Eleanor Arnold, Northeast side
It is past time for Congress to intervene to stop our power-obsessed President from further destroying our country and our standing in the world. As Mama of the Carol Burnett show would say, "He has splinters in the windmills of his mind." Only in Trump's case, I'm afraid the "splinters" are logs.
Eleanor Arnold
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dwight Swisher, South Tucson
The invasion of Venezuela, and the kidnapping of President Maduro, under made-up pretenses, is no less than international thuggery. Like the extrajudicial killing of seamen in the Gulf or the Pacific, it's lawless, and for the seamen, it's murder. This administration just abandoned the international order which has kept the peace since the end of WWII. Now we are no better than Russia (or China), invading a neighbor nation for spoils using false excuses. This crime must not be allowed to continue, and those who executed it must not go unpunished. We are a nation of laws, and we are a nation that supports international law; We have no country without both. Join me in voicing your outrage and demands for accountability. Call and write to our representatives as often as possible so they know where you stand. Silence at this moment is complicity.
Dwight Swisher
South Tucson
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Don Gerlach, East side
All countries are now justified in holding the American people responsible for having established and maintained a ruler whose modus operandi is to dominate, control and "correct" the actions of other countries, at will, no matter the illegality of that action. And to think it's being done by a country that used to be noted for espousing -- demonstrating! -- the ideals of independent sovereignty and democracy.
Don Gerlach
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Tim Helentjaris, Northwest side
In what bizarro World do Americans now believe it is moral to use our military to mount a sneak attack upon a comparatively defenseless country with the express purpose of taking “their land and oil”? Our Orange President was very open about this but did get it wrong, it’s not our oil and land, it never was. I never signed up for this, an unlimited defense budget to use in attacks against another country at the expense of our younger generation being unable to afford health care, childcare, a home to start a family, onerous education expenses. Every Republican who supports this attack (Juan Ciscomani) should and must be made to pay a price for this war. It’s time to look in a mirror at our country’s actions, to see ourselves as others around the world now see the United States, no longer a bastion of freedom, but a warmonger not satisfied with our own great wealth but determined to steal from others as well.
Tim Helentjaris
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Randy Garmon, North side
Per Congressional Representative Juan Ciscomani's Facebook page, Ciscomani is in full support of the Trump Administration's actions in Venezuela. Ciscomani votes 100% in support of the Trump Administration's agenda.
Obviously there is a percentage of voters who support both Trump and Ciscomani, and I imagine those voters are satisfied as to how their political beliefs are being met. I am not in agreement with these people.
In 10 months, the midterm elections will be held. Ciscomani's Congressional District 6 seat will be on the November General Election ballot.
The Democratic Party's front-running candidate for CD 6 is JoAnna Mendoza.
I ask that if you are not happy with Trump/Ciscomani, that you owe it to yourself (and to like-minded citizens of CD 6) to research (and support) JoAnna Mendoza.
While you are at it, please take the time to research (and support) Democratic State Legislative candidates in your District, particularly if you live in LD 17 and LD 23.
Randy Garmon
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Cindy Soffrin, Northeast side
It is obvious that this Congress has no intention of reining in the current executive branch.
It is astonishing to what ends the current executive branch will go to deflect interest in the Epstein files.
It is frightening what could happen in this world as the current executive branch throws out the rule book that was developed after WWII to foster better ways of settling disputes other than using military and economic strength to "win." All conflicts have become "zero sum."
I pray that the citizens of the world don't believe that the majority of US citizens think that operating in this manner is acceptable, though we will all suffer as a result.
Cindy Soffrin
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ke Chiang Hsieh, Midtown
When the People’s Liberation Army attacks Taiwan, it will not be liberation, since Taiwan is a democracy. Any country invading another to topple the latter’s government, dictatorial or democratic, and seize its wealth or natural resources is not liberation, but pure imperialism. Trump’s action on Venezuela is simply mimicking Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, and willfully beaconing Xi to conquer Taiwan. Trump has furthered his vision of a new world order – three imperial powers each having its own sphere of dominance. Is this making America great again? In truth, it will lower America’s world standing morally, politically, and economically: from a champion of human-rights to a greedy bully; from a leader of democratic alliances to an untrustworthy autocracy; from free trader to tariff warrior to lose its trading partners and markets. It does not take a genius to see that Trump is actively making the People’s Republic of China the new world leader. Wake up, fellow Americans.
Ke Chiang Hsieh
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Kalyanraman Bharathan, Midtown
Mr Trump says that Maduro is corrupt and has ruined Venezuela, so it's okay for the U.S. to arrest him and take over the country.
In effect he says one nation has the right to intervene in another on the grounds of its corruption.
So here is a thought: the King of England can say that given the incredible corruption and constitutional violation going on in Washington, it's his duty to arrest Mr. Trump and take over the United States.
What fun that would be. We can go right back to the years before Independence.
Kalyanraman Bharathan
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jeffrey McConnell, West side
On Jan. 1 New York City's new mayor, Zohran Mamdani was inaugurated and announced, ‘We will replace the fragility of rugged individualism with the warmth of collectivism.’
Two days later another committed socialist arrived in NYC to belatedly join in the celebrations. Ex-Venezuelan president and brutal cartel drug lord Nicolás Maduro will be enjoying the warmth of collectivism in a publicly funded detention facility courtesy of the "rugged individualism" of the United States military.
Socialism fails everywhere, always. NYC is unfortunately next.
Jeffrey McConnell
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Maureen Salz, Oro Valley
Epstein files. Invasion of Venezuela. Want to know what's really happening within the current administration? Watch the movie "Wag the Dog."
Maureen Salz
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dan Bannon, Midtown
In 2017 , President Putin stated that the nation which leads AI will be the ruler of the world.
In December 2025 Trump signed an executive order for the purpose of preventing states from enacting or enforcing their own AI regulations.
Dan Bannon
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Anne Lane, Northeast side
Continual US interventions and regime changes have never served our national interests well, generating regional resentment, economic instability and chaos.
This directly leads to increased immigration because when a country's ability to care for its own people is destroyed, the people leave for better opportunities. America, in essence, has created its own immigration problems. And now Venezuela - interesting that Trump pardoned the "cocaine kingpin" president of Honduras but arrested Maduro on the same premise. He also said he'd send troops to protect protesters in Iran while sending troops to American cities to quash protests against his administration, which does not honor the rule of law nor the Constitution. He wants to "run Venezuela" and take over its oil production when he can't even properly run his own country. You can't make this stuff up. We live in truly surreal times.
Anne Lane
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Karen Micallef, Oro Valley
One reason President Trump keeps getting away with all he does is the media does not call him out on it. Case in point: Sunday’s front page story reads: “…the U.S. leader once again demonstrated a willingness to use U.S. forces for risky missions that come with a potential big payoff.”
What should have been written is: “President Trump once again violated the U.S. Constitution by unilaterally declaring war and kidnapping the leader of another nation without consulting Congress.”
His actions were a clear impeachable offense. We can only hope Congress does something to stop him, although I won’t hold my breath.
Karen Micallef
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Philip Reinecker, East side
After destroying small boats and killing the passengers, seizing tankers loaded with oil, capturing a foreign president and his wife, Trump's minions have now opened fire on suspected ISIS terrorists in Nigeria. Keep in mind that this military invasion is illegal and without approval of the US Congress. Who knows why Trump is doing these things?
To take the spotlight off Epstein, just because he can, maybe he had a bad golfing round and decided to take it out on others. Remember that nothing is ever his fault. Whatever the reason it must be stopped. When any of the forementioned shoots back and we respond we are in an all-out war. Trumps actions are identical to Putin attacking Ukraine, exactly the same. The world is against Putin and now Trump for their illegal and reprehensible actions. Trump is proving that he is demented and, I suggest, probably insane. We must, for the sake of our country, stop him now.
Philip Reinecker
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Richard Bechtold, West side
Trump orders the kidnapping of Nicolas Maduro using the CIA and the military without Congressional notification. Trump justified the removal of Maduro because he is a narcotics trafficker and a dictator. Maduro held fake elections to stay in power. Former President Juan Hernandez a dictator from Honduras was convicted In the USA of trafficking in narcotics , and Trump pardoned him. Putin, the dictator of Russia, holds fake elections where he "wins" over 90% of the vote. Putin attacks a democratic nation and Trump cuts funding to the nation victimized by Putin. Putin suffers no consequences for being a dictator who attacks and kills non-combatant Ukrainian citizens. When do Delta Force teams of the United States military go in and capture Putin and bring him to Brooklyn for his trial? Putin has oil too.
Richard Bechtold
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Gail Kamaras, East side
Trump’s invasion of Venezuela and arrest of its president has made the U.S. more vulnerable than at any time since WWII. He has violated U.S. law and the Constitution, usurping the exclusive power of Congress to declare war. He has violated international law and the U.N. Charter, putting us in the same category as Russia by invading a smaller country.
He claimed, in contradiction of all facts, that Maduro is a narco-terrorist sending fentanyl to the U.S. while pardoning the former president of Honduras who was convicted in our courts of drug trafficking. He now claims Maduro has stolen “our” oil. Even if private oil company assets were nationalized many years ago, that does not confer the right of invasion.
It is also sickening that our U.S. Rep. Ciscomani issued a statement supporting these illegal acts. One more reason to vote him out.
Gail Kamaras
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bruce Hilpert, North side
This morning I awoke to the shocking headline announcing the invasion of a South American country by the US military and the abduction of a “brutal dictator.” As I read more about the operation, I realized there were two brutal dictators involved. So sad that one of them is an American.
Bruce Hilpert
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Kathleen Harris, Foothills
During the last presidential election I heard Trump supporting friends say “I know, I don’t like him either, but he is anti-abortion, he will secure the border, fix the economy,” etc. So they voted for a man who was openly self-serving and cruel, a proven liar, had no respect for law or the Constitution, bragged about assaulting women, made fun of people with disabilities, berated our troops, tried to overthrow an election, blamed others for everything, and obviously had no moral values, integrity or character.
When you elect someone like that, what you get is a President who lies, has no respect for women or people different than himself, will employ illegal means to keep himself in power, will be totally self-serving and cruel, and has no integrity, moral values or character.
Perhaps voting for character first - instead of not at all - would work better.
Kathleen Harris
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dee Maitland, Marana
Since WWII, piece by piece, world leaders over 75 years built a Jenga tower of peace and cooperation among nations with laws, treaties, organizations and contracts. All these agreements have protected us from expansive wars. For reasons of greed and retribution Trump and his enablers have been removing pieces from this tower. Their invasion and takeover of Venezuela may be the piece that makes the tower fall and causes world chaos and war. With this invasion and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine megalomaniacs now know they can take countries and their resources at will. Trump disparages our European alliances. He ignores the United Nations. He sides with Putin. He deports and destroys families of non-white people which may give a rise to future terrorists.
Might does not make right. Might makes enemies. We’ve lost our moral authority. China and Russia have deals with Venezuela. They will not take this lying down. Trump will topple the Jenga tower making Americans hated and unsafe. Be afraid. Be very afraid.
Dee Maitland
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Richard Kimball, Midtown
Jeffrey Who?
Not a single major news outlet knows.
Not a single story?
Not an update or mention, he is just gone.
Mass pedophilia over the decades made boring, just like that.
Richard Kimball
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Richard Bechtold, West side
The US never stopped and searched any of the 36 vessels (1 billion dollars' worth) destroyed and assured the crews were killed. Why would a drug cartel keep sending billions of dollars' worth of drugs in boats 36 times, knowing that the US Navy is right off the coast and can destroy every one of them with ease? Drug cartels have many ways to transport drugs. They are well funded. Why would fishing village people keep taking drug boats out into the ocean knowing that other fishermen never returned from taking out drug boats? Seems to me like a set up to substantiate the "narco-terrorist" moniker for Maduro. Trump goes into Venezuela "arresting" Maduro for drug trafficking, then sends oil companies executives to Venezuela to fix the oil industry on behalf of the Venezuelan people. Si Chuy. Wake up and follow the money. Trump's foreign policy is making money.
Richard Bechtold
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dan Pendergrass, West side
America has had third parties in power before and the current parties have changed ideologies over time, but nothing has essentially changed except the degree of division in the country over time. The main reason is the underlying vote system is flawed. It only allows for positive choice, but often time voters have someone they despise capable of rising to power. This just increases the level of division. If voters could register both approval and disapproval with the voting system then leaders that are revered, but not despised could rise to power. I believe that the true preference point system that I’ve written about in an LTE before can solve this problem and until a party is based on “process not platform” I won’t be joining. The ranked choice system doesn't solve this problem even though it is a step in the right direction.
Dan Pendergrass
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jay Gandolfi, Northeast side
Stop wasting time condemning President Trump. He is a despicable human being and can’t change, plus he is a puppet of his handlers who script his daily rants.
We do need to question the limited actions of our federal Legislators. They have the power to challenge the atrocities in Trump Redux. Legislators MUST respond daily to each of Trump’s questionable tirades. The public is shocked at the President’s behavior but equally puzzled by the relative silence from our Legislative Branch. If our legislators are not ready to challenge the President and his puppet masters, then we must elect bolder representatives who can better rebalance the governing of this country.
Sadly, the Supreme Court is no longer a deliberative judicial unit and has become a political tool.
Finally, we must stop the media from fueling Trump’s dominance of the news. The more you cater to his addiction for attention, the more he will perform. Ignore all the diversionary spiels and he will become frantic and implode.
Jay Gandolfi
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Richard Bechtold, West side
Trump follows Project 2025 to the letter. Two architects of this fascist doctrine are Russell Vought and Steven Miller. They are in the White House. Trump is the marionette. They tell him what policy to implement. He implements it and says it's his policy. Trump implements Project 2025 on tariffs, tax cuts, cutting government services, deporting working immigrants, military on our streets, and healthcare. When Trump feels his popularity slipping he reverses Project 2025 initiatives. Trump won't follow Project 2025 policy if it costs him attention and adoration. Trump restored funding for rural health care, lowered furniture tariffs, and removed the National Guard from Democratic cities. The sad part is that the GOP Congress allows Trump to implement Project 2025. The marionette is manipulated by Vought and Miller and the GOP Congress sits quietly enjoying the disastrous show. The only policy that is solely Trump's is naming stuff after himself.
Richard Bechtold
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David Berryhill, Sahuarita
If Donald was serious about drugs he would be talking about treatment for addicts. If all drugs stopped from Venezuela, it would do nothing about demand. Venezuela is all about gas and oil. We know one thing categorically about Donald, he only focuses on things that make him money. Drugs don't, but gas and oil could. Donald made the comment (and I am paraphrasing) "Venezuela stole our gas and oil rights and we want them back". Drugs are the pretext for regime change to install a government that will give Donald access to Venezuela's oil and gas reserves. On the plus side, Donald will bring illegal drug manufacturing back to America. Way to go, Donald.
David Berryhill
Sahuarita
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Philip Reinecker, East side
President Trump moaned, groaned and complained that he should have received the Nobel Peace Prize. As an aftermath he did receive the FIFA peace prize and he proudly draped it around his neck. The FIFA prize, as I'm sure you know, is almost exactly equivalent in value to the prize you get from a box of Cracker Jacks. Since that point Trump has orchestrated attacks on small boats off the coast of Valenzuela, alleging that they were carrying drugs. Since all occupants were murdered and no evidence was found they could have just as easily be transporting watermelons. Later our esteemed leader led the capture of two tankers filled with oil, thought they might have had drugs also, alas no evidence. Now he has directed strikes on ports suggesting that drugs may have been shipped from there. For the self-described peaceful Trump his actions suggest otherwise and are deplorable. Stay at home and take care of America's business.
Philip Reinecker
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Cynthia Schiesel, East side
Wishing everyone a healthy, serene, and happy 2026. Yes, this includes the misguided who follow the mean spirited little man who takes credit for the accomplishments of others; who demeans or tries to destroy those who might -- in defense of the Bill of Rights -- dare to disagree or question; who stops FEMA payments to states that are run by Democrats; who ignores the rules of law (such as due process); who attacks families suffering with the loss of loved ones; who destroys public property without permission; who is obviously enamored by a dictator whose ruthless and unwarranted attacks continue despite the simpering smile. Yeah, Happy New Year to all of you, from someone DJT describes as scum.
Cynthia Schiesel
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- William Brandt, Oro Valley
Our leaders have expressed an interest in getting rid of Maduro. The real reason seems to be to get the Venezuelan oil. If Maduro does step down, have any of them thought about what comes next? What happens if Vice President Rodriguez steps in and takes over? Will the Venezuelan military, the Cuban quasi military in Venezuela, and the drug kingpins that have been supporting Maduro now be supporting Rodriguez? Those people with money and power would probably not simply walk away with Maduro. If our leaders really want the Venezuelan oil these people would have to be rooted out. Who would do that? Would it be the U.S. military with “boots on the ground” and fighting in cities and the Venezuelan jungle? That would certainly cost many American lives. Do we really need the Venezuelan oil that badly?
William Brandt
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Beth Dingman, Green Valley
I just have one question for those who think Trump and the Republican Congress are doing such a great job: Why do you prefer having your tax dollars spent on masked ICE agents snatching people off the street; newly constructed prison camps; a 25,000-square-foot ballroom for Trump and his cronies (I’m sure you won’t be invited to the dance); billions in bailout for a right-wing Argentinian government; building up the arms race against Venezuela; when instead those dollars could be spent providing school lunches for our children; finishing construction on needed infrastructure begun under the previous administration; continuing cancer research and public health initiatives; and many other things from which we as Americans directly benefit?
Beth Dingman
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Tom Van Devender, North side
Loyal Johnson's LTE characterized Biden versus Trump as ‘a sloth vs the Energizer bunny’. Its just more MAGA denigration of Joe Biden. Yes, old people have low energy moments. But Biden was a quiet, honest man who made decisions with advice from his very competent Cabinet. Trump is a publicity seeking narcissist with his own social media site and Fox News who tells his incompetent Cabinet what to say. He is easily distracted with "war games" in the Caribbean, Middle East, and Democratic cities, while Steven Miller directs the "war on immigrants" and Russell Vought implements Project 2025. Biden is a devout Catholic family man. In four years, he accomplished a great deal, especially in infrastructure. Trump is a strong family business man who wields religion as a political club. In one year, he was wreaked chaos on the country. A better characterization would be Biden as a wise elder leader and Trump as an aging, raging con artist.
Tom Van Devender
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ron Lancaster, North side
Donald Trump’s health is a high priority in this nation. Little things like discolored hands, or his pattern to forego his nighttime sleep in favor of siestas during tedious meetings are worrisome for those whose jobs are tied to his cruel inclinations.
Many others use any sign of Trump’s decline as a reason to be optimistic that the dark tunnel we live in has a termination point. The pilot light may only flicker now, but it might ignite the bonfire on Trump’s narcissism and fake veracity.
Trump has shown the way to ferret out lawless officials from the mere pretenders, who will snap back to normal once Trump has left the scene.
Gone is the naivete of the pre-Trump era, where most politicians trusted each other's motives. Now, if it slithers like a friendly snake, it may have fangs.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Tom Van Devender, North side
McConnell’s LTE posed four points to consider:
■ Accept or deplore Trump’s narcissistic naming frenzy. A tough one. United States of Trump could be next.
■ Cutting funds for advanced nursing degrees is going too far. Yes, but its just a ‘tree in a clearcut forest.’ Let’s not forget defunding kids lunches, public education, public media, scientific research, etc. Or diverting the money to a White House ballroom, an Argentine bailout, swatting outboard motorboats in the Caribbean, billionaire economic security, etc.
■ Release of 100% of the Epstein files. Oh no, the December 19 deadline in the law already passed with only part of the heavily redacted files released that focused on Bill Clinton and not Trump. Real transparency.
■ $2000 checks to individual taxpayers from tariff windfalls. Nice but that money came from those same taxpayers. A better boost to individual earning power and the economy would be to rescind the tariffs.
Tom Van Devender
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Donald Plummer, Northwest side
And away we go but not sure where.
Are we and the world going through a natural political evolution of fascism again?
If it acts like a fascist it probably is.
We should notice how Hitler, Mussolini and Trump made speeches to their countries.
Holding a hand or fist menacingly in the air and screaming.
How does fascism arise?
Declaring "National Emergency" to be able to dictate.
Suppress/control the press.
Supported by the ultra-rich.
Rules by fear via politics and law.
Control the justice system.
Control the armed units.
Align education systems to their beliefs.
Denigrate some populations.
Hitler wanted Germany for Germans, and invaded Poland for a greater Germany.
Mussolini wanted Italy for Italians, and invaded Ethiopia for the new Roman Empire.
Trump wants America for White Christian Nationalists and said, of immigrants, "They are poisoning the blood of our country" and we should have fear of "The other".
Who will Trump invade -- Greenland or Panama?
We continue to ignore history again and again.
Donald Plummer
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Lawrence E. Mazin, SaddleBrooke
As we enter 2026, the nation’s greatest dangers are no longer abstract. Climate disruption, artificial intelligence, and nuclear weapons all demand sober, competent governance. Instead, we are saddled with Donald Trump and a cadre of loyalists who treat restraint as weakness and expertise as betrayal.
Trump’s climate policy has been hollowed out to appease his donors, even as fires, floods, and extreme heat batter communities and economies. Artificial intelligence races ahead with little oversight, increasingly weaponized for surveillance, propaganda, and profit, while Trump’s allies sneer at regulation as “woke.” Nuclear risk, once constrained by diplomacy and treaties, has been inflamed by reckless rhetoric, treaty abandonment, and contempt for allies.
The gravest threat is not technology itself, but leadership that prizes loyalty over competence and impulse over foresight. Climate stress fuels instability. Instability invites authoritarianism. AI accelerates every bad decision.
This is not partisan hysteria. It is a warning. As 2026 begins, Trumpism is not merely irresponsible, it is an existential risk.
Lawrence E. Mazin
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- John Bingham, Northwest side
Our Loyal friend has found another lie to keep him up at night. He's complaining that people see that his Hero and the black hearted felon is in terrible shape, physically and mentally. So, he complains about Biden. Sure, Joe was slower in the last few years of his presidency, who wouldn't be? He was assailed by everything the GOP could throw at him. But all of us with any kind of conscience slept well at night. We didn't wake up each morning wondering if the Liar in Chief had gotten into a twitter/X battle and took us to war while we slept. I realize there is no changing the "loyalty" of some even when the facts smack them in the face. We're all human. But remind me exactly what our current occupant of the former White House has done with the price of eggs and our economy.
John Bingham
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Matt Somers, Midtown
The Asia Times reports that Paul Singer of Elliott Management will add to his megafortune in Venezuela now that Nicolas Maduro is gone. This past November, Singer's company bought Citgo, the U.S.-based Venezuelan oil company for $5.9 billion after Venezuela defaulted on its bond payments per a Delaware bankruptcy court. According to the story, the court's advisors estimated the value at $11-13 billion and Venezuela said it was worth $18 billion.
Judd Legum, who reported this transaction, wrote that Citgo's refineries were designed for the heavy Venezuela crude oil. Trump's oil embargo on Venezuela oil to the US had caused Citgo to buy more-expensive oil from Canada and Colombia.
Paul Singer, personally and through Elliott Investment Management, is a major donor to the Republican Party and Donald Trump. Elliott Investment Management donated two $3500 amounts to Juan Ciscomani as of June 27, 2025, per the Federal Elections Commission.
Matt Somers
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Suzanne Ferguson, Midtown
The goals the Trump administration has in Greenland can be achieved, or are already being achieved, through normal diplomacy and just recompense: build defense facilities, mine for rare minerals. Why, then, is it necessary to upend the UN charter, longtime, commonsense norms, and our allies everywhere by "invading" a sovereign nation? In doing so we encourage China to invade Taiwan, Putin to continue his depredation of Ukraine and other former Soviet territory, and the radical Zionists to take over all the Palestinian lands. Is this not madness? Where are the rational people in the current government?
Suzanne Ferguson
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jerry Lujan, Oro Valley
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is censuring Mark Kelly because Mark reminded service members that they took an oath to support and defend the Constitution and that “you can refuse illegal orders.”. Pete first tried to have him returned to Active Duty so he could be court martialed. He failed in that so now he is censuring him. What authority does the Secretary of Defense have to censure a U.S. Senator for exercising his rights to free speech? Mark is a retired Naval Officer and not subject to the UCMJ. Pete is a former National Guard Officer and Hegseth is a civilian. How can a civilian censure a U.S. Senator? Pete should have been reminded of his marriage vows.
Jerry Lujan
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Brode Meyer, Midtown
Mr. Miller has blatantly exposed his stupidity by having no clue as to the population of Greenland as he has no clue and/or respect for the sovereign rights of Greenland. He is the most obnoxious self-assuming sycophant of the Trump regime. His claim to speak for the United States is insulting and absurd. His petty sorry excuse for a wife is no better. Together they are so despised they can not live in a private residence, and instead live in house on a military base. Miller time has come and gone. He should be censured and deposed
Brode Meyer
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ted Morrison, Midtown
We now celebrate the 5th anniversary of the most shameful day in American history. A day of infamy belongs to Pearl Harbor or it would be my first choice. The most despicable man ever to hold our highest office is back and still lying about that day, and perpetuating more shameful acts. He is violating the Constitution, killing unknown individuals on a hunch, and usurping the power of Congress.
It is my hope that he gets the same 'perp-walk' in the world court as he gave Maduro. Too bad he cannot feel the shame he has brought on our country and himself.
Ted Morrison
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David Tulanian, Henderson, Nevada
Well, well, well. Gov. Tim Walz, the failed 2024 Democratic VP nominee can add yet another title to his quiver: Dropout in the 2026 Minnesota governor’s race.
What will Mr. Walz say when reporters ask why he chose to quit? “It was all Donald Trump’s fault.” I say this because of his habit of blaming almost every bad thing in Minnesota on Trump. Not a good look.
David Tulanian
Henderson, Nevada
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Natasha Thomas, East side
The midterm elections will be held on November 3, 2026. This election will determine control of the U.S. Congress. Next year 33 Senate and all 435 House seats will be on the ballot. Everyone needs to vote like their life depends on it, because it does! Check your voter registration through the Pima County Recorder's Office at recorder.pima.gov. If it is not correct or you are not registered, you can change your registration info and register to vote at this web site. Voter registration must be completed 29 days prior to an election.
Please do this now. Don't wait. Thank you.
Natasha Thomas
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Richard Rebl, East side
Inasmuch as President Trump is trying to rewrite the actual history of January 6, I feel it is necessary to relate the actual facts as publicly and succinctly as possible. Far from being a peaceful demonstration of “patriots,” a number of demonstrators came armed with lethal weapons and other weapons as were found in the Capitol offices – flagpoles, chairs, and other heavy objects that could be used as cudgels. Officers defending the Capitol were beaten, tasered, crushed and sprayed with a variety of vile liquids. Though the police were vastly outnumbered by the “patriots” their courage allowed members of Congress to escape with their lives. Because of the many news organizations there, the entire violent insurrection was televised worldwide and many people took the liberty of recording the actual event. Whatever Mr. Trump posts, it will never reflect the savagery of the actual event and all else he cares to relate to this day will be nothing but his own warped imagination.
Richard Rebl
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Melinda Sims, Catalina
Last year after the new administration took over we were subjected to the terror of having our Federal government obliterated by DOGE. This year, they’ve decided to destroy the world. We do not own this Hemisphere. I pray wise heads put some roadblocks up against these greedy, selfish, immoral, illegal international excursions into sovereign nations. (And no, this doesn’t distract us from continuing to be concerned about our higher cost of living and all the other messes the administration wishes we wouldn’t notice before midterms!)
Melinda Sims
Catalina
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ed Waymire, Midtown
At a time when the White House is proposing a partisan version of the January 6 insurrection, all Americans, regardless of party affiliation, are well-served by the release of the bipartisan deposition of Jack Smith to Congress, in full. The deposition is 8+ hrs in length, readily accessible online, and can easily be viewed in segments as breaks in questioning occur. The video of the deposition was released by the House Judiciary Committee. It is a compelling report that most of the world witnessed in real time, and Special Prosecutor Smith was able to analyze in depth.
Ed Waymire
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Edward Beshore, North side
The authority to make war is a right reserved to Congress in Article 1 of the Constitution. Furthermore, the War Powers Act requires that "The President in every possible instance shall consult with Congress before introducing United States Armed Forces into hostilities."
Now Donald Trump said military action may be needed to take Greenland. That would, of course, be the end of the NATO alliance.
So here we are. The warning lights are blinking red.
Apologists on these pages who have blithely overlooked Trump’s multiple violations of his oath should be asking themselves “What will I do when my line is crossed?”
We must vote out the members of Congress who have enabled his crimes this year, and fully repudiate the party in power in 2028, or there may be no options left.
Slow the creep towards authoritarian rule and speak up Tucson.
Edward Beshore
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Gary Haslett, SaddleBrooke
Conservative social media is blowing up with posts about the awesome defeat of Venezuela, led by Trump's assertion that it was one of the most powerful displays of American military might in history. Come on! It is Venezuela, a third-world country the size of Texas, with a 4th-rate military. It's not like Normandy or the Battle of Midway. I would compare it to more like the Arizona men's basketball team beating Three Point Charter School. Or course, beating Three Point would not cost several million dollars. And, no, we will not make a bunch of money from their oil. And, yes, most drugs will still come in to the U.S. through ports of entry from Mexico. And, oh, where are the Epstein files? Nothing like starting a war to distract us from that problem.
Gary Haslett
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Frank Hagel, SaddleBrooke
I am asking the entire Arizona delegation to Congress to come together and introduce legislation that will contain Donald Trump's threats to Greenland, Canada, Cuba, Panama and any other countries he has a design on, without a vote of Congress. He is no better than Vladimir Putin when acting this way and threatens the security of our country and our place in the world.
This is not anyone's America, regardless of political leaning.
Frank Hagel
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Cindy Doklan, Midtown
The good Senator Mr. Mark Kelly should double down on his statement every time Hegseth threatens action: “I will repeat: This administration is pitting our uniformed military and intelligence community professionals against American citizens.
“Our laws are clear: You can refuse illegal orders. You must refuse illegal orders. No one has to carry out orders that violate the law or our Constitution.”
Every time Hegseth demotes, censures, threatens, Kelly repeats the message. Provide a help line to call if servicemen or women are unsure if the order is illegal. Our country needs Mr. Kelly's message, not Hegseth's. Do not give Hegseth's retaliation any daylight. Our Senator should spend his time serving Arizona and the country, with eyes on 2026 midterms and the end of Trump 2.0. After that Mr. Kelly will regain whatever Hegseth stole from him. And Hegseth will be remembered as he should be, a drunk with a huge fascist tattoo.
Cindy Doklan
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dan Gipple, Southeast side
I’m contemptuous of any chickenhawk president. They have the power to send women and men to do what they were too scared to do.
Junior Bush’s daddy helped secure him a hard-to-get position in the National Guard, where Bush successfully protected Texas against any potential North Vietnamese invasion. He was asked about his National Guard assignment in 1988. He audaciously replied that if we had sent the Guard, Vietnam would have turned out differently.
We all know what happened with this chickenhawk’s decision.
Cadet Bone Spur’s daddy had a podiatrist, who was one of his tenants, secure him a medical deferment.
Both presidents were too cowardly, too terrified to fight alongside those of us who did.
Trump said he “was not afraid of boots on the ground” in Venezuela. Of course not. Just like 50 years ago, these boots will not be his. Will this chickenhawk’s decision turn out as disastrously as Bush’s?
Dan Gipple
Southeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Melody Sears, North side
First: Senator Mark Kelly, accused of "seditious" remarks for messaging active-duty troops, saying "Our laws are clear. You can refuse illegal orders," is being harassed by Pete Hegseth, who himself made the equivalent statement in a 2016 speech, saying that "the military will not follow unlawful orders from their commander in chief."
Second: Trump aide Stephen Miller insists that Greenland belongs to the U.S., and that the U.S. is running Venezuela. He considers international treaties ensuring every country's right to independence and sovereignty as "international niceties," thus ignorable.
Third: Speaker of the House Mike Johnson insists that the U.S. is not engaged in military hostilities or occupations.
Four: As my mother used to say: Bullpucky.
Melody Sears
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bruce Hilpert, North side
I vividly remember learning about the January 6 insurrection. I had spent the day in the desert and heard the news that afternoon. By that time, the so-called patriots had attacked the Capitol and violently occupied the Congressional chambers. The Vice President narrowly escaped lynching in an attempt to overthrow a lawful election at the President's urging.
I naively thought that even my radical-Trumpster, lawyer brother would have to see that his idol had no respect for our government and Constitution. The Republican lawmakers feigned shock but soon fell into line behind Trump. Today, I stand in utter disbelief at the outcome of this outrageous act. I could never have imagined that a cult leader could not only control nearly half the population but also set out to destroy our representative government, all from the office of the President. Can any sane person believe that our founders intended to create a dictatorship?
Bruce Hilpert
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Morton Cederbaum, Green Valley
Today is Tuesday, January 6, a day that President Roosevelt would have called "a day that will live in infamy". This was the date that a bunch of thugs, led by Trump, attempted to overthrow the United States government. My question is, why have the media failed to run articles or programming? Are CBS, NBC and ABC that cowardly?
Morton Cederbaum
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Peter Bisschop, East side
It may be Trump makes the news because he abuses his power and ignores Congress. He is out of control. The high level of negative coverage stems from Trump's actions, which include numerous "missteps and miss-hits" and challenges to democratic norms. Challenges to democracy, to rule of law, almost always get attention. Trump is now the most powerful head of state in the world, and one of the most impulsive, rude, arrogant, ignorant, disorganized, chaotic, nihilistic, self-contradictory, childish, self-important, and self-serving. It's not about the GOP, they have already lost control of him. Free speech, free press and free elections are under attack. Civility and Integrity, are lost. Under DT caring, compassion, concern for the country are vaporizing. Is there a bias? Give the country good news and we'll start talking about it. (The attack on Venezuela even surprised Congress.) Taking over the western hemisphere is not our role.
Peter Bisschop
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Eleanor Arnold, Northeast side
It is past time for Congress to intervene to stop our power-obsessed President from further destroying our country and our standing in the world. As Mama of the Carol Burnett show would say, "He has splinters in the windmills of his mind." Only in Trump's case, I'm afraid the "splinters" are logs.
Eleanor Arnold
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dwight Swisher, South Tucson
The invasion of Venezuela, and the kidnapping of President Maduro, under made-up pretenses, is no less than international thuggery. Like the extrajudicial killing of seamen in the Gulf or the Pacific, it's lawless, and for the seamen, it's murder. This administration just abandoned the international order which has kept the peace since the end of WWII. Now we are no better than Russia (or China), invading a neighbor nation for spoils using false excuses. This crime must not be allowed to continue, and those who executed it must not go unpunished. We are a nation of laws, and we are a nation that supports international law; We have no country without both. Join me in voicing your outrage and demands for accountability. Call and write to our representatives as often as possible so they know where you stand. Silence at this moment is complicity.
Dwight Swisher
South Tucson
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Don Gerlach, East side
All countries are now justified in holding the American people responsible for having established and maintained a ruler whose modus operandi is to dominate, control and "correct" the actions of other countries, at will, no matter the illegality of that action. And to think it's being done by a country that used to be noted for espousing -- demonstrating! -- the ideals of independent sovereignty and democracy.
Don Gerlach
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Tim Helentjaris, Northwest side
In what bizarro World do Americans now believe it is moral to use our military to mount a sneak attack upon a comparatively defenseless country with the express purpose of taking “their land and oil”? Our Orange President was very open about this but did get it wrong, it’s not our oil and land, it never was. I never signed up for this, an unlimited defense budget to use in attacks against another country at the expense of our younger generation being unable to afford health care, childcare, a home to start a family, onerous education expenses. Every Republican who supports this attack (Juan Ciscomani) should and must be made to pay a price for this war. It’s time to look in a mirror at our country’s actions, to see ourselves as others around the world now see the United States, no longer a bastion of freedom, but a warmonger not satisfied with our own great wealth but determined to steal from others as well.
Tim Helentjaris
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Randy Garmon, North side
Per Congressional Representative Juan Ciscomani's Facebook page, Ciscomani is in full support of the Trump Administration's actions in Venezuela. Ciscomani votes 100% in support of the Trump Administration's agenda.
Obviously there is a percentage of voters who support both Trump and Ciscomani, and I imagine those voters are satisfied as to how their political beliefs are being met. I am not in agreement with these people.
In 10 months, the midterm elections will be held. Ciscomani's Congressional District 6 seat will be on the November General Election ballot.
The Democratic Party's front-running candidate for CD 6 is JoAnna Mendoza.
I ask that if you are not happy with Trump/Ciscomani, that you owe it to yourself (and to like-minded citizens of CD 6) to research (and support) JoAnna Mendoza.
While you are at it, please take the time to research (and support) Democratic State Legislative candidates in your District, particularly if you live in LD 17 and LD 23.
Randy Garmon
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Cindy Soffrin, Northeast side
It is obvious that this Congress has no intention of reining in the current executive branch.
It is astonishing to what ends the current executive branch will go to deflect interest in the Epstein files.
It is frightening what could happen in this world as the current executive branch throws out the rule book that was developed after WWII to foster better ways of settling disputes other than using military and economic strength to "win." All conflicts have become "zero sum."
I pray that the citizens of the world don't believe that the majority of US citizens think that operating in this manner is acceptable, though we will all suffer as a result.
Cindy Soffrin
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ke Chiang Hsieh, Midtown
When the People’s Liberation Army attacks Taiwan, it will not be liberation, since Taiwan is a democracy. Any country invading another to topple the latter’s government, dictatorial or democratic, and seize its wealth or natural resources is not liberation, but pure imperialism. Trump’s action on Venezuela is simply mimicking Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, and willfully beaconing Xi to conquer Taiwan. Trump has furthered his vision of a new world order – three imperial powers each having its own sphere of dominance. Is this making America great again? In truth, it will lower America’s world standing morally, politically, and economically: from a champion of human-rights to a greedy bully; from a leader of democratic alliances to an untrustworthy autocracy; from free trader to tariff warrior to lose its trading partners and markets. It does not take a genius to see that Trump is actively making the People’s Republic of China the new world leader. Wake up, fellow Americans.
Ke Chiang Hsieh
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Kalyanraman Bharathan, Midtown
Mr Trump says that Maduro is corrupt and has ruined Venezuela, so it's okay for the U.S. to arrest him and take over the country.
In effect he says one nation has the right to intervene in another on the grounds of its corruption.
So here is a thought: the King of England can say that given the incredible corruption and constitutional violation going on in Washington, it's his duty to arrest Mr. Trump and take over the United States.
What fun that would be. We can go right back to the years before Independence.
Kalyanraman Bharathan
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jeffrey McConnell, West side
On Jan. 1 New York City's new mayor, Zohran Mamdani was inaugurated and announced, ‘We will replace the fragility of rugged individualism with the warmth of collectivism.’
Two days later another committed socialist arrived in NYC to belatedly join in the celebrations. Ex-Venezuelan president and brutal cartel drug lord Nicolás Maduro will be enjoying the warmth of collectivism in a publicly funded detention facility courtesy of the "rugged individualism" of the United States military.
Socialism fails everywhere, always. NYC is unfortunately next.
Jeffrey McConnell
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Maureen Salz, Oro Valley
Epstein files. Invasion of Venezuela. Want to know what's really happening within the current administration? Watch the movie "Wag the Dog."
Maureen Salz
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dan Bannon, Midtown
In 2017 , President Putin stated that the nation which leads AI will be the ruler of the world.
In December 2025 Trump signed an executive order for the purpose of preventing states from enacting or enforcing their own AI regulations.
Dan Bannon
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Anne Lane, Northeast side
Continual US interventions and regime changes have never served our national interests well, generating regional resentment, economic instability and chaos.
This directly leads to increased immigration because when a country's ability to care for its own people is destroyed, the people leave for better opportunities. America, in essence, has created its own immigration problems. And now Venezuela - interesting that Trump pardoned the "cocaine kingpin" president of Honduras but arrested Maduro on the same premise. He also said he'd send troops to protect protesters in Iran while sending troops to American cities to quash protests against his administration, which does not honor the rule of law nor the Constitution. He wants to "run Venezuela" and take over its oil production when he can't even properly run his own country. You can't make this stuff up. We live in truly surreal times.
Anne Lane
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Karen Micallef, Oro Valley
One reason President Trump keeps getting away with all he does is the media does not call him out on it. Case in point: Sunday’s front page story reads: “…the U.S. leader once again demonstrated a willingness to use U.S. forces for risky missions that come with a potential big payoff.”
What should have been written is: “President Trump once again violated the U.S. Constitution by unilaterally declaring war and kidnapping the leader of another nation without consulting Congress.”
His actions were a clear impeachable offense. We can only hope Congress does something to stop him, although I won’t hold my breath.
Karen Micallef
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Philip Reinecker, East side
After destroying small boats and killing the passengers, seizing tankers loaded with oil, capturing a foreign president and his wife, Trump's minions have now opened fire on suspected ISIS terrorists in Nigeria. Keep in mind that this military invasion is illegal and without approval of the US Congress. Who knows why Trump is doing these things?
To take the spotlight off Epstein, just because he can, maybe he had a bad golfing round and decided to take it out on others. Remember that nothing is ever his fault. Whatever the reason it must be stopped. When any of the forementioned shoots back and we respond we are in an all-out war. Trumps actions are identical to Putin attacking Ukraine, exactly the same. The world is against Putin and now Trump for their illegal and reprehensible actions. Trump is proving that he is demented and, I suggest, probably insane. We must, for the sake of our country, stop him now.
Philip Reinecker
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Richard Bechtold, West side
Trump orders the kidnapping of Nicolas Maduro using the CIA and the military without Congressional notification. Trump justified the removal of Maduro because he is a narcotics trafficker and a dictator. Maduro held fake elections to stay in power. Former President Juan Hernandez a dictator from Honduras was convicted In the USA of trafficking in narcotics , and Trump pardoned him. Putin, the dictator of Russia, holds fake elections where he "wins" over 90% of the vote. Putin attacks a democratic nation and Trump cuts funding to the nation victimized by Putin. Putin suffers no consequences for being a dictator who attacks and kills non-combatant Ukrainian citizens. When do Delta Force teams of the United States military go in and capture Putin and bring him to Brooklyn for his trial? Putin has oil too.
Richard Bechtold
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Gail Kamaras, East side
Trump’s invasion of Venezuela and arrest of its president has made the U.S. more vulnerable than at any time since WWII. He has violated U.S. law and the Constitution, usurping the exclusive power of Congress to declare war. He has violated international law and the U.N. Charter, putting us in the same category as Russia by invading a smaller country.
He claimed, in contradiction of all facts, that Maduro is a narco-terrorist sending fentanyl to the U.S. while pardoning the former president of Honduras who was convicted in our courts of drug trafficking. He now claims Maduro has stolen “our” oil. Even if private oil company assets were nationalized many years ago, that does not confer the right of invasion.
It is also sickening that our U.S. Rep. Ciscomani issued a statement supporting these illegal acts. One more reason to vote him out.
Gail Kamaras
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Bruce Hilpert, North side
This morning I awoke to the shocking headline announcing the invasion of a South American country by the US military and the abduction of a “brutal dictator.” As I read more about the operation, I realized there were two brutal dictators involved. So sad that one of them is an American.
Bruce Hilpert
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Kathleen Harris, Foothills
During the last presidential election I heard Trump supporting friends say “I know, I don’t like him either, but he is anti-abortion, he will secure the border, fix the economy,” etc. So they voted for a man who was openly self-serving and cruel, a proven liar, had no respect for law or the Constitution, bragged about assaulting women, made fun of people with disabilities, berated our troops, tried to overthrow an election, blamed others for everything, and obviously had no moral values, integrity or character.
When you elect someone like that, what you get is a President who lies, has no respect for women or people different than himself, will employ illegal means to keep himself in power, will be totally self-serving and cruel, and has no integrity, moral values or character.
Perhaps voting for character first - instead of not at all - would work better.
Kathleen Harris
Foothills
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dee Maitland, Marana
Since WWII, piece by piece, world leaders over 75 years built a Jenga tower of peace and cooperation among nations with laws, treaties, organizations and contracts. All these agreements have protected us from expansive wars. For reasons of greed and retribution Trump and his enablers have been removing pieces from this tower. Their invasion and takeover of Venezuela may be the piece that makes the tower fall and causes world chaos and war. With this invasion and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine megalomaniacs now know they can take countries and their resources at will. Trump disparages our European alliances. He ignores the United Nations. He sides with Putin. He deports and destroys families of non-white people which may give a rise to future terrorists.
Might does not make right. Might makes enemies. We’ve lost our moral authority. China and Russia have deals with Venezuela. They will not take this lying down. Trump will topple the Jenga tower making Americans hated and unsafe. Be afraid. Be very afraid.
Dee Maitland
Marana
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Richard Kimball, Midtown
Jeffrey Who?
Not a single major news outlet knows.
Not a single story?
Not an update or mention, he is just gone.
Mass pedophilia over the decades made boring, just like that.
Richard Kimball
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Richard Bechtold, West side
The US never stopped and searched any of the 36 vessels (1 billion dollars' worth) destroyed and assured the crews were killed. Why would a drug cartel keep sending billions of dollars' worth of drugs in boats 36 times, knowing that the US Navy is right off the coast and can destroy every one of them with ease? Drug cartels have many ways to transport drugs. They are well funded. Why would fishing village people keep taking drug boats out into the ocean knowing that other fishermen never returned from taking out drug boats? Seems to me like a set up to substantiate the "narco-terrorist" moniker for Maduro. Trump goes into Venezuela "arresting" Maduro for drug trafficking, then sends oil companies executives to Venezuela to fix the oil industry on behalf of the Venezuelan people. Si Chuy. Wake up and follow the money. Trump's foreign policy is making money.
Richard Bechtold
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Dan Pendergrass, West side
America has had third parties in power before and the current parties have changed ideologies over time, but nothing has essentially changed except the degree of division in the country over time. The main reason is the underlying vote system is flawed. It only allows for positive choice, but often time voters have someone they despise capable of rising to power. This just increases the level of division. If voters could register both approval and disapproval with the voting system then leaders that are revered, but not despised could rise to power. I believe that the true preference point system that I’ve written about in an LTE before can solve this problem and until a party is based on “process not platform” I won’t be joining. The ranked choice system doesn't solve this problem even though it is a step in the right direction.
Dan Pendergrass
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jay Gandolfi, Northeast side
Stop wasting time condemning President Trump. He is a despicable human being and can’t change, plus he is a puppet of his handlers who script his daily rants.
We do need to question the limited actions of our federal Legislators. They have the power to challenge the atrocities in Trump Redux. Legislators MUST respond daily to each of Trump’s questionable tirades. The public is shocked at the President’s behavior but equally puzzled by the relative silence from our Legislative Branch. If our legislators are not ready to challenge the President and his puppet masters, then we must elect bolder representatives who can better rebalance the governing of this country.
Sadly, the Supreme Court is no longer a deliberative judicial unit and has become a political tool.
Finally, we must stop the media from fueling Trump’s dominance of the news. The more you cater to his addiction for attention, the more he will perform. Ignore all the diversionary spiels and he will become frantic and implode.
Jay Gandolfi
Northeast side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Richard Bechtold, West side
Trump follows Project 2025 to the letter. Two architects of this fascist doctrine are Russell Vought and Steven Miller. They are in the White House. Trump is the marionette. They tell him what policy to implement. He implements it and says it's his policy. Trump implements Project 2025 on tariffs, tax cuts, cutting government services, deporting working immigrants, military on our streets, and healthcare. When Trump feels his popularity slipping he reverses Project 2025 initiatives. Trump won't follow Project 2025 policy if it costs him attention and adoration. Trump restored funding for rural health care, lowered furniture tariffs, and removed the National Guard from Democratic cities. The sad part is that the GOP Congress allows Trump to implement Project 2025. The marionette is manipulated by Vought and Miller and the GOP Congress sits quietly enjoying the disastrous show. The only policy that is solely Trump's is naming stuff after himself.
Richard Bechtold
West side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David Berryhill, Sahuarita
If Donald was serious about drugs he would be talking about treatment for addicts. If all drugs stopped from Venezuela, it would do nothing about demand. Venezuela is all about gas and oil. We know one thing categorically about Donald, he only focuses on things that make him money. Drugs don't, but gas and oil could. Donald made the comment (and I am paraphrasing) "Venezuela stole our gas and oil rights and we want them back". Drugs are the pretext for regime change to install a government that will give Donald access to Venezuela's oil and gas reserves. On the plus side, Donald will bring illegal drug manufacturing back to America. Way to go, Donald.
David Berryhill
Sahuarita
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Philip Reinecker, East side
President Trump moaned, groaned and complained that he should have received the Nobel Peace Prize. As an aftermath he did receive the FIFA peace prize and he proudly draped it around his neck. The FIFA prize, as I'm sure you know, is almost exactly equivalent in value to the prize you get from a box of Cracker Jacks. Since that point Trump has orchestrated attacks on small boats off the coast of Valenzuela, alleging that they were carrying drugs. Since all occupants were murdered and no evidence was found they could have just as easily be transporting watermelons. Later our esteemed leader led the capture of two tankers filled with oil, thought they might have had drugs also, alas no evidence. Now he has directed strikes on ports suggesting that drugs may have been shipped from there. For the self-described peaceful Trump his actions suggest otherwise and are deplorable. Stay at home and take care of America's business.
Philip Reinecker
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Cynthia Schiesel, East side
Wishing everyone a healthy, serene, and happy 2026. Yes, this includes the misguided who follow the mean spirited little man who takes credit for the accomplishments of others; who demeans or tries to destroy those who might -- in defense of the Bill of Rights -- dare to disagree or question; who stops FEMA payments to states that are run by Democrats; who ignores the rules of law (such as due process); who attacks families suffering with the loss of loved ones; who destroys public property without permission; who is obviously enamored by a dictator whose ruthless and unwarranted attacks continue despite the simpering smile. Yeah, Happy New Year to all of you, from someone DJT describes as scum.
Cynthia Schiesel
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- William Brandt, Oro Valley
Our leaders have expressed an interest in getting rid of Maduro. The real reason seems to be to get the Venezuelan oil. If Maduro does step down, have any of them thought about what comes next? What happens if Vice President Rodriguez steps in and takes over? Will the Venezuelan military, the Cuban quasi military in Venezuela, and the drug kingpins that have been supporting Maduro now be supporting Rodriguez? Those people with money and power would probably not simply walk away with Maduro. If our leaders really want the Venezuelan oil these people would have to be rooted out. Who would do that? Would it be the U.S. military with “boots on the ground” and fighting in cities and the Venezuelan jungle? That would certainly cost many American lives. Do we really need the Venezuelan oil that badly?
William Brandt
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Beth Dingman, Green Valley
I just have one question for those who think Trump and the Republican Congress are doing such a great job: Why do you prefer having your tax dollars spent on masked ICE agents snatching people off the street; newly constructed prison camps; a 25,000-square-foot ballroom for Trump and his cronies (I’m sure you won’t be invited to the dance); billions in bailout for a right-wing Argentinian government; building up the arms race against Venezuela; when instead those dollars could be spent providing school lunches for our children; finishing construction on needed infrastructure begun under the previous administration; continuing cancer research and public health initiatives; and many other things from which we as Americans directly benefit?
Beth Dingman
Green Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Tom Van Devender, North side
Loyal Johnson's LTE characterized Biden versus Trump as ‘a sloth vs the Energizer bunny’. Its just more MAGA denigration of Joe Biden. Yes, old people have low energy moments. But Biden was a quiet, honest man who made decisions with advice from his very competent Cabinet. Trump is a publicity seeking narcissist with his own social media site and Fox News who tells his incompetent Cabinet what to say. He is easily distracted with "war games" in the Caribbean, Middle East, and Democratic cities, while Steven Miller directs the "war on immigrants" and Russell Vought implements Project 2025. Biden is a devout Catholic family man. In four years, he accomplished a great deal, especially in infrastructure. Trump is a strong family business man who wields religion as a political club. In one year, he was wreaked chaos on the country. A better characterization would be Biden as a wise elder leader and Trump as an aging, raging con artist.
Tom Van Devender
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ron Lancaster, North side
Donald Trump’s health is a high priority in this nation. Little things like discolored hands, or his pattern to forego his nighttime sleep in favor of siestas during tedious meetings are worrisome for those whose jobs are tied to his cruel inclinations.
Many others use any sign of Trump’s decline as a reason to be optimistic that the dark tunnel we live in has a termination point. The pilot light may only flicker now, but it might ignite the bonfire on Trump’s narcissism and fake veracity.
Trump has shown the way to ferret out lawless officials from the mere pretenders, who will snap back to normal once Trump has left the scene.
Gone is the naivete of the pre-Trump era, where most politicians trusted each other's motives. Now, if it slithers like a friendly snake, it may have fangs.
Ron Lancaster
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Tom Van Devender, North side
McConnell’s LTE posed four points to consider:
■ Accept or deplore Trump’s narcissistic naming frenzy. A tough one. United States of Trump could be next.
■ Cutting funds for advanced nursing degrees is going too far. Yes, but its just a ‘tree in a clearcut forest.’ Let’s not forget defunding kids lunches, public education, public media, scientific research, etc. Or diverting the money to a White House ballroom, an Argentine bailout, swatting outboard motorboats in the Caribbean, billionaire economic security, etc.
■ Release of 100% of the Epstein files. Oh no, the December 19 deadline in the law already passed with only part of the heavily redacted files released that focused on Bill Clinton and not Trump. Real transparency.
■ $2000 checks to individual taxpayers from tariff windfalls. Nice but that money came from those same taxpayers. A better boost to individual earning power and the economy would be to rescind the tariffs.
Tom Van Devender
North side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Donald Plummer, Northwest side
And away we go but not sure where.
Are we and the world going through a natural political evolution of fascism again?
If it acts like a fascist it probably is.
We should notice how Hitler, Mussolini and Trump made speeches to their countries.
Holding a hand or fist menacingly in the air and screaming.
How does fascism arise?
Declaring "National Emergency" to be able to dictate.
Suppress/control the press.
Supported by the ultra-rich.
Rules by fear via politics and law.
Control the justice system.
Control the armed units.
Align education systems to their beliefs.
Denigrate some populations.
Hitler wanted Germany for Germans, and invaded Poland for a greater Germany.
Mussolini wanted Italy for Italians, and invaded Ethiopia for the new Roman Empire.
Trump wants America for White Christian Nationalists and said, of immigrants, "They are poisoning the blood of our country" and we should have fear of "The other".
Who will Trump invade -- Greenland or Panama?
We continue to ignore history again and again.
Donald Plummer
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Lawrence E. Mazin, SaddleBrooke
As we enter 2026, the nation’s greatest dangers are no longer abstract. Climate disruption, artificial intelligence, and nuclear weapons all demand sober, competent governance. Instead, we are saddled with Donald Trump and a cadre of loyalists who treat restraint as weakness and expertise as betrayal.
Trump’s climate policy has been hollowed out to appease his donors, even as fires, floods, and extreme heat batter communities and economies. Artificial intelligence races ahead with little oversight, increasingly weaponized for surveillance, propaganda, and profit, while Trump’s allies sneer at regulation as “woke.” Nuclear risk, once constrained by diplomacy and treaties, has been inflamed by reckless rhetoric, treaty abandonment, and contempt for allies.
The gravest threat is not technology itself, but leadership that prizes loyalty over competence and impulse over foresight. Climate stress fuels instability. Instability invites authoritarianism. AI accelerates every bad decision.
This is not partisan hysteria. It is a warning. As 2026 begins, Trumpism is not merely irresponsible, it is an existential risk.
Lawrence E. Mazin
SaddleBrooke
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- John Bingham, Northwest side
Our Loyal friend has found another lie to keep him up at night. He's complaining that people see that his Hero and the black hearted felon is in terrible shape, physically and mentally. So, he complains about Biden. Sure, Joe was slower in the last few years of his presidency, who wouldn't be? He was assailed by everything the GOP could throw at him. But all of us with any kind of conscience slept well at night. We didn't wake up each morning wondering if the Liar in Chief had gotten into a twitter/X battle and took us to war while we slept. I realize there is no changing the "loyalty" of some even when the facts smack them in the face. We're all human. But remind me exactly what our current occupant of the former White House has done with the price of eggs and our economy.
John Bingham
Northwest side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Matt Somers, Midtown
The Asia Times reports that Paul Singer of Elliott Management will add to his megafortune in Venezuela now that Nicolas Maduro is gone. This past November, Singer's company bought Citgo, the U.S.-based Venezuelan oil company for $5.9 billion after Venezuela defaulted on its bond payments per a Delaware bankruptcy court. According to the story, the court's advisors estimated the value at $11-13 billion and Venezuela said it was worth $18 billion.
Judd Legum, who reported this transaction, wrote that Citgo's refineries were designed for the heavy Venezuela crude oil. Trump's oil embargo on Venezuela oil to the US had caused Citgo to buy more-expensive oil from Canada and Colombia.
Paul Singer, personally and through Elliott Investment Management, is a major donor to the Republican Party and Donald Trump. Elliott Investment Management donated two $3500 amounts to Juan Ciscomani as of June 27, 2025, per the Federal Elections Commission.
Matt Somers
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Suzanne Ferguson, Midtown
The goals the Trump administration has in Greenland can be achieved, or are already being achieved, through normal diplomacy and just recompense: build defense facilities, mine for rare minerals. Why, then, is it necessary to upend the UN charter, longtime, commonsense norms, and our allies everywhere by "invading" a sovereign nation? In doing so we encourage China to invade Taiwan, Putin to continue his depredation of Ukraine and other former Soviet territory, and the radical Zionists to take over all the Palestinian lands. Is this not madness? Where are the rational people in the current government?
Suzanne Ferguson
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Jerry Lujan, Oro Valley
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is censuring Mark Kelly because Mark reminded service members that they took an oath to support and defend the Constitution and that “you can refuse illegal orders.”. Pete first tried to have him returned to Active Duty so he could be court martialed. He failed in that so now he is censuring him. What authority does the Secretary of Defense have to censure a U.S. Senator for exercising his rights to free speech? Mark is a retired Naval Officer and not subject to the UCMJ. Pete is a former National Guard Officer and Hegseth is a civilian. How can a civilian censure a U.S. Senator? Pete should have been reminded of his marriage vows.
Jerry Lujan
Oro Valley
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Brode Meyer, Midtown
Mr. Miller has blatantly exposed his stupidity by having no clue as to the population of Greenland as he has no clue and/or respect for the sovereign rights of Greenland. He is the most obnoxious self-assuming sycophant of the Trump regime. His claim to speak for the United States is insulting and absurd. His petty sorry excuse for a wife is no better. Together they are so despised they can not live in a private residence, and instead live in house on a military base. Miller time has come and gone. He should be censured and deposed
Brode Meyer
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Ted Morrison, Midtown
We now celebrate the 5th anniversary of the most shameful day in American history. A day of infamy belongs to Pearl Harbor or it would be my first choice. The most despicable man ever to hold our highest office is back and still lying about that day, and perpetuating more shameful acts. He is violating the Constitution, killing unknown individuals on a hunch, and usurping the power of Congress.
It is my hope that he gets the same 'perp-walk' in the world court as he gave Maduro. Too bad he cannot feel the shame he has brought on our country and himself.
Ted Morrison
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- David Tulanian, Henderson, Nevada
Well, well, well. Gov. Tim Walz, the failed 2024 Democratic VP nominee can add yet another title to his quiver: Dropout in the 2026 Minnesota governor’s race.
What will Mr. Walz say when reporters ask why he chose to quit? “It was all Donald Trump’s fault.” I say this because of his habit of blaming almost every bad thing in Minnesota on Trump. Not a good look.
David Tulanian
Henderson, Nevada
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Natasha Thomas, East side
The midterm elections will be held on November 3, 2026. This election will determine control of the U.S. Congress. Next year 33 Senate and all 435 House seats will be on the ballot. Everyone needs to vote like their life depends on it, because it does! Check your voter registration through the Pima County Recorder's Office at recorder.pima.gov. If it is not correct or you are not registered, you can change your registration info and register to vote at this web site. Voter registration must be completed 29 days prior to an election.
Please do this now. Don't wait. Thank you.
Natasha Thomas
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Richard Rebl, East side
Inasmuch as President Trump is trying to rewrite the actual history of January 6, I feel it is necessary to relate the actual facts as publicly and succinctly as possible. Far from being a peaceful demonstration of “patriots,” a number of demonstrators came armed with lethal weapons and other weapons as were found in the Capitol offices – flagpoles, chairs, and other heavy objects that could be used as cudgels. Officers defending the Capitol were beaten, tasered, crushed and sprayed with a variety of vile liquids. Though the police were vastly outnumbered by the “patriots” their courage allowed members of Congress to escape with their lives. Because of the many news organizations there, the entire violent insurrection was televised worldwide and many people took the liberty of recording the actual event. Whatever Mr. Trump posts, it will never reflect the savagery of the actual event and all else he cares to relate to this day will be nothing but his own warped imagination.
Richard Rebl
East side
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
- Melinda Sims, Catalina
Last year after the new administration took over we were subjected to the terror of having our Federal government obliterated by DOGE. This year, they’ve decided to destroy the world. We do not own this Hemisphere. I pray wise heads put some roadblocks up against these greedy, selfish, immoral, illegal international excursions into sovereign nations. (And no, this doesn’t distract us from continuing to be concerned about our higher cost of living and all the other messes the administration wishes we wouldn’t notice before midterms!)
Melinda Sims
Catalina
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
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