RFK Jr. offers an escape from our binary system
Scranton, Pa.: Re “A guaranteed loser” (editorial, Aug. 6): Contrary to its dismissive portrayal, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. represents a refreshing and much-needed departure from the political status quo. Labeling him an opportunist misses the broader appeal and significance of his candidacy.
Kennedy’s campaign resonates with a diverse coalition of voters disillusioned by the current two-party system. His independence from both major parties allows him to address issues without the typical partisan constraints. This unrestricted approach is evident in his environmental advocacy, his commitment to restoring civil liberties and his call for transparency in government — all issues that have been sidelined by the establishment. Kennedy’s stance on health freedom and vaccine safety has been unfairly characterized as fringe. These positions reflect a growing public concern over corporate influence in public health, especially post-pandemic. He isn’t indulging in conspiracy theories, he is raising legitimate questions about the unchecked power of pharmaceutical companies and advocating for informed consent — a principle at the center of ethical medical practice.
Kennedy’s foreign policy positions offer a compelling alternative to the entrenched militarism that has dominated U.S. politics for decades. His calls for diplomacy over intervention and his critiques of endless wars resonate with a wide array of Americans who are tired of seeing their country embroiled in conflicts that drain resources and cost lives. Kennedy is not beholden to the defense industry or aggressive foreign policy advisors, giving him the freedom to pursue a more peaceful and sustainable international agenda.
The suggestion that Kennedy is simply a “sideshow” represents dismissive propaganda and ignores the depth of his platform, as well as the substantive issues he brings to the table. Jerry Solfanelli
How ’bout now?
White Plains, N.Y.: I have to laugh every time I hear Kamala Harris talking about how she is going to stop high inflation and crime when she gets elected president. Doesn’t she realize she is still in office as vice president and hasn’t done anything to stop inflation or crime? When she was a prosecutor, she helped bail out criminals. If she hasn’t done her job for about three years on these problems, why should anyone believe her now? I think they would be crazy to believe anything she claims she is going to do. Joan Cocurullo
More migrants
Bronx: We all know NYC is going to overwhelmingly vote for Harris. A question for the people of the city: What are you going to say when the next wave of 100,000 migrants arrives? Understand that this will mean, once again, the poorest parts of this city will get more shelters. The poorest people will be the first to suffer as city services will have to be cut. It will cost more than $5 billion when the next round of migrants comes. We shouldn’t hear anyone complain, as you already know what you’re voting for. How are you preparing for your community becoming more dangerous? Stephen Hill
Plan in place
Bronx: Vice President Kamala Harris attacked Donald Trump on immigration, reminding an Arizona audience that the former president pressured Senate Republicans from scrapping a bill supported by a bipartisan coalition and the ultra-conservative speaker. She must take the next move. She should promise to sign the bill if it is sent back to her desk as president, as President Biden was poised, however reluctantly, to do. Despite not having the upper hand in immigration polls versus Trump, Democrats and Harris have substantially closed the gap since becoming the Democratic nominee. A commitment to sign this bill if elected will put pressure directly on Trump to speak beyond mass deportation. Donnell B. Russell
Blue buzz
San Francisco: Not since Barack Obama ran in 2008 have we seen a candidate capture the imagination, hopes and dreams of a large portion of the country. While Grandpa Trump keeps singing the same old song, Harris and Tim Walz are projecting a positive vision for the future. The 18-34 demographic has been activated and energized like we haven’t seen in a long time. Hopefully, Democrats will not only hold the presidency, but will also hold the Senate and regain the House of Representatives. Godspeed. Jimmy Layton
Territorial greed
Providence, R.I.: Re “80 die in Israel strike” (Aug. 11): Where do prospects flourish least? / Clearly, in the Middle East / Think God gave you all the land? / Peace could hardly be at hand. Felicia Nimue Ackerman
Ally or albatross?
Highland Falls, N.Y.: Israel will just use smaller, though still American-made, bombs to hit schools and mosques sheltering Gazans already chased from their homes. And it will make sure the world knows the carnage, though too graphic for American cable TV news, was caused by American bombs, while claiming a search for “Hamas commanders” of which Hamas seems to have an infinite supply. It’s an all-win situation for Israel. They get to continue their campaign to depopulate Gaza with American help, they ensure the Arab world largely continues to hate America, and they force America to continue the supply of weapons so as not to lose its “only friend” in the Middle East. With friends like these… Joe Cyr
Dome disparity
Bronx: To Voicer Robert Kitay: Thank you for your letter regarding roofs and domes on baseball stadiums to avoid rainouts; totally spot-on and I’m glad I’m not the only one speaking on this. Along with the issue of double headers (which are not always planned and scheduled) comes the stats and standings of MLB teams, which affects them all. Two teams within a division, Team A and Team B, are tied for first place, each having scheduled games against different opponents in different locations. Team A plays its scheduled game in either clear outdoor weather or in a rooftop dome and wins their game. Meanwhile, Team B’s game is postponed due to rain and the location has no rooftop. This gives Team A sole possession of first place by default. And if that’s not serious enough, what if this was the last day of the regular season? Michael S. Wilbekin
Merit-based
Ridgewood, N.J.: We will achieve equality in America when individuals are hired or placed in positions of responsibility based on skills, ability and past performance and terminated when they fail in their positions. This is true equality — not an application based on ethnicity, gender, race, etc. Ed Houlihan
One true flag
Bronx: There is only one official flag of the U.S.A.: Old Glory, also known as the Grand Union Flag, since 1776 is the only flag that should be displayed in any government building. Take down those others, like gay stuff, LGBTQ, whatever they want to be called now, thin blue lines and “lives matter” — whatever color — and even the POW/MIA flags. Don’t weaponize the continental colors. I’m just saying as a vet! Kevin Riese
Cruel cuffing
Bronx: Tresean Gilchrist was wounded by a stray shot at a shooting in Harlem on July 13. He suffered a gunshot wound to the stomach, suffered a traumatic brain injury when he fell while trying to flee the shooting, flatlined during emergency surgery and later had a leg amputated due to an infection. After his initial surgery, it was discovered that there was an outstanding arrest warrant on him for jumping a subway turnstile. He was handcuffed and shackled to his bed, and a cop was stationed outside his room. The restraints were removed on July 16 after the arrest warrant was vacated. He remained in a coma and died recently. I get how procedure works, but was all that really necessary? Instead of doing something sensible and humane, the NYPD always manages to do something to make things worse. Small wonder why people say “defund the police.” Jonathan Solomon
Grave injustice
Newton, N.J.: I am absolutely sickened by the actions of attorney Alan Stutman and Judge Vincent Del Giudice in their handling of the Arvel Marshall murder case (“Innocent man is freed in slaying,” Aug. 10). They, along with the prosecution at the time, conspired to railroad this man into a conviction when they knew the evidence proved his innocence. Del Giudice, in particular, is guilty of criminal incompetence. He, not the city, should pay Marshall restitution. His arrogance is disgusting. Michael Schnackenberg