CUPITMUSIC

Calling for Trump protests ‘dangerous’ and met with pessimism

Re: “A common cause: What would it actually take to force Trump to resign?” June 22 commentary

Using the example of a protest in Puerto Rico (with a population less than 1% of the U.S. total), where more than 1 million people protested for days and nights, banging “pots and pans” over what they felt were “disgusting messages,” is a poor example to use when calling for millions of Americans to protest over illegal migrant rights in our country.

That aside, as a moderate independent voter, I find it disturbing that a major newspaper editor would call a sitting president “a danger to our economy, a threat to our freedoms, an ally to our enemies and a constant source of lies and misinformation.” That language, combined with the intent to incite millions of Americans to take to the streets by calling for a protest over a controversial political position (that millions of conservatives support), is dangerous given the extremely polarized politics we have today.

One may want, and even call for, a “peaceful” protest, but realistically we cannot expect millions of Donald Trump supporters, who voted him into office, to idly stand by and not counter-protest. Riots, destruction, injuries, and deaths would seem inevitable.  And, at the end of the day, does anyone really believe that a protest, such as Megan Schrader calls for, would actually convince Trump to resign?

Jim Malec, Roxborough Park

I read the article Sunday about what it might take to peacefully depose President Donald Trump. Finding a “core value” right now in the United States would be very difficult. Using Puerto Rico’s demonstrations doesn’t seen to rise to the level we need. It is a small island with nothing like the population of the mainland United States.

A small island could easily find core values and share them among one another. They are small. We are large.

Do you think book burning would do it? No, we’ve already had that. How about bodily autonomy? Nope, we had it and didn’t like it. First and Fifth Amendment rights are gone, folks. Voting rights are being erroded. How about a full-blown concentration camp? Been there, done that at Amache in Colorado during WWII. Perhaps gas chambers? What stopped the Nazis from destroying Europe? The violent intervention of the U.S. armed forces. What kept the Confederate states from forming their own country? The violent Civil War fought to keep our nation whole.

I don’t think we have any core values any longer. I’m definitely not advocating for another civil war, but I’m not sure banging drums and pans outside Mar-a-lago is going to solve our problem. Our democracy is great, but can we keep it?

Betty Green, Colorado Springs

“No King’s Day” was a representation of liberals as self-absorbed, ideological and self-deluded. Liberals who suck at the teat of a pathetic liberal mouthpiece like The Denver Post are nothing more than useful idiots to the left ideology. They’ve been indoctrinated by left-leaning schools, woke companies and liberal news outlets. Donald Trump a king? Give me a break. Trump is the only thing keeping this country from descending into a socialistic, pathetic shadow of itself.

Thank you, Jack, from Aurora, and Kay, from Denver. The military parade celebrating our armed forces was awesome, and the “No Kings” protests were pathetic.

Scott Gardner, Aurora

Just a correction: the author wrote, “a man who took office with the support of a majority of American voters…”

In fact, Trump did not win with a majority of the votes. Less than 50% of the voters marked his name on the ballot. More people voted for someone else than voted for Trump, by about 500,000 votes.

Fred Waiss, Prairie du Chien, Wis.

When both sides agree to be angry with the messenger

Re: “Readers question coverage of “No Kings” protests and Trump’s parade celebrating Army,” June 22 letters to the editor

After reading the Open Forum letters criticizing The Post for its coverage of the military parade and the “No Kings” protests, I think you should be proud of your reporting. Ticking off both sides of this issue means you’re doing something right.

Steve Titus, Boulder

Skilled reporter retains excellence, even as Rockies falter

Re: “Owner, now sober, says Rox need fresh eyes,” June 22 sports story

Patrick Saunders just anchored himself as the best sports journalist in the Rocky Mountain region with his news-breaking article and interviews with Charlie and Dick Monfort. Not only did Saunders obtain an interview with the Monforts — which no one else has done during this abysmal Rockies’ season — but he presented the information with journalistic integrity, objectivity, and honesty.

It is rather unfortunate that Saunders has been relegated to doing most of the beat coverage of the Rockies during this stretch of bad baseball, but his reporting and weekly analysis is always spot-on while never pulling punches, as it were. With no quarter to rant on with the opinion columnists, Saunders has been the one voice covering the team that is most reliable, unbiased, yet critically minded about the Rockies’ shortcomings. There is no other local or regional journalist who provides Rockies fans with insight, information, and analysis like Patrick Saunders.

While other local publications often run Associated Press coverage of Rockies games, Saunders provides fans with hometown flavor — despite often being unable to cover road games in person.

What Patrick Saunders has done with his latest piece is award-winning journalism. It represents the best of what he does amidst the troubled times of the team he covers. Kudos to Patrick Saunders. Hopefully, the dreadful baseball he covers does not prompt him to switch to another sport. Rockies fans and the Rocky Mountain Region need him on the baseball beat.

Dan Sage, Centennial

If, indeed, it is difficult to play in Denver because of the altitude, then we should win every home game. The visiting teams do not train here, nor are they used to the mile-high issues.

Shirley Schley, Denver

Colorado Republican congressional delegation all in on harming vulnerable citizens

Re: “Tax bill: Report: 6 rural hospitals in state could close,” June 22 news story

In her article, writer Meg Wingerter addressed the appalling possibility of Colorado losing six rural hospitals should the Republicans’ so-called “One Big Beautiful Bill” be approved as is by the Senate. She did an excellent job explaining how this would impact thousands of Coloradans. She did not mention that all of Colorado’s Republican congressional representatives voted “Yes” on this bill — demonstrating their willingness to rip health care from the most vulnerable and their utter disregard about the impact of doing this — oh, and add billions of dollars to the U.S. deficit along the way.

But in her article, Wingerter referred to the “left-leaning” Urban Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and their analysis of the bill’s impact. I cannot help but wonder why that descriptor was needed. Was this to suggest that they couldn’t be trusted, that their analysis was somehow “tainted?” And does that mean that The Denver Post will continue to use the description “left-leaning” and its corollary, “right-wing” in all articles? If so, why isn’t this damaging bill described as “right-wing”?

Christine Soto, Denver

When will majority of GOP admit 2020 election results?

Re: “Lindell now owes Dominion executive $2.3 million for his lies, but his con continues,” June 22 commentary

Rarely have I agreed with Krista Kafer, but it is for that reason that I am responding to her “Election lies” column in last Sunday’s Perspective section of The Denver Post.

Even today over half the Republican Party still believes the 2020 presidential election was stolen by Joe Biden. In Oklahoma they are trying to add that theory to the curriculum they are teaching their students.

Christopher Krebs, whose job, among others, was to make sure the 2020 election results were fair, actually lost his job for daring to speak up, saying the 2020 election was one of the most accurate elections in the history of our country.

Even as Donald Trump has started his second term in office, he continually says he won the 2020 election.

Mike Lindell, the “My Pillow Guy,” recently lost a defamation suit against Eric Coomer, the former security director for Dominion Voting Systems. Rather than be contrite, he doubled down on his lie.

When are the majority of Republicans going to finally acknowledge that Donald Trump lost the 2020 election and move on? Only then can this country start to heal.

The “No Kings” protests were a start. Let’s hope it is only the beginning and we truly start to believe the emperor has no clothes because he truly doesn’t.

David Shaw, Highlands Ranch

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Keep our public lands public

Re: “Public land, on and off the chopping block, needs our continued support,” June 25 commentary

I appreciate the commentary by T.A. Barron. Loss of our public lands, even in small increments, is stealing from our birthright. Furthermore, in addition to recreation, they support local economies, ranching, logging and natural resource extraction. Most of these lands will end up as either multi-million dollar homes used for a few weeks per year or as large properties the public is excluded from. Readers need to contact their congressional representatives and senators to demonstrate their opinions on this issue now. Democrats will certainly vote against this bill when it returns to the House, so constituents of Representatives Crank, Hurd, Evans and Boebert have the greatest opportunity to be effective.

York Miller, Denver

The megabill currently in the Senate includes a mandate to sell 2 million to 3 million acres of public lands, mostly in the West, that are currently managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Here is why no bill should ever include such things.

First, public lands are a matter of economic well-being. A 2024 report states that recreation on BLM lands contributes $8.8 billion to the economy in Colorado alone. Recreation in U.S. National Forests contributes $12.5 billion in GDP nationwide.

Secondly, public lands are a matter of overall human well-being. Protected natural areas benefit our civilization in more ways than we realize. For example, forests and wetlands filter water, reducing water treatment costs. These places provide habitat for creatures that pollinate our crops. Also, spending time in nature has proven physical and mental health benefits. This sell-off of public lands has human health implications.

If this goes through, it won’t just affect mountain town dwellers like me who want options for places to hike my dogs. Even if you live in a big city and would never dream of going camping, this will affect you and our country. To quote a renowned folk singer, “this land was made for you and me!”

Laurel Smerch, Mancos

Deportations during labor shortage is not logical

In The Denver Post Tuesday morning, June 24th, were two separate but  interrelated articles: “Factories having trouble filling nearly 400,000 open positions” and “Justices allow Trump to restart deportation of migrants away from their home countries.” Policies driven by logic and some compassion instead of unbending ideology and fear would benefit everyone in our country.

Robert Morales, Centennial

Help save the Trevor Project

Re: “Hotline service tailored to LGBTQ+ youths to end,” June 18 news story

As a family physician, I am concerned about the well-being of our LGBTQ+ neighbors. An executive order is terminating the Trevor Project, a suicide helpline for LGBTQ+ youth, on July 17.

The Colorado Health Institute indicates that 8.9% of Colorado adults, almost 400,000 individuals, identify as LGBTQ+. Twenty percent of Colorado youth under the age of 30 identify as LGBTQ+. This large minority of our population experiences major social stressors and disparities in access to mental health care.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, suicide is the second leading cause of death among 10 to 14-year-olds, and the third leading cause among 15 to 24-year-olds. LGBTQ+ individuals are four times more likely to attempt suicide. The Trevor Project estimates that more than 1.8 million young LGBTQ+ Americans seriously consider suicide each year, with one attempt every 45 seconds. These are sobering statistics!

The Trevor Project supported 1.3 million individuals in the past 3 years. It is unconscionable that LGBTQ+ individuals might be unable to access a critical and simple support: a lifeline to a sympathetic, understanding ear in a time of crisis. We cannot afford to lose the promise of these youth, who will be the leaders, teachers and scientists of tomorrow. We must promote their safety.

Please sign the Trevor Project’s petition to reverse the planned cuts or ask your legislators to support the Trevor Project. If you are or someone you know is considering self-harm, call or text the Suicide Lifeline at 988. Time is of the essence!

Maria Yvonne Chansky, Denver

hed here — suggested Don’t Cry Wolf Without the Facts

Re: “Tie should go to the ranchers,” June 20 letter to the editor

A recent letter suggests that if a wolf might be involved in a livestock death, the “tie should go to the rancher.” But with fewer than 30 wolves in Colorado-and tens of thousands of coyotes and over 17,000 black bears-that’s not a tie. That’s a statistical mismatch.

Colorado’s livestock compensation program already heavily favors ranchers. It pays 100% market value for confirmed wolf kills and even reimburses for “indirect losses,” like missing livestock, with just a 50.1% likelihood. That’s the most generous predator compensation program in the country.

What’s missing in this conversation is accountability. In a recent public hearing, Colorado Parks and Wildlife staff confirmed that 15 livestock losses formed the basis of a large compensation claim, but didn’t clarify how many occurred before the producer implemented basic deterrents, like burying an open carcass pit. Public records show that once deterrents were in place, losses dropped dramatically.

That’s not a coincidence. That’s science, and it’s what Proposition 114 called for when voters approved wolf reintroduction in 2020.

Instead of lowering the bar further, we should strengthen the system: require nonlethal conflict prevention as a condition of compensation, and ensure public funds support those committed to coexistence not those who invite conflict and demand a check.

Let’s be fair to ranchers, but also to Colorado’s native wildlife and the voters who supported their return.

Shane Brown, Colorado Springs

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Beware those hiding behind masks

I can remember in my younger days (I am now 83) when we used to watch “cowboy” movies. Of course, then, the bad guys always wore masks. Of course, times have changed, and until recently, if you were pulled over or had some dealings with the police, they were unmasked and would provide you with their name and even their badge number.

Times have again changed since President Donald Trump, and we again have men wearing masks and sometimes identifying who they are, but have no problem shoving their victims around. They still appear to run in gangs anywhere from three or four to a dozen or so.

Are they attacking only criminals? Some of those “criminals” appear to be international college students who have done nothing illegal, or men, women, or children who appear in court to follow procedures and do the right thing only to be grabbed, even in restrooms … or a young woman with a baby and a 2-year-old child whose husband is a veteran … or they even will grab a U.S. senator.

I have always had wide respect for our officers who serve and respect citizens. Unfortunately, this is not the case now, and we have gangsters and mobsters pretending to be for law and order.

Wayne Wathen, Centennial

Big bill is an assault on education

The U.S. Senate Finance Committee just released its proposals for changes to the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) reconciliation act. If it is possible, ignore the deficit total (if made permanent) of $4.8 trillion and consider the proposed increases in the college endowment tax, which further penalizes our top research universities, this time for the loyalty of their alumni in contributing to their endowments.

On top of this administration’s planned cuts to Pell Grants and the loss of federal research dollars for the future (and failures to pay for past work completed), with higher taxes on endowments through the OBBB, our top schools will be forced to limit even further their affordability to undergraduates (and in-state students in particular).

Please tell your senators and Congress members not to raise taxes on college endowments and to end the assault on college education.

John A. Eckstein, Denver

Lawmakers should reconsider silencer provision in big bill

Re: “Bill could loosen silencer rules,” June 24 news story

Let’s acknowledge the gun-store owning U.S. congressman from Georgia, Andrew Clyde, for dropping his fiscal opposition to Trump’s Big, Beautiful Bill, in exchange for getting a new provision that will dump 90 years of federal law outlawing gun silencers, as well as legalizing several currently banned automatic weapons, and removing a layer of background checks. Needless to say,  Republican House and Senate folks are joining in, since they need to pick up any support they can for Trump’s bill.

Just think, these silencer devices will make school shooters so much more emboldened and capable, and their kill tallies ought to soar! Criminal types will feel so much more secure, knowing that police triangulation sensors (common in cities these days, and paid for by us) won’t be triggered by those quiet gunshots! They can also feel more confident with any street gun crimes, knowing fewer witnesses will hear trouble. Reportedly, even law enforcement agencies across America oppose the reintroduction of gun silencers.

Congress, can y’all please reconsider?

Peter Ehrlich, Denver

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Now is not the time to cut tax credits for EVs

While all eyes are focused on chaos in the Middle East, the federal tax credit ($7,500) for electric vehicles is threatened and the Colorado tax credit (now $1,500 – $8,000) will be cut in half. With a price change like that, last year’s record sales will, naturally, plummet. That’s a problem.

Last summer in scenic Denver, there were 40 days when ozone levels exceeded federal standards. Often, we can’t even see the mountains. It’s also getting too hot, all the way from Denver to the high peaks. Saint Mary’s Glacier, along with a lot of other alpine snow, is melting. As a result, the high mountain forest ecosystems that depend on it are threatened.

Instead of continuing to fund tax credits, we are looking to pipelines as cheap and easy options during these tumultuous times. But crazy times actually demand wisdom and perspective. Oil prices are going up and the chaos does not seem to be subsiding. It’s time to curb our carbon production and oil dependence by getting more electric vehicles on the road. We live in Colorado with ample sources of local energy, including the nearly 40% of our electricity that already comes from wind and sun. We have sustainable and secure options.

Tell your elected officials in the state legislature you want to keep tax credits for electric vehicles at their current levels.

Shakti Io Anderson, Lakewood

‘What are the Democrats thinking?’

President Joe Biden pulled out of Afghanistan in utter chaos. Thirteen service members were killed. The loss of military equipment was extensive. It was met with a yawn by the Democrats. For years, Iran has taunted us with “Death to Americans” and full steam ahead for nuclear weapons.

In a well-coordinated plan, President Donald Trump destroyed nuclear plants in Iran and supported our only democratic ally in the Middle East. Under Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s direction, the Democrats are now calling for President Trump’s impeachment. What are the Democrats thinking?

J.D. Moyers, Centennial

Taking stock in America’s greatness

The Trump administration’s meat cleaver attacks on free trade, immigration, inclusion, education, and research are killing the goose that lays golden eggs. Donald Trump will not “Make American Great Again.” He is attacking what made this a great nation.

I will be 80 in September, and I’ve seen what made America great. We are a great country because: 1) we are diverse, comprised of people coming all parts of the world seeking a better life; 2) our aspiration to assure “liberty and justice for all,” while imperfectly realized, has distinguished our country from places where religious intolerance and political and economic oppression are rampant; 3) we have embraced free enterprise, seeking to regulate business only as needed to avoid fraud, monopoly, exploitation, and the destruction of our environment; 4) we have invested in public education to provide opportunity and strengthen our workforce and our democracy;  and 5) we have massively invested in research to learn how to improve the quality of human life.

Of course, we need to manage immigration, but these are the reasons students from all over the world want to study in our colleges and universities. Republicans and Democrats who understand what made America great need to join hands and protect what we have inherited.

Paul Lingenfelter, Denver

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Exploring the motivations to bomb Iran, both good and bad

Is it possible that our president has started a war in the Middle East so that he can “negotiate peace” and get a Nobel Prize? He’s always been so jealous of Barack Obama’s win.

Pete Names, Green Valley, Ariz.

Our bombing of sites in Iran reveals a flaw in national thinking. The world’s leaders, and most of us ordinary people, imagine that definitive actions will frighten our opponents to stop warfare.

History teaches us a different lesson.

The “They started it, we will end it” strategy is more likely to extend conflict rather than shorten it.

Peter Hulac, Denver

Re: “Four thoughts on the president’s hawkish turn on Iran,” June 19 commentary

After reading the article by Ross Douthat, I had to read it again. I immediately thought I must have missed a portion of his thoughts. He failed to mention that Iran was within months, if not weeks, of acquiring nuclear capabilities. Iran has announced numerous times in the past 50 years that it intends to wipe Israel off the face of the earth. Iran has attacked American assets and troops numerous times. In 1979, Iran took 66 Americans, including diplomats and other civilian personnel, hostage at the Embassy of the United States in Tehran without justification. Iran has been at war with America for the past 50 years. Frequently, Iran has announced to the world, “death to America.”

If Iran acquires a nuclear bomb with their current intercontinental ballistic missile capability, then Douthat had better include thoughts on New York also. Iran’s proxies have been attacking merchant vessels for years with no justification. They will surely keep their word on the destruction of both Israel and America if they have the opportunity. It appears to me that Douthat desires to give them that opportunity.

Ernie Cline, Great Falls, Montana

Transgender care: Supreme Court on the wrong side of history

Re: “Supreme court: Tenn. ban on gender-affirming care upheld,” June 18 news story

Denying medical care for transgender minors will have real impacts on real people. The SCOTUS decision on the case involving the Tennessee ban makes me wonder what the basis for the decision was.

Clearly, it was not based on the Constitution or on science. I believe that religious beliefs are driving many SCOTUS decisions, and that’s a direct violation of the First Amendment separation clause. I’m sure that right-wing Christians wish that clause wasn’t there, but the fact is that it is there. And the Founding Fathers put it there for a very good reason: They were well aware of the religious tyranny that had been experienced in other countries (e.g., England, Spain). Religious freedom means just that: The freedom to believe what you want to believe and the prohibition of a nationally established religion.

This is very personal for me. My extended family has several members of the LGBTQ community, including transgender members. Trust me when I tell you that these people aren’t making “lifestyle” choices. They are being who they are. The science is clear, and it contradicts right-wing religious beliefs. The Human Genome research clearly shows that gender is on a spectrum. Just as humans differ with respect to eye color, skin color, etc., they differ with respect to gender. Gender dysphoria is a real thing.

Making the transition from birth-defined gender to one’s real gender is terribly difficult for the person and their family.

Denying care to minor children will inevitably result in suicides. The Trump administration has singled these people out for persecution because of pressure from right-wing religious people. The justices should be ashamed of themselves for ignoring the Constitution and science.

James W. Craft, Broomfield

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Tie should go to the ranchers

The expression says the tie goes to the runner in baseball.

Well, that should be true for Colorado ranchers.

A recent investigation into a calf killing (depredation) revealed wolf tracks near the carcass, but there were also bear and coyote tracks present (everybody loves a free meal). The investigation into the killing was deemed “inconclusive.”

Consequently, the rancher could not file for financial compensation.

This is so wrong. The rule needs to be changed regarding these situations. Give the tie to the ranchers.

Gary Pax, Carbondale

A new definition of MAGA

Re: “Trump has cut science funding to its lowest level in decades,” June 15 news story

In Sunday’s Denver Post, I read about the drastic and draconian cuts the president has ordered. These slashes to STEM, health and science, along with others, will have severe repercussions here and globally.

For decades the United States has been a leader in the industrial world, according to most indices (infant mortality and racial disparities in educational outcomes being two exceptions).

Perhaps we should consider renaming the slogan to Marginalizing America’s Greatness Anon.

Leslie Beltrami, Denver

Lessons from Lewinsky

Re: “Monica Lewinsky has helped guide my career as CSU president,” June 15 commentary

I read Amy L. Parsons’ commentary with interest and some dismay. In it, I learned that a woman who was Monica Lewinsky’s peer has looked back on the Clinton/Lewinsky scandal and, due to maturation and acquired knowledge, is now seeing through more mature eyes. Those new eyes are helping her be a better administrator.

While the author says she blindly defended former President Bill Clinton in her previous life, she now supports Lewinsky, who has gone from victim to victor. Lewinsky now gives lessons on how to take care of yourself by speaking up early, that “power dynamics always matter,” and  “lead with empathy before judgment” and to “protect people’s humanity.” She apparently has grown, and I say, “Good for her.” Those are beautiful goals, and the next one should be “be responsible!”

Public life is hard on women. We make life for women better by working toward the truth and sharing the burden responsibly. We are in an age where we are told that things we saw with our own eyes are not true. We are told that a felon is “blessed,” and that’s why he is currently serving as president. We have lots of opportunities to question and to learn. But we must keep reality as our base.

Lewinsky says, “Any abuse of power, even consensual, is wrong.” While this is a great thought, I would add that when two consenting adults decide to have sex, that is a choice. If you make the choice, you must know there are consequences. Along with helping kids by using Lewinsky’s guide, I would hope that Parsons helps them understand that their choices have consequences.

Carol O’Brien, Lakewood

Troops casual look in parade was good to see

There have been complaints about the troops in the recent D.C. parade being lackadaisical, not in lockstep and not appearing as an imposing threat. Good. I think it showed them as human beings, neighbors, friends, mothers and fathers. This is what the army of a peaceful democracy should look like. I hope we can keep it.

Gary Bagstad, Denver

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Reader’s question coverage of “No Kings” protests and Trump’s parade celebrating Army

Re: “Thousands join anti-Trump protests across Colorado,” June 15 news story

“No Kings Day” was a valuable expression of our fears and anger, but “The King” just does not care. He knows he is untouchable. The only way to control him is through the “jokers” in the Republican Party by threatening them with losing Congress in the next election. Gerrymandering may protect most of them, but they are where our pressure should focus. Convince some of them that their support of “The King” will brand them as members of the greatest failures in U.S. Congress’ history. “No Jokers!”

PHOTOS: ‘No Kings’ protest in Denver draws thousands

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Ira Baline, Englewood

I was eagerly awaiting my paper last Sunday morning, thinking that the “No Kings” march that brought thousands to Denver and other Colorado cities would be front page, front and center.

You relegated this huge and important event to page one of the “Denver and the West” section and chose “8 hours on 16th Street” for the front page. Really? These two articles should have been switched. Our thousands of participants added to the 5 million protesters across the country, which is much bigger news.

Gail Marcus, Denver

I am seeing estimates of 5 million people in the United States participating in the so-called “No Kings” spectacle. The 2024 population of the U.S. was about 340 million. Maybe 2% of U.S. citizens saw this get-together as meaningful. The liberal press would like us to think the spectacle was a really important event. In reality, without the fawning press coverage,  no one would know the thing even happened.

Jack Inderwish, Aurora

To assert that people were “protesting Trump’s policies” was an insult to the protesters — that we just disagree his policies and not the man himself. The “Eff Trump” signs I saw, were directed at the man. What policy do you think “No Kings” is aimed at, if not Trump? It’s so sad to see how you journalists — those employed at the major networks, newspapers and The Associated Press — have bowed down to Trump.

You people don’t even bother to fact-check the man anymore. You just print his lies without so much as a correction. During the campaign, you at least would point out they were “factually incorrect, inaccurate, misleading, etc” — trying to use every euphemism for the word lie, without using the word itself. You don’t even do that anymore. America is suffering as a result.

When the book of how America fell into a fascist dictatorship is written, there is going to be an entire chapter devoted to how you “journalists” failed the country. With your commitment to false equivalencies and “both sides-ism.” Acting as if Democrats were just as bad as Republicans. The threat of a Trump presidency to our democracy should have overruled anything you learned in journalism school. Accusations of bias should have been disregarded. Telling the American people Trump was a fascist dictator in waiting should have been your only concern.

Still, to this day, you journalists are failing us. Even more now that you have bent the knee to Trump. You should all be ashamed.

Alvin Miller, Greeley

Re: “Military parade barrels through capital with tanks,” June 15 news story

I’m ashamed of The Denver Post and the whole lot of media. A huge headline, “Thousands join anti-Trump protests…” appears on Page B1 and then on page 14 of the main section “Military parade barrels through capitol with tanks” appears on page 14 with disparaging remarks about the parade and Trump throughout. You might as well have called this article “Thousands of anti-Trump protests appeared nationwide, overshadowing a little-recognized and acknowledged parade for patriotic, brave Americans, our army and our nation.”

Can’t you journalists, for one day, honor the Army, our government, and our nation? Hammering Trump and his successes is not going to score points for you or the Democrat party. You lost and should have egg on your faces — so get over it. Be fair for once in your lives. Just report the news factually and fairly and celebrate our military. Can you not be patriotic grateful Americans – even for one day? Guess not.

Kay Robbins, Denver

Stranded downtown with unreliable information from RTD

I think I have recovered to the point I can write a reasonably polite email. I was extremely disappointed by the decision to close Union Station on Saturday afternoon, June 14.

I took the Flatirons Flyer from Boulder to Union Station at 11 a.m. and then at about 4:30 p.m. I wanted to return to Boulder.

I was told by Denver Police that Union Station was closed. I was told by an RTD security officer that Union Station was closed until some unknown time later that evening and another RTD security officer said it was closed for the day. I was never given a reason.

The RTD app told me that there was no itinerary available to get to Boulder from Union Station, even if I opted to walk up to 3 miles and wait up to an hour for a connection. I told the app that I was at Coors Field (a lie) and the app told me to walk to 38th and Blake to get a bus to the airport where I could catch a bus to Boulder.

I’m 73 years old and had been out in the sun all afternoon, certainly dehydrated and maybe a little heat-stroked.

I walked about 10 blocks and then the app started giving me crazy directions. It took me a few minutes and the help from a passerby to figure out that the app was trying to tell me to turn around and return to Union Station. I did and I got home at about 7 p.m., exhausted.

This is absolutely unacceptable, both for shutting down an essential service and for the blackout of information.

Please fire whoever made this terrible decision.

Paul Culnan, Boulder

Casting positive light on 16th Street

Re: “8 hours on 16th Street,” June 15 news story

While it’s interesting to read the stories about people I see now and again in my neighborhood on 16th Street, I am concerned that this article may reinforce many people’s fears and discourage people from coming to enjoy the area. I don’t think Denver is much different in terms of safety from any larger city and perhaps better than some. Why not also talk to people who live and work around 16th to hear what they think?

Grace Walsh, Denver

What a clear-eyed, compassionate, well-researched and well-written article on 8 hours on 16th Street. The best piece on the topic that I have seen. Kudos to Shelly Bradbury!

Dianne Clark, Littleton

I am deeply disappointed by the editorial choices made in this piece and feel compelled to speak out.

The article offers a narrow, fear-focused portrayal of our city center–ignoring the broader, more accurate picture of what’s happening downtown. It fails to acknowledge the new name of the district, an important and symbolic step toward revitalization. More troubling, the piece paints a one-sided image of the 16th Street Mall by centering on isolated incidents rather than the overwhelming number of people who safely enjoy the area every day.

I live in downtown Denver. I see a beautiful, vibrant district full of life. The pedestrian-friendly walkway lined with trees, lively outdoor patios, family-friendly play areas, Skyline Park, and thriving businesses like those in Larimer Square all tell a story of a city on the rise — not in retreat. There are real improvements happening, and they deserve recognition.

Why would The Denver Post, a paper that should be a proud steward of our city’s image, choose to amplify fear rather than reflect the progress? This article not only discourages locals from enjoying our urban spaces, but sends a damaging message to potential visitors and businesses who rely on media to understand the reality on the ground.

I love this city. I believe in downtown. And I’m outraged by the choice to portray Denver in such a negative light when there is so much more to celebrate.

Janet Robinson, Denver

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Gutting of vaccine panel is tragic, political mistake

Re: “RFK Jr. ousts entire vaccine advisory committee,” June 10 news story

Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert Kennedy Jr.’s decision to fire all the experts on the ACIP (Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices) will be a tragic, political mistake. They are excellent, ethical scientists.

Our data has shown that every time a new approved vaccine has been introduced into Colorado, the incidence of severe infectious diseases affecting our children has dramatically decreased. The current measles outbreak in the U.S. is a clear example of the lack of adequate measles vaccination.

Any effort to replace true experts who rely on randomized double-blind clinical trials with other members who may have political or conspiracy bias is a disaster waiting to happen. Instead, parents should rely on vaccinating their children based on the recommendations of the Colorado Board of Health, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and their child’s physician. Vaccines are considered one of the most effective public health accomplishments of the 20th and 21st centuries. We should continue to go forward, not backwards.

James Todd, Denver

Editor’s note: Todd is a retired infectious diseases pediatrician.

Iran seeking admission into nuclear weapon club

Every time another country pursues a nuclear weapon, the United States and other members of the nuclear club are alarmed. But when that country finally gets the bomb, the others begrudgingly accept it into the club. And indeed, nuclear weapons are much better at deterring nuclear attacks by others than for actually using offensively.

Iran is most likely no different. Any country in its circumstances would be sorely pressed to acquire the ultimate deterrent.

No matter what any of us may think of the Iranian government, Iran is balancing against Israel chiefly but also against the United States. The international system, the product of independent states pursuing their own security, abhors an imbalance. Unbalanced power does not restrain itself. In the Middle East, Israel is the unbalanced power. In time, some state or combination of states will rise to restore a balance.

In the last two years, Israeli leaders have scoffed at American concerns and American laws regarding the civilian toll of its wars. Now, Israel wants to drag us into its ill-considered war against Iran. We would be foolish to comply.

If you agree that we must not jump into this war, please email your Senators and House Representatives. And write to President Trump as well, at whitehouse.gov/contact/.

Todd Buchanan, Eldora

DougCo’s Home Rule election funded by special interests

Douglas County’s Home Rule effort is secretive, rushed and for special interests. In March, Douglas County commissioners spent 90 seconds placing a $500K special election ballot measure in a summer off-year election. This guaranteed a low turnout and minimum citizen engagement for the most important decision a county can make.

Home Rule became even shadier by advocates advancing false claims regarding how it could exempt a county from state laws, from firearm laws to the state minimum wage. The misrepresentations by pro-Home Rule advocates became so acute that the Douglas County Sheriff spoke out against these misrepresentations in a public forum, and the Fraternal Order of Police now opposes Home Rule.

So why the rush, secrecy and mendacity? Follow the money. And what that trail shows is the pro-Home Rule campaign had just five donors contribute more than $110K; three developer/business entities from outside Douglas County, and the spouses of a developer/commissioner. And this does not include the large amounts of untraceable dark money from a “nonprofit” that has been spending to support the Home Rule campaign. Meanwhile, reports show the Home Rule opposition supported by hundreds of scrappy citizens who live in Douglas County, donating $34K.

Which campaign is for special interests and which is by and for the people?

Bob Marshall, Highlands Ranch

Editor’s note: Marshall is a Colorado state Representative for House District 43.

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We are thrilled by rumors that the Broncos’ new owners are acquiring land to keep the football team in the heart of Denver, right where it belongs.

A brand new, privately financed stadium on currently contaminated and abandoned land, Burnham Yard, is a vision we can get behind. The 58-acre rail yard is now owned by the Colorado Department of Transportation.

The Denver Post reported last week – following some brilliant reporting from BusinessDen – that part of the deal the Walton-Penner group is looking to make in addition to acquiring the state’s land would include buying a portion of Denver Water’s 36-acre campus where the headquarters and operations center are located.

We’re not opposed to the Walton-Penner Family Ownership Group buying some land from Denver Water to help the group spend billions building a stadium and a privately owned entertainment district. But it only seems logical that Denver Water would need to be compensated for the trouble of moving from this historic 150-year-old campus that recently underwent an entire rebuild to become a world-class facility.

“We recognize the impact this development could have to the largest community we serve,” Denver Water CEO and manager Alan Salazar said in an interview requested following The Post’s report. “Creative minds can think about ways that this could work. We’re trying to get there.”

Salazar said some things are not negotiable: The deal cannot devalue Denver Water and must protect the financial security of the enterprise. The deal can’t cause any upward pressure on water rates, and Salazar simply pointed out that the charter of the voter-created utility prevents money from being spent on anything that isn’t a waterworks project.

We say that Denver Water can in no way be asked to help subsidize this private development. Any private company would hold out for a substantial payout before ripping up its roots to relocate, and a good CEO would always be ready to walk away from negotiations if it wasn’t in their best interests.

That doesn’t mean the deal is dead, but it certainly complicates negotiations.

It’s unclear whether the Broncos need the land or whether they could build the stadium on the old rail yard and make a smaller entertainment district and still make the kind of return on investment they are aiming for.

Today, the Denver Water campus includes a brand-new headquarters on the far north side of the campus where white-collar employees, including engineers, human resources, and communications employees, work. We can’t imagine the Broncos would want that building.

But most of the land — and likely the land we imagine could be sold — is occupied by a number of high-tech service buildings, warehouses, and parking lots designed with efficiency and productivity in mind. Those buildings are only a few years old, and touring the campus makes it clear that Denver Water spared no expense to make this property its home forever. A brick pathway through the campus is marked with the names of every retiree from the company, with their dates of service.

This is the campus where hundreds of Denver Water employees start their day before dispersing out to a service area that stretches from Denver International Airport to Ken Caryl. Workers help supply clean drinking water from mountain reservoirs to some of the state’s largest municipalities, and the machine shop services everything from snowmobiles to dump trucks.

Moving those operations is not something that should be taken lightly.

As we’ve said before, we are not opposed to the Walton-Penner group getting some level of subsidy from the state of Colorado and the city of Denver, but that deal must be entirely transparent and account for every dollar given to these heirs of the Walmart fortune, Rob Walton and his son-in-law Greg Penner.

Before any deal is inked behind closed doors, the public needs to be told the modern-day market value of Burnham Yard and the value of Denver Water’s property with a true appraisal conducted by an independent firm.

And while it makes sense for the city of Denver and the state to incentivize the business prospects of the football stadium, we cannot see any possible justification for Denver Water to share in that burden.

Denver Water, much like the Broncos, is a storied institution.

We now know, thanks to Penner’s decision not to renew the lease at the existing Mile High Stadium (Empower Field), that the half-life of a new stadium is only about 4.5 years. In sharp contrast, Denver Water will be providing life-sustaining water to much of metro Denver for almost a million people into the foreseeable future, perhaps for as long as there are people on the Front Range.

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