Beyond Horns and Slogans – Dialogue Matters
I appreciate Mr. Willis’s thoughtful response to my Sept. 11 letter, and I welcome the continuing conversation. That, in itself, is evidence that letters to the editor — not horns, waves, or hand gestures — are where genuine civic dialogue can flourish.
A vigil with no direct ties to an election and a one-sided focus against our current President — politically, personally, and against his administration’s policies — is confusing and divisive. If the goal is to strengthen civic life, it ought to encourage broader engagement rather than narrowing the message to opposition alone.
Some say these vigils are about keeping democracy strong. Yet if the real goal is to influence a presidential election still three years away, as Mr. Willis suggests, that seems premature. Most people are weary of constant campaigning and would prefer to focus on the issues affecting their lives right now.
If not 2028, then perhaps my earlier concern is more realistic — that these vigils are about keeping Democrats energized for the 2026 midterms, with the possibility of another impeachment effort once again looming. That may be exciting for the deeply partisan, but I don’t think most Americans want to listen to the endless and contentious debate of another impeachment proceeding.
I write not to end this debate, but to invite more of it. When folks have to put their feelings into writing and add their names, the rhetoric is automatically toned down and more constructive. Opinion letters reach a wide audience, offering opportunities to better understand exactly what others’ concerns are in a bit more detail beyond slogans. We are fortunate the Ledger-Transcript offers this opportunity to our community.