Enemy of the people
There are some Democratic politicians who pretend to be open-minded, liberal and fighting for people’s rights but who are really Republicans, highly conservative, repressive in their politics and opposed to freedom and justice for all.
One of them is U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin from West Virginia, who continues to oppose all efforts by his Democratic colleagues to lift the filibuster rule, to reform the federal election rules and to support minority rights in this country.
He insists that only bipartisanship would be the proper path forward, naively — nay, deceptively — claiming that he is an honest dealmaker and can trust the Republican leadership in the Senate, his friends.
Kid us not — that’s a wolf in a sheep’s clothing.
On Jan. 6, a fascist mob, whipped into frenzy by former President Trump, invaded the Capitol in D.C., trying to destroy the foundations of our democracy. The Republicans in the Senate have blocked the establishment of a commission to investigate this riot, and Republicans across the country have immediately rushed into passing laws to repress open and fair elections.
Whom does Manchin (and the Arizona Democratic Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, who stayed away from the vote on the Jan. 6 commission) try to fool? Anyone who is fighting against mail-in-ballots is afraid that his/her personal economic interests might be threatened. Manchin obviously wants dark money to continue influencing our elections, and perhaps he is on the take?
When your opponent in a boxing match hits you under the belt, the umpire must intervene. Manchin just told us that illegal punching into our guts is just fine so that white supremacists can hold on to their power. This is not a Democrat, but an enemy of the people supporting Republican efforts to manipulate and destroy the election system in their own favor.
Albrecht Classen
Hilo
Opinion changed
When I first saw Henry Bianchini’s new statue in the Tribune-Herald, I thought it was a huge thing, a little scary looking, and put in the middle of the Japanese portion of the park. I was rather agreeing with those folks who did not like it at all and were posting negative comments.
When I finally went to see it, I was totally impressed. It humbled me, and I was ashamed of my earlier attitude.
The fish/man combo is so beautiful and somewhat freeing. And whoever made its stand (county workers?) did a great job, as well, and I felt it adds to the beauty and character of the statue.
The site was perfect, I am wishing and a hoping it does not get moved to the “fishing section.” What an unfortunate expense and extra work that would be. Before you move it, take a poll.
Thank you, Mr. Bianchini, for donating your art to all of us.
Wilda Collins
Hilo