All residents of 757 are fortunate to live near the water, especially the Atlantic Ocean and the beautiful Chesapeake Bay. My wife and I, and our neighbors, are particularly grateful for living at the bayfront and having the daily experiences of watching diving osprey and pelicans, dolphins and people enjoying all kinds of water sports.

Residents and tourists alike are attracted to the beach for those same reasons plus the sunbathing, fishing, crabbing, beach games, cookouts and beverages.

On Sept. 10, a good-sized crowd of 30 or so young people spent the day with three big tents and cookout equipment, and did lots of beach games and swimming. They all appeared to be having a good, well-behaved time. Most of them spent the entire day, late morning to early evening, laughing with some pleasant music and general good behavior.

The next morning was a real shock. The beach was littered with beer cans, debris, garbage and even a table littered with more trash.

Seriously. These folks did not seem underprivileged, ignorant nor oblivious to the beauty of the bay. Why by any stretch of imagination would these young people desecrate a thing of beauty enjoyed for free? They know better, and their behavior is inexcusable. It’s sad they have no respect for something that most of the rest of our country envies.

John Baggio, Virginia Beach

Security

Re “Classified documents” (Your Views, Sept. 15): I am responding to questions in the letter asking what would happen to federal workers who handled classified documents poorly. When I was a GS-4 clerk working at Fort Monroe during the Vietnam War, our office received many classified documents for which I was responsible. I had to sign for each one and track every movement a document took when out of the secure file cabinet. Had I failed to account for any one of those documents at the end of the day or even left one unattended on my desk, I could have lost my security clearance and therefore my job.

Though among the lowest-graded civilian employees, I understood my responsibility completely and complied to the letter. That the highest-ranking civilian in the country could act so cavalierly about our national security is appalling. That he might end up back in the White House and once more in possession of national secrets is terrifying.

Bonnie Kashouty Nealon, Toano

Orange wimp

The debate Sept. 10 between Vice President Kamala Harris and the orange felon was an epic beatdown. If it had been a prizefight, the referee would have stopped it and former President Donald Trump would have been administered smelling salts.

Now the cowardly Trump indicates that he will not debate Harris again. If Trump refuses to debate again, Harris needs to publicly call him out for being a chicken because he is afraid to get beaten by a woman again. Don King would be ashamed. How can the “cowardly lyin'” be expected to stand up to Russian President Vladimir Putin if he is afraid to get beaten up by a woman?

Christina Anne Knight, Newport News

JD Vance

I’m sure Ohio Sen. JD Vance didn’t realize when he made his “single cat ladies” comments he would tick off one of the most popular women in the world. However, someone in former President Donald Trump’s campaign should have known that Trump re-sharing artificial intelligence-generated pictures that falsely showed Taylor Swift endorsing Trump, would lead her to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris.

There will be 8.3 million Generation Z youth who will have become eligible to vote in 2024, according to circle.tufts.edu. In one day, many of them registered to vote. Thank Vance.

Joseph Ketron, Williamsburg

Re “Representation” (Your Views, Aug. 16): The letter proposed a disingenuous analysis of Congressman Rob Wittman’s voting record by stringing together select fractions of various omnibus bills while disregarding the many positive contributions he has made throughout our community.

Consider the great opportunities our region offers to those who possess various trade skills. Wittman recognizes the importance of making these skills available to citizens of all demographic and economic backgrounds. I was proud to see Wittman’s work on the 529 education savings accounts. Wittman’s Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act expands the use of 529 plans to cover post-secondary training and credentialing programs. This bill is a game-changer for families in our district, making higher education and vocational training more accessible and affordable. To suggest Wittman works only for the wealthy is to ignore his efforts to provide better educational opportunities for all our children and grandchildren.

The letter also blatantly ignores Wittman’s commitment to veterans’ issues despite the fact that he is among the most pro-veteran members of Congress. His staunch support for the Veterans Choice Program, which ensures timely and quality care for our veterans, and voting for the final version of the Protecting Our Gold Star Families Education Act demonstrates his dedication to those who have served our country.

Wittman’s role on the House Armed Services Committee allows him to have a say in national priorities while addressing local needs. His efforts to strengthen our national defense and support military families have far-reaching benefits, including at home. His record is filled with achievements that directly benefit every facet of our community.

Michael B. Watson, former Virginia House of Delegates member, Virginia Manufacturing Development Commission member, Gloucester

Shootings

We are beating our heads against the brick wall thinking Congress will act upon shootings. To date — January to September — at least 139 incidents of gunfire on school grounds have occurred, according to Everytown.

As more families have to learn to deal with their shattered lives, their “new normal,” we shake our heads and experience a type of tragedy paralysis. We as citizens cannot pass laws, impose restrictions and do much to stop the possession of assault weapons.

Congress needs to face the reality that people outside of law enforcement and the military do not need assault weapons nor equipment that can turn a rifle into a fast deliverer of bullets.

All we can do is appeal through our elected officials to vote more strongly for gun control. Notice I did not say gun abolishment. Gun control, gun regulations and gun registration must come into effect.

Congress needs to know in any and all ways possible that the laws are in the hands and in the moral conscience of each elected official. The shattered families deserve no less.

Sharon M. Haring, Virginia Beach

Agreed

Re “Rename it” (Your Views, Sept. 11): The letter writer said we should change the name of the USS John C. Stennis to the USS Ben Franklin. I agree. We had a ship named in honor of Benjamin Franklin, the USS Bonhomme Richard. It’s time to honor this Founding Father again. He was a true genius and a very great man.

Barry Pollara, former chairman, WHRO Board of Directors, Norfolk

Justice?

Project 2025 has been called “a far-right roadmap for Donald Trump to seize ‘supreme’ powers and radically undermine reproductive rights, LGBTQ equality, racial justice, free speech, and other democratic institutions and freedoms,” according to Rep. Jared Huffman’s press release on his task force to stop Project 2025.

As for abortion, Project 2025 calls for restricting the procedure through placing limits on mail-order pills. Other health care and social services like Medicare and Social Security would be scaled back and or privatized.

Trump has claimed he wants nothing to do with Project 2025, which strains credulity. He habitually says things that prove untrue. In this case, many, if not most, of the authors of this 900-page document worked under Trump during his office term.

Existentially, the most consequential of these horrors is a decision to reduce the efforts to limit climate change and to increase production of fossil fuels, both of which would be a huge blow to humanity and to all of life on Earth as well.

The Department of Justice would be put under the president’s control. Then Justice as we know it would cease to exist because Trump had earlier announced his plans to staff much of his government using the criterion of absolute loyalty to himself, rather than to the Constitution. Therefore, any “justice” meted out by his Justice Department would have to align with Trump’s capricious and grossly suspicious “standards.”

Stan Pearson, Newport News

Vision

Dwight D. Eisenhower’s term as the 34th president ended with great hope for the United States but also with keen awareness of his term’s role in history. In his farewell address in 1961, he remarked, “America knows that this world of ours … must avoid becoming a community of dreadful fear and hate, and be, instead, a proud confederation of mutual trust and respect.”

As we approach the election, it’s important to choose the candidates who will take us down that path.

Marc Katz, Norfolk

If we elect former President Donald Trump, a want-to-be dictator, the country will experience a damaging constitutional crisis that would change our democracy for years. Based on what he says, he intends to disregard the U.S. Constitution, holding absolute power over the country by advocating the same or similar practices of the autocratic leaders he so admires.

The country needs to realize that in his first term he possessed a sophomoric understanding of how to run the country. That is no longer the case. He has a game plan; it’s called Project 2025, constructed by The Heritage Foundation. Some of its major objectives include consolidating presidential power; rolling back reproductive rights; rolling back LGBTQ+ rights; restricting U.S. immigration and escalating customs enforcement; and expanding attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

He will likely try to fire thousands of civil service employees, appointing loyalists to gain absolute control over the legislative branch and subvert the powers of the Department of Justice.

Every Democrat, independent and Republican against Trump, must get out to vote for the Vice President Kamala Harris-Gov. Tim Walz ticket. If Trump loses by big numbers, the MAGA cult should take a big hit. It’s crisis time; our freedoms are at stake. No one can sit out this election.

Please remember Trump is a convicted felon, has been found liable for sexual abuse and is awaiting at least two more criminal trials. He lies often, and I believe he cares only about himself and the wealthy.

America, it’s about character and trust.

David N. Camaione, Virginia Beach

Tim Kaine

While reading a 2023 news article where Sen. Tim Kaine said he was “grappling” over deciding about running for a third term as a U.S. senator “representing” Virginia, I was thinking, please let me help save you from grappling.

He has had his snout in the public trough for 30 years, and I can’t recall anything he has accomplished that has made anyone’s life better during those 30 years.

If you look at the state of our economy, the border and inflation, you have to blame him, at least in part, for these problems.

Kaine, take a break from your grappling and give someone an opportunity to hopefully not vote along party lines and improve our lot in life.

Dick Jones, Virginia Beach

No Trump

After watching the debate Tuesday night, it became clear to me, and I hope to my fellow Americans, that one candidate, Vice President Kamala Harris, deals in facts, truth and reality. In short, she is sane and capable of being our commander in chief. Former President Donald Trump on the other hand gives us lies, conspiracy theories and incoherence. I don’t want him anywhere near the nuclear codes.

Frank Harrell, Virginia Beach

Military

Just what does “thank you for your service” mean? I hear it all the time when I show my indefinite retired ID card. “My pleasure, do it again if I could.” But why are they saying, “thank you for your service”? Do they really mean it?

Surely, No. 45 wouldn’t say something like that while he’s desecrating Arlington National Cemetery for a political photo opportunity.

I was at a restaurant in Virginia Beach; I’ve been there numerous times. I previously got the military discount; now I’m told they don’t do that anymore.

So please don’t say it unless you personally served, or you’re a spouse who’s husband or wife served, or you’re the son or daughter of a service member.

Robert J. Horst, retired Army/Navy, Virginia Beach

“White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby was met with intense criticism Wednesday after he inadvertently emailed a reporter that there is ‘no use in responding’ to veteran concerns about the Harris-Biden administration’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan,” reported the New York Post.

“‘Obviously no use in responding. A “handful” of vets indeed and all of one stripe,’ read Kirby’s email,” according to Fox News.

Retired U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Kirby has spent too much time in the political sewers of Washington. He has lost whatever regard he had for those in the military and their families. His response was arrogant, and I will view whatever public opinions or statements he might make in the future with deep skepticism.

Notwithstanding any previous expressions of regret, we now know how the White House truly feels about the botched withdrawal and the loss of 13 military service members, specifically, politics trump honesty and empathy.

John Horan, Virginia Beach

Test them

After watching the debate Tuesday and how unhinged the former president was, I really think the American people should demand that he take a cognitive/competency test by a legitimate psychiatrist. To be fair, have them both take one. I have no doubt that Vice President Kamala Harris would pass with flying colors. If we are electing a person to the highest office, we should have proof that he or she is up to the challenge.

Shauna Keller, Norfolk

Be like Hungary?

Former President Donald Trump admires Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and the authoritarian way he runs Hungary. Do you suppose Trump even knows that tiny Hungary’s total population is only about the same size as that of Los Angeles County, California?

And it’s a country with commensurately small accomplishments, responsibilities and effect on world affairs, other than keeping nearby Russian happy. So Hungary is a model we should copy for our great country? I think not.

James Palmer, Williamsburg

Debate

How in the world do you debate insanity? Following the President Joe Biden versus former President Donald Trump debate, leaders of the Democratic Party made an incredible and unprecedented decision. They concluded Biden would not be up to the job of being president for another term. Leaders of the Trump Party (it is no longer the Republican Party) need to seriously reassess the capabilities of their candidate. If they honestly believe that unhinged, rambling, anxious man could be president again, they did not watch Tuesday’s debate.

Steve Alcorn, Virginia Beach

Free trade

A recent New York Times article titled, “For (Donald) Trump, tariffs are the solution to almost any problem,” has a subhead that reads, “The former president has proposed using tariffs to fund child care, boost manufacturing, quell immigration and encourage use of the dollar. Economists are skeptical.”

“Chris Wallace, host of ‘Fox News Sunday,’ asked him (Larry Kudlow), ‘It’s U.S. businesses and U.S. consumers who pay, correct?'” according to a 2019 Associated Press article published by the Chicago Tribune. Kudlow, then-head of Trump’s National Economic Council, said, “Yes, I don’t disagree with that.”

The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Bill of 1930, some scholars believe, was partly responsible for the severity of the subsequent Great Depression.

Peter Cimmino, Virginia Beach

Classified documents

A brief quiz for readers who have ever held a federal security clearance:

1. If you had ever taken home classified documents, where would you be today?
2. If you or your employees had stored those documents in a space accessible to the public, where would you be today?
3. If a government agency asked you to return the documents, but you declined, where would you be today?
4. If you shared a classified document with a journalist, where would you be today?
5. If you shared a classified document with a member of your personal staff, where would you be today?
6. If you returned the boxes later and they contained numerous documents with classification markings, where would you be today?
7. If your lawyers found additional classified documents still in your possession, where would you be today?
8. If, after a year and a half of negotiations, the FBI arrived at your home with a search warrant and discovered more than 100 additional documents with classified markings on them, where would you be today?
9. If, after nearly two and a half years, you were indicted on 37 felony counts relating to your unauthorized possession and mishandling of classified documents, where would you be today?
10. Trick question: Who are you voting for in November?

Richard Burger, Cape Charles

Capital gains

Re “Harris” (Your Views, Aug. 28): The letter expressed concerns regarding a proposal by Vice President Kamala Harris to tax unrealized capital gains. If you’re not familiar with this proposal, it would only apply to those whose wealth is at least $100 million. If Harris is elected, and I hope she is, I don’t think this proposal will “cause alarm bells to start ringing for everyday Americans and taxpayers,” as stated by the letter writer.

Elizabeth Ray, Norfolk

Re “Trump” (Your Views, Sept. 2): Voters should be advised to critically examine this letter that quotes many officials who worked with former President Donald Trump insulting him.

Actions speak louder than words. Trump’s actions as president should be examined instead of depending on the biased opinions of others. It is unique that we have a direct comparison of the abilities of two candidates for president.

On Trump’s watch there was a Middle East peace accord, which was no easy task.

Under the President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris team there were two wars started, and those are still ongoing.

Needless deaths: Thirteen U.S. service members were killed when the Biden-Harris team withdrew the U.S. from Afghanistan. There was also the loss of military equipment worth billions of dollars and severe national embarrassment.

The Biden–Harris term has been in power for 3.5 years, and Harris’ term could be four more years if she is elected. Then the country will be subjected to Harris’ super liberal policies.

A Trump term will mirror his previous term, low inflation and common-sense policies. Vote wisely.

James Mayo, Portsmouth

Well-informed

Re “Election” (Your Views, Aug. 29): I am amused by the letters from the inculcated MAGA cultists, with this one being the latest. The writer hopes, “A well-informed electorate will decide the winner of the race.”

Trust me. We will.

President Joe Biden reestablished the U.S.’s leadership in the world and restored the health and strength of our NATO alliance, closing an embarrassing chapter in our history where our allies were literally laughing at our then-president.

Former members of former President Donald Trump’s administration confirm this, warning of the danger of a second Trump presidency. Trump’s “steady message and steadfast determination” weren’t quite as persuasive to them as they were to the letter writer. But when the “message” is one of retribution, economic disaster and fascism (see Project 2025), and the “determination” is for the overthrow of our democratic process, it’s understandable.

Many Americans, who support a woman’s right to bodily autonomy; protecting the Affordable Care Act, Medicare and Social Security; taxing corporations and the ultrarich; fighting climate change; keeping Ukraine free; strengthening NATO; and safeguarding our democracy and the right to vote, do not consider these issues to be “socialism” — they consider them “common sense.”

Perhaps a good reference to a fable would be to “The Emperor’s New Clothes”: Those of us who are sentient, literate, and, yes, well-informed know that Trump has nothing but incompetence and a massive ego on which he relies, and those who still support this narcissistic grifter and dictator-wannabe have been tricked into “seeing” clothing that does not exist, but simply cannot yet admit it.

Michael Crescenzo, Virginia Beach

Military

I take exception to former President Donald Trump’s statements that the Presidential Medal of Freedom is better than the Medal of Honor, and that members of the military are “suckers” and “losers.” His vice presidential nominee J.D. Vance disparaged his opponent Gov. Tim Walz for his long service in the Army National Guard.

As a Vietnam veteran, I am incensed that they have the nerve to bad-mouth any soldier — especially Trump, who got out of military service during the Vietnam War because of alleged bone spurs.

The only soldiers in my opinion who are “suckers” and “losers” are the ones who would vote for a coward like Trump. He gives a woman who donated a lot of money to him the Medal of Freedom; it shows you who he really cares for, people with money. I wonder how many of his followers would even be allowed to enter his Mar-a-Lago Club.

John Leavor, Newport News

All aspects of the media have been focused on the event at Arlington National Cemetery. Both sides cry “foul,” but no one has asked, “why?” I’m retired from the Air Force, and throughout my career, I was a part of putting together operations plans. With an operations plan, an inspector/individual could walk into our squadron, receive, review and complete the task successfully, even though it was his or her first time reading the content. Our wing had operations plans for every type of contingency: rapid deployment to a foreign land, domestic support in a crisis or contingency support for any kind of interservice operation. Regardless of the situation, we had something to adequately deal with whatever task was put our way. These plans were continually updated to meet the demands of the current world and equipment situations.

Do I blame the Biden administration for the failure to withdraw? No, they gave an order, and it was poorly executed. My criticism is to the Joint Chiefs of Staff for the fiasco and loss of life in August 2021. The previous administration negotiated the withdrawal (February 2020), and the current one implemented its action, which was scheduled for May 2021 but delayed to August 2021.

According to reporting, chaos was everywhere. In addition to the 13 service members who needlessly lost their lives, some news agencies reported $7 billion worth of equipment was left behind for the Taliban. To the Joint Chiefs of Staff, I ask the question: Where was the operations plan for the evacuation of Afghanistan?

Roger Bir, retired lieutenant colonel, U.S. Air Force, Virginia Beach

Danger

From local town councils and state governments to the halls of the U.S. Congress, members of the next generation of leaders are stepping up to make their voices heard, helping to shape our future democracy.

Today the freedoms we once cherished are under extreme danger in the United States. Extremist leaders want to be in the polling booth with us, in our bedrooms and in our doctor’s offices. They want to suppress the press; indeed, sometimes it seems as if they are winning. They want to elevate a religion that does not resemble the religious doctrine I choose to follow. They are choosing tyranny over liberty, fascism over democracy, and Christian nationalism over patriotism and love of our messy, multicultural country. It’s a country that has high ideals not yet realized, but “We the People” continue to strive toward a better America.

This election is the most important one in my lifetime. As a Virginian born and bred, I have always held our state motto, “Sic semper tyrannis,” “thus always to tyrants,” in the highest regard. In contemporary words, it means tyrannical leaders will be overthrown.

What America are we going to leave for our next generation? It is time to choose. Love of your country and all her messiness or fear of the fevered cult of personality that has infected many in our nation?

Robin C. Comfort, Chesapeake

Are you kidding?

Re “Trouble” (Your Views, Aug. 31): The author opens his letter by claiming that President Joe Biden’s “lack of mental acuity has been well-established.” It’s hard to take seriously someone who could believe that and then go support former President Donald Trump.

He goes on to state, “There’s our vice president, who is totally incompetent and whose silly laugh and policy positions embolden our enemies.” Really? Her silly laugh? He mentions border security but doesn’t mention Trump killing the bipartisan bill so he could campaign on the issue. Again, it’s hard to take this stuff seriously.

Most of all the author does not comprehend the significance of worldwide military decisions. Russia has not won the war in Ukraine because the United States led its allies to support Ukraine’s efforts to maintain its freedom. It is well-documented that many of our key allies don’t trust Trump. After all, he invites Russia to occupy them if they are not up to date with NATO dues.

Our country, the world, democracy, personal freedoms, and our future in general are only in real trouble if Trump wins.

Carl Smith, Virginia Beach

Threat

Recently, desperate Republicans sank to new depths by shamelessly criticizing Vice President Kamala Harris for completely normal behavior, that is, to smile and to laugh. When your conscience is clear, it’s easy to smile. By comparison, former President Donald Trump rarely smiles. He has many reasons not to: He’s been convicted of 34 felony counts, has more charges pending, been impeached twice, found liable in civil court of sexual abuse, and incited an insurrection.

Trump must defend his bizarre choice of running mate Sen. J.D. Vance, who has called Trump “America’s Hitler” and an “idiot.” He lacks an endorsement from his former vice president. And just recently, 238 staffers from four previous Republican presidential nominees have endorsed Harris.

With all of that darkness weighing on his conscience (if in fact he has one), Trump could be forgiven for his reluctance to smile. And that act of forgiveness would be the only one afforded Trump in view of his incessant flagrant lies, despicable actions and existential threat to democracy.

Ken Powders, Chesapeake

Attending popular events at the Virginia Beach amphitheater is a five-star experience until it comes time to leave. Someone needs to come up with an organized vehicle exit plan. The chaotic way it is now causes tempers to flare, horn-blowing and foul language. This in turn gets carried onto the drive home with excessive speeding and lane-changing. Perhaps someone needs to contact Busch Gardens and get some ideas as to how to handle closing-time traffic. They really know how to do it.

Diane Aldridge, Hampton

Responsibility

Re “Taxes” (Your Views, Sept. 9): The letter deals with the fair share of taxes that the rich should pay; the 40% that the 1% of wealthy taxpayers pay as part of the total individual federal income taxes collected is a misleading statistic.

When a working person, even one who is earning below the poverty line, pays 100% of the payroll tax on his or her earned income and the rich person doesn’t, there is a problem.

The 1986 Tax Reform Act was the beginning of a big hit to middle-class taxpayers and a big boon for the wealthy. The very progressive tax code that had the highest individual tax bracket of 90% allowed our country to stay out of major debt. And surprisingly enough, the rich were still very rich.

Cutting taxes when the country still had a debt was/is not good, conservative fiscal policy. Yet, those identifying as political conservatives have been the main thrust behind the borrow and spend principle. It seems that the income tax cuts for the wealthy have done nothing more than foster an atmosphere of greed. Rather than the wealthy using their tax cuts to help their fellow man, they seem to be using them to buy more political influence as judged by those who will pay $100 million and more to a political action committee. For those who are inclined to read what the Bible says about being rich, read 1 Timothy 6:17-18.

Earl Chappell, Virginia Beach

Gas prices

Have you noticed that gas prices in the region have been falling steadily for the past month, and prices for “regular” were in the high $2.80s recently — not too much higher than the price when former President Donald Trump left office and less than it has been under much of President Joe Biden’s term?

Interesting that it’s happening so close to the election. The Biden administration will argue, of course, it has nothing to do with the election and is just another sign of how much the economy is “improving.”

Jim Pauls, Hampton

Save America

Some of us may dislike or even hate the thought of Vice President Kamala Harris becoming the next president of the U.S. The reality, however, is she represents the only viable candidate who can save “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” in America. Former president Donald Trump has stated several times that he plans to become a dictator on his very first day in office if reelected. As we go to the polls to vote this November, or vote earlier by mail, this stark difference between these candidates is something that all of us should be thinking about.

At the same time, we should keep in mind that Trump has distinguished himself from virtually all United States presidents, senators and representatives, past and present, by being impeached twice, indicted four times, convicted of falsifying business records, found liable for sexually abusing and defaming an innocent woman, and now has used the Arlington National Cemetery for political purposes.

Steven Regen, Williamsburg

Remember

It is hard to believe that so many/too many have already forgotten how vacuous, inept Vice President Kamala Harris was to almost everyone (media, Democrats, Republicans, independents, libertarians, even the coastal “elites”) just two months ago. Hopefully, the American people will go to the polls en masse Nov. 5 and completely reject the Harris-Gov. Tim Walz ticket.

Spencer Savage, Virginia Beach

Candidates

Re “Not Harris” (Your Views, Sept. 5): To say that Vice President Kamala Harris is not qualified for the office of president is false. She was elected attorney general in California and then elected as a U.S. senator. Her father was a professor of economics for more than 20 years. The former president has multiple cases pending. Vote the lesser of two evils. I have to.

Milton Stewart, Hampton

Trump

Former President Donald Trump’s behavior never ceases to amaze me. It’s been eight years and just when I think he has sunk as far as he can go, he manages to sink further.

When was the last time you saw anyone in a graveyard grinning and giving a big thumbs up?

At first when I heard about him allegedly violating rules by using Arlington National Cemetery for a political photo op, I was furious. I am still angry, and not just because I am a former military member.

I don’t see how any military member, military family member, veteran or veteran’s family member could even consider voting for him. But I assume some will. I wish someone could explain it to me.

He is a poor, small, scared, miserable and pitiful excuse of a human being.

Neva Beierle, Hampton

We have young people who are afraid to come to school every day because of school shootings. We’ve tried to protect them, but it’s obvious we can’t. Guns are so abundant in this country, there’s no way to ensure a determined shooter can’t find one.

I think it’s time we address the problem at its root. This most recent shooting, like so many others, appears to involve bullying. We know that social media has only increased this problem. It’s time we include the children and young adults in this solution. They’re the ones who are witnessing or committing this antisocial behavior.

Children in school are old enough to educate about the serious consequences of bullying. Teachers and parents can help only so much. It’s the young people who need to start being the watchdogs in the classroom and outing the offenders. Young people need to know the serious consequences of hurtful behavior. They need to understand the link between bullying and school violence.

It’s time to bring the young people into the loop. They’re old enough to get it.

Ellen Jaronczyk, Williamsburg

Rename it

Why does the U.S. Navy have an aircraft carrier named after a bigot? As a prosecutor in Mississippi, John C. Stennis allowed confessions through torture in order to convict three Black men.

As a senator he aggressively led the Southern caucus (white supremacists) in opposing attempts at civil rights. In reaction to a proposal to improve Navy culture, Stennis told the chief of naval operations admiral, “‘Blacks had come down from the trees a lot later than we did,'” according to the U.S. Naval Institute. Stennis signed the infamous Southern Manifesto — a document in opposition to racial integration. Throughout his long career Stennis consistently and actively opposed the civil rights movement.

Of the thousands of U.S. soldiers who passed through Fort Bragg, how many were aware of the fact that the obscure Confederate general the fort was named after was a slave owner? If the U.S. Army reportedly spent millions of dollars to rename a fort, why should not the U.S. Navy rename a ship?

There could not be a more propitious time as the USS John C. Stennis is in the shipyard for refueling and a major complex overhaul. When she comes out of the yards to start her second life, what could be better than a new and more appropriate name?

As a suggestion, make the USS John C. Stennis the USS Ben Franklin. Not only was he a Founding Father who never ran for political office, but there was the legendary World War II carrier, the USS Franklin, which survived horrendous battle damage through the courageous actions of her crew.

Robert Powell, Virginia Beach

Jan. 6

A few weeks ago I had breakfast with an old friend, dear enough that he was a groomsman in our wedding. We acknowledged that our friendship transcends our political differences, as he is more tolerant of former President Donald Trump than am I, though I have voted for both Republicans and Democrats.

My friend mentioned that he likes Trump’s policies but wishes he would just keep his mouth shut. I’ve heard similar comments from other friends. Few reasonable people would disagree with the latter part of their sentiment.

The problem with my friend’s statement, however, is that Trump did keep his mouth shut at one crucial time. According to the House Jan. 6 committee, for 187 minutes on Jan. 6, 2021, he kept his mouth shut as his enraged supporters attacked the seat of our democratic republic, resulting in destruction and incarceration, and injury and death.

When the president refused to heed his advisors and put a stop to the mayhem at the Capitol, he morally disqualified himself from ever holding public office again. Fortunately, we have a better choice.

Wayne T. Blythe, Chesapeake

Harris

I’m not a big former President Donald Trump fan, but can you really imagine Vice President Kamala Harris on the world stage going toe to toe with the leaders of our supposed allies, much less our enemies, at this critical time?

She has little experience dealing with world leaders or foreign policy. Based upon what we do know of her, I don’t think anyone would suggest she is a Margaret Thatcher or Angela Merkel in hiding.

It’s very scary. During these difficult times, maybe someone who brays could be a better choice than someone who smiles and cackles.

Lee Morris, Portsmouth

Economy

Re “Harris’s economic plan would drive up costs” (Other Views, Sept. 6): This column is opposite the prediction of Goldman Sachs on the current election’s potential effect on the economy. They see a Harris administration resulting in lower inflation and increased economic growth versus under former President Donald Trump.

Goldman Sachs has quite the credibility in this area, not just because it is a multibillion well-respected investment bank and financial services company, but it also has a track record of identifying total charlatans. The company refused to do business with Bernie Madoff as it was unable to understand his investment strategy.

Bill Leber, Chesapeake

On Aug. 26, former President Donald Trump appeared at Arlington National Cemetery. Federal law prohibits the taking of videos in Section 60 of the cemetery for political purposes. Nevertheless, this is what Trump did.

Is nothing sacred for Trump? Section 60 is hallowed ground.

We should not be surprised as Trump has a long history of disrespecting our military. Recently, Trump made headlines by stating that a civilian award he gave to one of his campaign donors was “much better” than the Medal of Honor. The head of Veterans of Foreign Wars called Trump’s comments “asinine.”

Retired Marine Corps Gen. John Kelly quoted Trump calling our fallen soldiers “suckers” and “losers.” Trump mocked Sen. John McCain who was tortured for years as a prisoner of war in North Vietnam.

Clearly, Trump has no appreciation for the sacrifices and dedication of our military. Why would any retired or active duty member of our military vote for Trump to be our commander in chief?

James Lonergan, Virginia Beach

2024 election

Here’s what I will consider before I vote for the next president of the United States.

Precursor: Early 2024 in-person voting begins as early as 45 days prior to Nov. 5, Election Day. That’s Sept. 20 here in Virginia. Internal state voter-roll management and cleanup is difficult but a must-do for voting results validity.

Would you buy a house sight unseen and without an inspection? Absolutely not. Then why would you vote for a presidential candidate without knowing what his or her current policy positions and implementation plans are on the many significant issues that impact your life and livelihood? Simply stated, I want to see all the candidates’ cards “face up” on the table before I vote.

In a previous letter I strongly advocated for at least three presidential debates. I want to hear and see the candidates, not their surrogates, nor position statements from their staffs. This is what American voters deserve to best decide who has the intellect, confidence, grasp of the issues and best solution set, and the verbal and unscripted thinking-skills necessary to succeed domestically and internationally to govern and lead our great nation as president.

I want to vote given knowns vice unknowns. Votes should be earned and not automatic.

John R. Baer, Yorktown

Afghanistan

All the attention that has been drawn to this calamity hasn’t taken into account a few facts leading up to it. All the blame is directed toward President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris with no mention of the former administration not allowing a transition team into the different agencies to get a firm grasp of what the current situation was that they would be facing.

There were numerous military and nongovernmental organization officials who had been dealing with the Taliban for months or years who had a good idea what Biden was facing, and I would hope were giving him the best information possible. If they didn’t have the best knowledge of current conditions, how do you expect Biden to know any differently?

Trump signed the withdrawal agreement with a specified date, which really meant nothing because the Taliban were in charge of much of the conditions and could alter the agreement any time they wanted to. It’s also been reported that an ISIS-K suicide bomber attacked Hamid Karzai International Airport’s Abbey Gate. ISIS–K has been at war with the Taliban.

Now we have Trump at Arlington National Cemetery, with some of the families of the 13 service members, his “suckers” and “losers,” using the place for a campaign prop in violation of federal law that prohibits such activity. Despicable doesn’t begin to describe him and his entire campaign.

Jeff Allen, Hampton

Joke to queen

What we have seen play out on the Democratic side in the past weeks and the ascension of Vice President Kamala Harris to the Democratic candidate for president can only be described as from a joke to a queen.

Harris dropped out of the Democratic presidential primary in 2019. Her far-left policies forced her out even before the Iowa caucuses. One can only guess what qualities enticed President Joe Biden to select her for vice president. Diversity, equity and inclusion comes to mind. Prominent Democratic voices even suggested she be taken off the Biden-Harris ticket before the Biden withdrawal.

As vice president she has become famous for her “word salad” comments, her cackle and running off her staff, but she will save the world with her “reproductive rights” platform. Her pro-Palestine stance encourages Hamas to battle on. Her big government or socialist government and open border policies will continue to undermine the average citizen’s life and overburden local governments with migrant issues. While continually fanning the hate Trump flames, she is flip-flopping on her earlier positions fast.

The queen may well ascend to the throne because of the liberal media, but when a prominent Kennedy endorses her opponent and even Mark Zuckerberg seems to be having second thoughts about the Democratic machine, it should give everyone second thoughts about supporting Harris.

Helmut Walter, Yorktown

As the election season arrives, it is instructive to take a look at the map of our country. Change from the default view to the terrain view. Think about where the rivers, water, flatlands and cities are located. Next, look at the population centers. All of a sudden, you can see how complicated the allocation of resources is and the different kinds and levels of resources that are needed for each area.

This is outside of politics. This is inside of reality, and so, when you make your decisions upon what platform you might vote for and which representatives support what you believe in, take the time to examine everything in front of you, the information is there in front of all of us. Let your kids into your thinking process. It will make them better Americans and stewards of the future of this magnificent land that we all inhabit.

Curtis Bailey, Virginia Beach

Taxes

I am mystified by the lack of foresight exhibited by the “tax-the-rich” crowd. They quote percentages of income paid (not dollars) to justify their position.

Fact: The 1-percenters (we’ll call them the “super wealthy”) pay roughly 40% of the federal income tax dollars collected. Fact: Close to 50% of income earners pay no federal income tax dollars. One could pose the question as to what is their fair share? After all, they enjoy the same federal benefits such as military protection, border security, etc., that the super wealthy receive. It’s not rocket science to understand that all of us benefit from the tax dollars paid by the super wealthy. It’s almost criminal to expect them to pay more.

In addition, the 1-percenters have a hand in or are directly responsible for creating many good paying jobs for the rest of us, also, let’s not forget the large charitable contributions many of them make. Just imagine the USA without the super wealthy’s tax contributions. The rest of us would see our tax liability increase twofold or more. A final observation: If “ignorance is bliss,” the tax-the-rich crowd must be ecstatic.

Tom Dingle, Suffolk

Pay attention

Re “Where’s Harris” (Your Views, Sept. 24): The writer describes Vice President Kamala Harris as leftist-Marxist leaning. Karl Marx was not a fan of democracy. Harris supports our Constitution, and democracy and freedom regarding citizens’ health care, voting, consumer and job rights, clean water and air, teaching in safe schools and immigration reform. As vice president, she helped grow the strongest world economy with job creation, inflation reduction, the greatest infrastructure bill working across this country and the successful management of the COVID-19 pandemic. For about 20 years, her public service reflects support of democratic values and the rule of law — not Marx.

Former President Donald Trump said he wants to be dictator for his first day. Regarding Project 2025, GOP vice presidential candidate Sen. JD Vance “has written the forward for a new book by the leader of the far-right governing plan,” according to The Hill. With the blueprint of Project 2025, Trump will have sweeping powers.

If we review Trump’s years in office, we can say he gave a tax cut to the richest and left us with a damaging national debt, which will wreak havoc to our country for decades. In addition, more than 400,000 Americans died under his management of the COVID-19 crisis. As a candidate, Trump is self-absorbed, irrational, a 78-year-old man, twice-impeached, a convicted felon and has been found liable for sexual abuse and business fraud.

He is unfit to hold office as dog catcher let alone president of the United States.

Patty Bates, Virginia Beach