Republicans have much better options than Donald Trump

Know when to fold’em

Donald Trump announces run for president | Nov. 17

Former President Donald Trump should have heeded the words of Kenny Rodgers: “You’ve got to know when to hold’em, know when to fold them.” Yes, under his term in office we had a growing economy, low unemployment and low inflation, along with a more secure southern boarder. The Republican party morphed from focusing on Wall Street to Main Street. More working class Democrats, African American, Asian and Hispanic voters became comfortable supporting Republican candidates. Give Trump credit for laying the groundwork in fast tracking development of COVID 19 vaccines.

On the flip side, under his watch Republicans lost control of both the House and Senate. In 2022, too many Trump endorsed candidates lost the November general election. It is time for a new generation of GOP leadership to go forward in 2024. There is a deep bench of Republican governors and senators for 2024 Republican Party primary voters to select from. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ winning formula could place New York and other Democratic leaning states in reach for Republicans to carry in 2024.

Larry Penner, Great Neck, New York

Minnesota map

And some more irony? | Letters, Nov. 16

To the letter writer who is impressed with all the red on the color-coded political map of Minnesota: our Democracy functions by one person one vote. Fortunately, the voting has nothing to do with square mileage. If your state is “controlled by urban democrats,” it is because they got the most votes. I am left to wonder if your argument is more foolish or more dangerous.

Tom McCarthy, New Port Richey

Democratic strategy

Democratic meddling | Letters, Nov. 16

Ho hum. Yet another misguided letter writer’s opinion that demands my retort. This one involves Democrats helping hard-right candidates win Republican primaries. The write confuses meddling — ”intrusive or unwarranted interference” — with strategy — ”a plan of action or policy designed to achieve a major or overall aim.

Any perceived meddling should more accurately be described as an intelligent plan of action adopted by Democrats to make it easier for Republicans to beat themselves.

Rick Sherin, Tampa

The lunatic fringe

Voters in several states approve progressive measures including marijuana legalization | Nov. 12

I’m old enough to remember when African Americans were not seen on TV or in politics, and the very word “homosexual” was not uttered in public. Whether extremists like it or not, the midterm elections show that 21st century America is trying to keep becoming a more diverse and tolerant place, with or without a superstar president. Those who cry for a “civil war” to stop it are a dangerous but thankfully small lunatic fringe.