to the editor: It is beyond hypocritical for the Trumps to accuse a satirist, Jimmy Kimmel, of contributing to hatred and “political illness” in the United States (“Trump Calls on ABC to Fire Jimmy Kimmel After Melania Trump Accuses Comedian of Spreading Hate”. April 27). Political satire is a vital ingredient for a healthy democracy. Rather, it is President Trump who incited a mob to attack the Capitol on January 6, 2021; who recently threatened to wipe out a civilization; that characterizes hard-working, law-abiding immigrants as a danger to the safety of Americans; whose masked officers shot and killed two unarmed citizens during protests against his immigration policies; and whose political brand is based on intimidating and demonizing anyone who does not agree with him or like him. And that's just a short list of the ways Trump has contributed to a culture that fosters hate and political violence.
Perhaps Trump is blind to the effect of his policies and behaviors. Or maybe he's just trying to divert attention.
Peter Niemiec, Saint Peter
