I have a Facebook account that I have not updated in years and rarely visit. However, on occasion, a notification comes through to my email and out of curiosity I click on it. This happened recently with a political video that someone had reposted in which the video host was doing his best to make Joe Biden look like an idiot. He pointed out an error in logic from one of Biden’s responses during a debate, calling him an imbecile and pointedly laughing at the absurdity of what he had said.
And, in my opinion, the video poster had a valid point. In response to a question about use of police force, Biden mentioned that there are ways to de-escalate situations and then immediately mentioned shooting people in the leg. This does not seem the most logical leap. Whether it was from a lack of deep understanding of what happens in these scenarios or from the fact that Biden did not fully explain his answer in the way he intended, I can’t say.
Toward the end of the video, the host made an error of logic of his own, asserting that the process of developing a vaccine is resulting in a leveling off of the number of COVID-19 cases. Again, there seem to be a few connections missing in this line of reasoning.
It disheartens me that we seem unable to point out the errors in logic of others, while still treating the other person with dignity and respect. This concept should apply no matter which political party you are endorsing.
Have we, as a society, gotten so numb to this type of language and treatment of others that we have accepted it as normal? Have we forgotten that when you repost someone’s thoughts on your social media page, you are endorsing not only their message but also the way the message is delivered?
We can do better. Let’s think carefully about the words we use and the way we deliver our message, no matter what that message might be.
JENNIFER DRISCOLL
Hartland
How depressing, tuning in to Vermont’s statewide races this year. Sad to hear Gov. Phil Scott posing as Mr. Nice Guy, the great Republican moderate, when he automatically opposes anything in the public interest that he suspects might inhibit businesses (such as his own) from doing whatever they please. To me that’s extremism. If you want to know the outlook it’s based on, check out Ayn Rand.
Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman, who’s focusing on what will work for Vermont, its economy and its future, is cast as a mush-for-brains hippie farmer lost in fantasies. The real fantasy is that picture of Zuckerman, who in real life is a guy who works his butt off and knows what he’s talking about.
Even sadder is listening to Scott Milne trash Molly Gray over irrelevant trivia using every trick in the attack-dog playbook. Gray is the real deal here: Her youth and energy is exactly what’s needed in these extraordinary times. She may be a rookie, but she’s done her homework — unlike her opponent, a travel executive who’s been a stranger to public service and whose platform is that he’d like to be elected.
Phil Scott and Scott Milne as Vermont’s leaders? Don’t make me laugh. We have better choices. Let’s not waste them.
DAN BRESLAW
West Corinth
I fully support the election of Ray Gagnon for Sullivan County commissioner because I feel that he is the best-qualified candidate for this job.
His past experiences as a state legislator for 12 years, mayor and member of the Claremont City Council, chairman of the Sullivan County Delegation, and a former U.S. marshal, among many more life experiences, have made him the best-qualified person to help lead Sullivan County forward through some challenging times, particularly when it comes to the proposed renovations or construction at the county nursing home.
He is a public servant who has dedicated 40-plus years of his life as a manager for the community, county and the state, as well as the federal level. For these reasons, my vote on Nov. 3 will be for Ray Gagnon for Sullivan County commissioner.
STANLEY WOODMAN
Unity
The residents of Stockbridge, Pittsfield, Bethel and Rochester are very fortunate to have the opportunity to send a great representative to Montpelier. That individual is Kirk White, of Bethel. He is driven by a passion for our communities and to help improve the affordability for residents and to allow generations to be able to stay, work and raise their families in our idyllic towns.
He has the ambition, knowledge and drive. He is a proven leader and master at getting things done to build stronger communities. He doesn’t back down from a challenge, as evidenced by his efforts in creating the Bethel Revitalization Initiative and the Bethel University.
One of his best attributes is his ability to listen to and understand people. Then he can develop ideas, and ideas are the basis for solutions. I have no doubt that he will apply the same ability as our representative.
One of his missions is to address opiate addiction and mental health problems. There are few resources available in our area for kids suffering from mental illness. I’m certain that given the opportunity, he will work tirelessly to help improve our resources.
Please join me in supporting Kirk White in the upcoming general election. In this time of COVID-19, you can vote safely by voting the ballot that has been mailed to you.
DONNA BRYAN
Stockbridge, Vt.
Don’t look now, but the man who is calling Joe Biden “the worst candidate in history” is giving Warren G. Harding a run for his money.
BARRY WENIG
Lebanon