These protests are a patriotic ‘no’ to Trumpism

Flushing: Reflecting on the No Kings protests that took place on October 18, I couldn’t help but recall the inflammatory remark made by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt after Zohran Mamdani’s interview on Fox News. She claimed that the Democratic Party’s primary supporters are “Hamas terrorists, illegal aliens, and violent criminals.” This statement is not only unfounded but also reeks of desperation.

Being a New Yorker, I vividly remember the unity and compassion that swept across the nation after the tragic events of 9/11. People from every corner of the United States flocked to New York City to lend a helping hand, offering their time and support to heal the city’s wounds. That unforgettable display of kindness and selflessness is the true spirit of America.

However, we’ve made a grave misstep in this country. The current administration, led by the transaction-focused President Trump, seems to amplify voices like Leavitt, Stephen Miller, Pete Hegseth, and Pam Bondi, who spew divisive narratives. This is troubling, given that many rely on social media and commercial talk shows that misleadingly brand themselves as “news.” Yet, the No Kings protesters serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that Americans are increasingly informed, compassionate, and optimistic. There is a growing movement that refuses to accept the lies and incompetence of the current leadership, standing firm against the deceitful rhetoric of Leavitt and her counterparts. Robert Smith

Too big to bury

Forest Hills: In a remarkable display of unity, seven million people of all ages and backgrounds rallied across the nation, with over 150,000 participants in New York City’s five boroughs. Yet, your decision to bury this significant event on page 12 of your publication is disappointing. As we fight against a presidency that risks becoming a monarchy, this act of sidelining such a crucial moment is regrettable. Lawrence Konstan

Out in force

Ozone Park: It seems our leaders are too preoccupied with leisure activities in Mar-a-Lago to notice the gravity of the situation. The demonstrators are not filled with blind rage; they are citizens who care deeply about preserving a democratic government that serves the people. President Trump must take heed—if he dismisses this sentiment with indifference, the consequences could be dire. Ray Hackinson

At war with his own

Hauppuage, L.I.: Despite the “peace” President Trump claims to promote internationally, perhaps the real reason he didn’t win the Nobel Peace Prize lies in the domestic wars he wages. His administration targets science, journalism, academic freedom, women’s rights, free speech, the impoverished, due process, environmental protection, and even the foundational principle of separation of powers. Greg Arnold

Forgotten fanfare

San Francisco: The U.S. Marine Corps celebrated its 250th anniversary on Oct. 18, but there was no military parade (at least not one elevated and/or attended by President Plump). The U.S. Navy celebrated its 250th anniversary on Oct. 13 (likewise, no Plump, no parade). Back on June 14, when the U.S. Army had its 250th anniversary, a $20-million, highly touted military parade ensued with Plump in attendance and rejoicing. So, what was different? Could it be that June 14, coincidentally, was the rotund one’s birthday? Or maybe that the June 14 parade was such a dismal failure that they decided not to risk a repeated embarrassment? Seems curious. Jimmy Layton

Favors for friends

Brooklyn: This pardon is a disgrace to all Americans. First Mayor Adams, then George Santos. Who’s gonna be next? Trump is abusing his power, and it’s a slap to all Americans. He’s abusing our justice system. Charlie Pisano

Sharp minds & mouths

Boynton Beach, Fla.: I nominate the wonderful ladies of the “I’ve Had It” podcast, Jennifer Welch and her sidekick Angie “Pumps” Sullivan, for president and vice president in 2028. America needs the super-intelligent, in-your-face, no-holds-barred attack these lovely podcasters bring to the table, exposing the gross corruption and incompetence of President Trump and his entire administration. These Oklahoma City girls bring their six-shooters to the fight while Democratic leaders Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries show up with plastic spoons. We need gunslingers like Jennifer and Pumps, not wusses like the aforementioned Democratic leaders. William T. Bredin

Neither happy nor sad

Newton, N.J.: To Voicer Ron Jackowski: Just because I think Charlie Kirk was the personification of evil — and I do — I never advocated for his death. I’d rather have seen him live with the public humiliation that will eventually come his way. But a Presidential Medal of Freedom for advocating hate, bigotry and condoning the murder of schoolchildren? That goes too far. I did say that while I do not condone his death, neither will I mourn it. There’s a difference. Michael Schnackenberg

‘Shotime’

Carmel, N.Y.: Shohei Ohtani’s performance on the mound and at the plate at Dodger Stadium in the final game of the National League Championship Series was one for the ages. My only regret was that it wasn’t against the Yankees at Ebbets Field. As a lifelong Dodgers fan who attended many games at the old ballpark in Brooklyn, I remember Campy and the Duke, along with Gil Hodges, Carl Furillo and my hero, “Old Number 42,” blasting the balls onto Bedford Ave. over the right-field fence. Had Ohtani been playing for the Brooklyn Bums, the balls would have wound up on Staten Island. The man is truly superhuman — not only a fierce force at the plate, but a pitcher focused on excellence. Shohei is another reason I continue to bleed Dodgers’ blue. Eric Gross

Cops left in the lurch

White Plains, N.Y.: Thank you, Voicer Annie Sullivan, you hit the nail on the head. Andrew Cuomo did more for criminals than his cops. Bail reform is a joke. Parole reform put cop killers back on our streets, but you want to hire more cops. Why? The laws are against cops. Next you’ll use the clean slate law and hire them as cops. Cops need your support — not talk, but action. Your bail reform put cop killers back on our streets where law-abiding citizens visit, live and raise their families. There are no true candidates. Zohran Mamdani insulted our cops, but before he decided to run for office, where was his apology? I don’t know if Curtis Sliwa has ever held office, but how can he be any worse? Larry Lombardo

Suddenly important?

Manhattan: I don’t understand why Mayor Adams is so invested in getting a carriage horse ban now when he never cared before. His recent op-ed (“End the horse-drawn carriage industry,” Oct. 19) overlooks important facts: The horses are healthy per veterinarian exams, the industry is very safe per statistics, and these horses offer much joy to children and those who take rides. Adams needs to ride off into the sunset. Olga Humphrey

Honor the tradition

Taylor, Texas: NYC citizens and all Americans have had enough politicization of the NYC carriage horses and their drivers. We need politicians and real estate developers to have a moral compass! The tradition in NYC has been the role model for other cities throughout this country for more than 400 years. The drivers who care for and love them are the salt of the Earth. NYC carriage rides bring delight to people of all ages, countries and backgrounds. Carriage rides may be the only time a person may come face-to-face with a horse. The horses and their drivers should be respected and cherished by politicians and real estate developers, and never banned to be replaced with electric vehicles, or their precious stables torn down for more high-rise buildings. NYC should be protecting the joy and nostalgia they bring to the city every day. Brenda Jones

OK if regulated

East Meadow, L.I.: What is it about the concept of legal immigration that fails to resonate with so many people? Yes, immigration built this country. Yes, immigrants came in waves. However, it was done in accordance with our laws, not undocumented, unregulated “migration.” Greg Hecht