We don’t react to bad behavior now, we savor it

Bloomington, Ind.: Venting outrage when a public figure or celebrity from the opposing side makes a misstep feels deeply satisfying. Often, these reactions are more performative than genuine. While we might appear to be incensed by the latest controversy, many relish the chance to critique ideological opponents. In today’s landscape, where moral posturing often replaces true ethical integrity, taking the moral high ground is a gratifying exercise.

While some scandals warrant genuine concern, the uproar often highlights our allegiance to a particular group rather than a pursuit of justice. Expressing anger online serves as a badge of belonging to a moral community, one that thrives on a steady stream of wrongdoers to affirm its virtue. Without new scandals, this spectacle falters. Social media has intensified this cycle of indignation, making it both accessible and addictive. A single share or retweet can broadcast a moral stance to a vast audience, enhancing our perceived righteousness the more we engage. Yet, this rarely fosters growth. Instead of nurturing empathy or understanding, it entrenches us. We find pleasure in the downfall of others rather than seeking justice, preferring the spectacle of their humiliation over addressing our own flaws.

The harshest truth may be that we enjoy this process. Outrage gives us a sense of vitality, purpose, and moral clarity. However, by indulging in this satisfaction, we risk becoming what we despise: individuals more concerned with appearing virtuous than genuinely doing good. Scott Thompson

Soft target

Glasgow, Scotland: In light of the cruel and unkind remarks made by America’s president, who will remain unnamed here, it’s unsurprising that his comments targeted someone as compassionate as Rob Reiner and his wife Michele after their tragic passing. Their advocacy for kindness and inclusivity, especially for the LGBTQ community, stood in stark contrast to the president’s narrow vision of the ideal American — often depicted as heterosexual, Christian, and white. This vision is perpetuated by the president’s followers. Rest in peace, Rob and Michele. The world already misses you and eagerly awaits the day it can say the same for your current president. William Ina Kay

Lower he’ll go

Carle Place, L.I.: The president’s remarks about Rob Reiner should not surprise anyone. Is this his most offensive statement yet? To borrow a line from the 1960s “Batman” TV series, “The worst is yet to come.” Rudy Rosenberg

Devoid of grace

Woodstock, N.Y.: It’s common knowledge that President Trump lacks an understanding of Christian values, akin to not recognizing a gaping hole in the floor. JD Vance, on the other hand, purports to practice Catholicism, while MAGA Republicans frequently invoke the Bible. So why is there silence on compassion, empathy, and kindness following the tragic death of Reiner, who exemplified Judeo-Christian values like welcoming strangers, caring for the needy and sick, and loving others as oneself? Reiner also financially supported causes aligned with these ideals. Instead, from Trump and his supporters, we hear only hate-fueled rhetoric. Where in scripture, either testament, is there room for such ugliness? Suzanne Hayes-Kelly

Delayed delivery

Manhattan: I had read a piece a few days back about likely major issues at regional USPS distribution centers owing to inadequate staffing under Trump. I can confirm that a package I have been expecting at my apartment has been languishing in the Queens Distribution Center for six days as I write this, with no further updates or new ETAs. What is going on over there? Have other Daily News readers been complaining about similar problems? Jerry P. Danzig

Digging himself deeper

Chicago: Trump is no longer simply a domestic thug, he’s now an international criminal, sinking ships in international waters and confiscating cargo that doesn’t belong to him. In doing so, he’s drawing comparisons to Vladimir Putin, who creates acts of violence and terrorism and waits for an anxious world to cry out for justice. One has to wonder when it will all stop since a third impeachment trial seems out of the question and an international court lacks the power to enforce any judgment. Doesn’t the Trumpster have enough on his plate with a faltering economy, popularity that’s at an all-time low and ballroom construction that’s already over budget? Something tells me 2026 will be quite a show, even if our president survives his diminishing cognition or those notoriously swollen ankles. A toast seems in order — to the survival of our democracy, with or without the aid and comfort of Trump. Bob Ory

Still on the air

Brooklyn: Funny how this past summer, the media was putting Howard Stern out to pasture. I never listen to rumors. Once again, Howard proves people wrong. As a 34-year Howard Stern fan, I must congratulate him on his new Sirius contract. Howard interacts with his fans daily and keeps it real. Robin Quivers, Fred Norris, Gary Dell’Abate (Bababooey) and Ronnie Mund have been by his side since forever — true loyalty. The show is a staple in his lifelong fans’ lives. I’m looking forward to more laughs, great interviews and some Richard and Sal antics. God bless the King of all Media on his incredible career. Merry Christmas to all. It’s just what I wanted and needed. Mariann Tepedino

Don’t let chaos reign

Staten Island: Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani should follow the policies of both Mayor Adams and Bill de Blasio and not allow the homeless encampments that only show a city that is out of control. This is the case in L.A., San Francisco and Portland, Ore. If the mayor-elect wants to pay for all the policies he wants to put into effect, he will need to show a city that is in control to keep his tax base from leaving. Richard Smith

Gas fails the grid

Sleepy Hollow, N.Y.: We’re not going to solve our energy problems with slogans, nor with the alarmist NYSIO report (“NYC grid is at risk, we must act now,” op-ed, Dec. 15). The wait for new gas turbines is as long as seven years. I’m tired of hearing about the alleged unreliability of solar and wind power. Battery energy storage technology has radically improved, enabling the capture of renewable energy to release at peak times, protecting the grid. Now that a judge has ruled that offshore wind projects can proceed, they can plug into the grid and provide energy faster than new gas plants, as can solar farms. Keeping gas in the mix means further investment in methane-leaking pipelines, a costly burden for ratepayers for decades. Gov. Hochul must pull out of the quid pro quo she made with Trump — Empire Wind for the NESE pipeline — and save New Yorkers from paying for it. Bridget McFadden

Constituency check

Bronx: When our leaders care more about catering to the mighty dollar than the best interests of our citizens, we have reached the fork in the road. Gun violence, environmental ruin, medical insurance survival is an afterthought. We must remind our representatives to represent us, not big business. Get off your bulging wallets and earn the respect you were supposed to work for. Let’s get people who want to better our lives, not destroy them. Mark Benveniste

Abundant ice

Yonkers: If the Rangers make the playoffs, at this point I hope they don’t have home ice advantage. David Swatowy

Poised to lose

North Arlington, N.J.: To Steve Cohen: You promised us a title within five years — it didn’t happen. You said we were going to be the Dodgers of the East, but that will never happen as long as David Stearns is general manager. He should be fired and you take over as GM until you can hire someone who is willing to spend on fan favorites and free agents. He doesn’t want to give long contracts to anyone over 30. Check the ages of the players on the Dodgers. Barbara Sciortino