Letter to the editor: Political violence is never OK

I completely agree with Sen. Kim Ward’s comments (“ ‘It’s a scary time in politics,’ state Sen. Kim Ward says following Minnesota shootings,” June 17, TribLive), in which she decried the recent political killings in Minnesota. Neither she nor any other person serving in our governments (whether elected or appointed) should have to feel that their life or well-being are threatened by people who disagree with their political or judicial stance.

I admire the courage and dedication of Ward and others who choose to put themselves forward to try to peacefully carry out the duties they have taken on.

However, although representatives from both sides of the aisle initially spoke out against the violent insurrectionist activities of Jan. 6, sadly there were very few Republicans protesting President Trump’s pardoning of those who physically attacked the Capitol, causing disruption of the required duties of Congress along with injuries and death to people trying to defend that institution. What was the message sent by Trump and those who, by their silence, have tacitly condoned this violence? Are threats and political violence OK if they further the aims of your party or beliefs? Sometimes, silence can be nearly as hazardous to our well-being as nefarious behavior.

Let’s hope that we have no more such horrible actions and intimidation, but if we do, all of us should speak out against it, and none of our leaders should excuse the guilty by pardons.

James Sillaman

Unity