Twisting a pandemic for partisan ends is unnecessary and divisive

To the editor:

I was stunned by the recent letter to the editor submitted by Mark Agather (“We must make hard sacrifices to overcome the economic challenges presented by COVID-19”). In this dire economic and health crisis, I was surprised The Western News printed such an insensitive diatribe, serving no purpose other than to fan the flames of divisive politics and mistruths.

Mr. Agather grew up in Libby and should be cognizant that a large share of the population currently has lung disease owing to asbestos exposure. An epidemic of the coronavirus would prove fatal if an outbreak occurs (though I hope I’m wrong), which is just a matter of time.

No one wants to see the economy in a tailspin. To put people “back to work by Easter Sunday” was not only a stupid thing to say, but dangerous, reckless and irresponsible. It’s a moot point now, but for President Donald Trump to say such a thing does not fall under my definition of a “great job handling this emergency.”

This crisis does have parallels to a war, especially World War II, and Trump has shown virtually no leadership. Instead, he has attacked governors, engaged in name calling, ignored health experts and spent more time worrying about poll numbers than developing a coherent strategy to lead the nation.

He tried to duck for cover at the start of the outbreak with his usual lies and bluster, hoping it would somehow just “disappear.” It backfired, and every time he opened his mouth investors panicked due to the uncertainty generated by him exhibiting his ignorance and incompetence, causing the stock market to drop a few thousand points each time.

Personally, I think Trump is sweating bullets about his re-election more than anything. If not re-elected, district attorneys in New York are going to have a field day with indictments and subpoenas for his cartel. Rikers Island could be the new Mar-A-Lago.

If Mr. Agather is so flippant about having to “sacrifice” the “younger generation” in the battle to resurrect our nation’s economy, I would only assume like in any war, he would put his money where his mouth is, and lead the charge.

Tom Horelick

Libby