Herald letters cover socialism, Franklin Commissioner Clint Didier and other topics

Clarifying what socialism really is

In response to Don Sebelien’s criticism of capitalism, we must understand the words we use. Briefly, the accepted definition of “socialism” is that the means of production are controlled and centrally planned for by the government. “Capitalism” refers to these same things being controlled by private, non-governmental, entities.

Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Ireland are not socialist countries. They are capitalist economies with expansive social support policies. Venezuela is both a socialist country (by definition) and a dictatorship. The same is true of the USSR, China and North Korea. This trend is not a coincidence. The powers that allow government control of an economy are the same powers that dictatorial personalities will egregiously abuse.

Regarding the issues you brought up about the U.S.: the medical industry is one of the most government-controlled industries in the U.S., and government policy is what forced excess risk into the housing market prior to the 2008 crash. The lobbying and cronyism made possible and encouraged by this governmental control is what has caused problems here, not free-market capitalism.

We must understand these differences, or we risk learning the same hard lessons as the original socialist revolutionaries of the USSR, China and Venezuela.

AG Lyons, Richland

Richland VFW sign out of line

Respecting the institutions of our government, even while disagreeing with the views of incumbents, used to be the norm. Although I know that standard has been seriously eroded in recent years, I was shocked to see the Richland VFW Post in the Uptown Shopping Center display the phrase “Let’s Go Brandon” on its reader board, just above an ad for karaoke.

Individual members of the VFW are, of course, welcome to their views on the state of the world, our country and our president. But as an organization, the local post should be held to a higher standard. The VFW Annual report for 2020, lists the organization’s core values, including “promote patriotism,” promote a positive image of the VFW,” “respect the diversity of veteran opinions.” Posting a phrase that has become code for “f--- Joe Biden” in such a public place falls far short of these ideals.

Richland VFW owes both their organization and our community an apology.

Nancy Doran, Richland

Didier is always good for a laugh

My wife and I want to compliment you on your occasional coverage of Clint Didier, Franklin County commissioner, District 3. We are both consummate newspaper readers. I grew up in St. Louis reading the Globe Democrat and the Post Dispatch. My later life found me in Oregon reading The Oregonian, and for a while, The Oregon Journal. Now I am reading the (Tri-City) Herald. So often the contents of articles in the newspapers are depressing. Your newspaper, however, has come up with a great way to give comic relief ….. by inserting an article about the behavior of Mr. Didier. Always good for a laugh! We just wanted you to know that we appreciate each and every one of them, and can only ask that you continue your good work.

Anthony Marks, Kennewick

No math needed for this equation

One does not have to be a mathematician to solve this equation:

(18 US Code) +(Section 1505) +(187 minutes of Trump inaction) + (220 Democratic yes votes) + (2 Republican Yes votes) - (208 Republican no votes) = (criminal obstruction of Congress).

Good to know at least 2 Republicans still honor integrity. Yea, Cheney for President and Kinzinger for VP!

Carl Grando, West Richland

This story was originally published December 28, 2021 at 5:19 PM.