New York trial exposed Trump’s campaign corruption. Want him to run the country? | Opinion

Trial exposed Trump corruption

Defense attorneys in the recent hush money trial criticize the testimony of Michael Cohen, claiming that he is a slimy liar. The solid base of evidence supporting the trial’s conviction, however, did not depend on Cohen’s testimony in the trial. It relied on documents such as emails and testimony of reliable witnesses (many of them Republicans).

Cohen’s testimony simply provided a believable narrative that tied all the evidence together, and no better narrative was offered. For as long as Cohen had been loyal to Trump, Trump liked him and depended on him — he was the fixer. When Cohen paid $130,000 to the porn star out of his own pocket, with Trump’s approval, Trump was happy to pay him back with $420,000 for “legal services.”

A reputable and ethical organization has no need for a slimy, lying fixer, but the Trump organization does — Cohen filled a key role in the Trump organization as the fixer. This hush money trial put a bright spotlight on the Trump organization’s corruption — let’s keep that corruption out of the White House. Do not cast a vote in November that will put that level of corruption into the Oval Office.

Robert Scherpelz, Richland

Migrants need aid more than ever

COVID-19 had a profound impact on all communities within the United States. However, immigrant communities who had previously faced healthcare disparities, were overburdened with hardships brought on by the pandemic. Many immigrants, regardless of their documentation status, were unable to receive government aid or assistance.

This is despite being less likely to have the ability to adequately social distance or quarantine due to their financial and housing situations. Increasing financial and community support for immigrants during this post-pandemic time is a necessary step toward lessening those burdens. Now more than ever, we must come together to support the members of our community who need it the most.

Local initiatives, such as the Tri-Cities Immigrant Coalition have set up food banks, COVID-19 relief funds, created language justice tool kits and curriculum, and much more. Contributing in any way possible is a positive step toward creating substantial change in the lives of immigrants in the Tri-Cities.

Reese Andrews, West Richland

There’s no CRT in Kennewick schools

At the Kennewick School Board meeting on May 8, a group of private school parents each addressed the board with their concerns about Kennewick schools. A dominant concern was teaching CRT in our schools. Following their comments, some board members addressed the private school parents to say that the board members agreed with many of their concerns and regretted that existing state laws hampered them from taking action.

The board missed an opportunity to correct these misconceptions, and inform them that Kennewick teachers teach only factual history, and that Critical Race Theory has never been part of KSD curriculum. Some private parents and school directors shared concerns about KSD schools supporting transgender students.

KSD strives to meet the individual needs of all children regardless of their ability, race, sex, creed or social standing, and providing transgender students. Providing equal treatment, is not, as one director suggested, special treatment. As their Code of Ethics states, board member must strive to ensure that the community is accurately informed about our schools, and to refuse to surrender to special interests, and be free from the influence of partisan political groups.

Kathryn Schroeder, Kennewick