Let Mexico pay for the ballroom
Our president/developer wanted a ballroom and took it upon himself to tear down the East Wing of the White House for its construction. This, he said, would be privately funded and not paid for by the taxpayers. The funds would come from supporters and his own money. Presumably that is what has happened. The East Wing was demolished and construction is underway.
But now the push is on for the taxpayers to pay for the ballroom (at some point surely to be named the Trump Ballroom). What happened to the private donations? How much was privately pledged/donated, is any left and how much has Trump personally contributed?
But all is not lost. Perhaps Trump can eliminate the risk of taxpayers being called upon to pay for his ballroom by asking Mexico to do so since they never paid for the wall.
Maurice M. Garcia, Newbury Park
Strong support for Gorell
I am writing to express my strong support for Supervisor Jeff Gorell’s re-election. As a constituent, I have witnessed his dedication and leadership firsthand, particularly following the devastating Mountain Fire in November 2024.
When close family friends lost their home, Supervisor Gorell provided immediate, hands-on assistance that made a real difference in their recovery. Despite high rebuilding costs and complex regulations, he and his staff offered direct access to resources, helping my friends navigate the difficult path to rebuilding.
Critically, because the Mountain Fire was not declared a federal disaster, many residents were left without FEMA support. Supervisor Gorell stepped up to bridge this gap, working tirelessly to connect affected residents with grants and alternative resources.
Additionally, he has supported the community by coordinating with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department to ensure our safety and security at the local houses of worship during these uncertain times.
Supervisor Gorell is responsive, proactive, and deeply committed to his constituents. I highly recommend his re-election.
Rashid Syed, Thousand Oaks
Can’t support Mahan for governor
I was interested in supporting Matt Mahan until I read that Peter Thiel and several “tech bros” were funding his campaign for governor. I double checked this little-known fact, and it’s true.
No way I can support him now. Look for who is funding your candidate of choice. It may surprise you.
B. Rouse, Thousand Oaks
This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Ballroom could be made by Mexico, support for Gorell | Letters
Reporting by Ventura County Star / Ventura County Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
