Iowa Republicans cheapened the tribute of lowering flags
From the 1950s when I was born until recently, having the United States and state flags flown at half-staff was done to honor the passing of highly respected and well-known individuals in our nation and the world at-large: presidents and other deserving political leaders, prominent military personnel, astronauts who risked their lives to advance science, artists who contributed greatly to culture, and advocates for peace and humankind (Martin Luther King Jr., for example, who gave his life in the pursuit of justice and freedom for the disenfranchised).
The decision by the current president and our own governor in Iowa to extend this privilege to right-wing extremist/activist Charlie Kirk was a disgrace to our nation’s cherished tradition and a slap in the face not only to prior honorees but to the countless millions of Americans who wholeheartedly disapproved of the racist and sexist views of Kirk and his followers.
And now, because a single Iowa governmental body refused to adhere to Gov. Kim Reynolds’ declaration following Kirk’s death, Reynolds and other Iowa Republican leaders are attempting to pass legislation that would force cities and counties to submit to these politically and idealistically motivated actions.
Kirk’s murder was horrible and undeserved, but he doesn’t rise to the level of the honor that was given to him and forced upon those who saw him as divisive and detrimental to the common good. Once again, it appears that Iowa members of the political party that promotes itself as the shining example of patriotism and honorable values is quick to besmirch those ideals when it suits their agendas.
Gordon Miller, Waukee
Tobacco-tax increase should be effective
Although I disagree with almost everything Gov. Kim Reynolds has done during her terms in office, I was very pleased to see she is taking steps to reduce tobacco use in Iowa and make Iowans healthier in general.
The last time Iowa raised taxes on tobacco, some were complaining it would do nothing and folks would just buy tobacco in other states, or from the black market, or steal them from stores. Well, it turns out tobacco use did go down, especially among young people, and the world did not end. You’ll never be able to force many folks to end their self-destructive habits, but we can pass measures like this that will help to guide many folks to make healthier decisions.
John Moore, Newton
Super Bowl victory was a first for the Drake Bulldogs
On Feb. 8, the Seattle Seahawks won Super Bowl LX. A backup tight end and special teams player for the Seahawks was Eric Saubert, a former tight end for Drake University. According to my research Eric is the first player from Drake to ever win a Super Bowl ring. He played well that day and made all of us watching the game together feel proud. Congratulations, Eric!
Gene Miller, Fenton
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa Republicans cheapened the tribute of lowering flags | Letters
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