Readers write

Trump’s first week was not so great

So this is what making America great again looks like?

Unconstitutional executive orders, phony emergencies to militarize the border, canceling flights for vetted refugees who waited years to enter the United States, ending asylum for those fleeing drug cartels and failed governments (the result of U.S. demand for drugs and export of guns), picking fights with allies, neo-imperialist demands, ditching diversity goals to make discrimination protected again, disgraced and disgraceful Cabinet secretaries, sweetheart deals with oligarchs.

I can’t wait for the second week.

FRANK RUECHEL, KENNESAW

Stop complaining about immigrants and fix the system

About 35% of Americans trace their lineage to an ancestor processed through Ellis Island. On arrival, doctors checked for contagious diseases in less than a minute while processors asked questions about occupation, origination point and financial status. These new Americans scattered across the land, taking up residence in large U.S. cities or heading west for a chance at the American dream. They came here to flee persecution, escape famine, pursue freedom or because of difficult economic conditions. Though held in contempt by those (also immigrants) already here, they soon became vital contributors to America.

This history rings familiar compared with today’s immigration issue, yet there is one big difference. To be processed out of Ellis Island and into the fabric of our country took less than five hours. Now it takes five years. Would many of us be Americans if our ancestors had to wait that long? We know that answer. Stop complaining about the immigrants and fix the process, or tell grandpa he should’ve stayed home.

MICHAEL BUCHANAN, ALPHARETTA

Jan. 6 pardons cause concern for supporters

President Donald Trump was elected with a mandate for his policies on immigration, diversity, the economy, technology and national security. In his words, “making America great again.”

But with the recent pardoning of all the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrectionists — a bit too crazy for even his most ardent supporters — it makes one wonder. Will Trump make the same mistake the Democrats made? Will overzealous conservative actions equal the overzealous progressive actions of the Democrats?

Trump was elected on grandiose promises he made to bring back conservative sanity. He was not elected to reward any group that fought for him or punish any group that fought against him. He was elected to fulfill the promises he made on the campaign trail. Time will tell if these promises are fulfilled or if they were all just political smoke and mirrors.

BECKY SMITH, ROSWELL