Let’s not incentivize gun owners to store weapon

When will we hold people responsible for what they do or don’t do? Please explain to me why a tax credit is needed to induce a gun owner to store their weapons safely and to ensure they do not get into the wrong hands. Doesn’t public safety begin with a person acting responsibly? While gun ownership is allegedly covered under the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, shouldn’t we expect those owners to take responsibility when handling and storing their weapons?

If they can afford to buy ammunition, they can afford to buy a gun storage case. Or is our next step to give gun owners a tax break to buy ammunition?

JOE PALLADI, BROOKHAVEN

Trump disregards laws and separation of powers

In just two weeks, President Donald Trump has shown a disregard for our laws and the separation of powers under our Constitution. Here are examples that legal experts have identified.

Trump’s order to terminate birthright citizenship was blatantly unconstitutional.

His order to extend the TikTok ban violated the TikTok law. His “Friday night massacre” of inspector generals violated a federal law. His indiscriminate firing of dozens of federal employees violated our civil service laws. His spending freeze violated the Impoundment Act. His DOGE team has seized access to government data in violation of privacy and cybersecurity laws.

I realize that if I mention the “I” word, some folks will go ballistic. But, if any other president had taken these actions, does anyone seriously believe he would not already be subject to a justifiable impeachment proceeding? Tragically, the Republicans are abdicating Congress’ critical role as a separate branch of our government.

DON HACKNEY, ATLANTA

Nation’s political path needs a course correction

When political discourse prioritizes charisma, oversimplified solutions or mass appeal over competence, the democratic process can elevate unqualified leaders like Donald Trump. Historical and contemporary politics provide plenty of examples of leaders whose governance style has been characterized by impulsivity, a lack of expertise or policies driven more by spectacle than substance.

The rise of such individuals who lead us astray often stems from widespread dissatisfaction — real or imagined — where voters seek dramatic change rather than calculated progress. Politicians who capitalize on emotional rhetoric, conspiracy theories or simplistic answers to complex issues can sway the public, even if they lack the ability to effectively govern. Such a situation poses the risk of confusing relatability with capability, highlighting democracy’s Achilles’ heel: when voters prioritize short-term gratification or entertainment, the result may compromise long-term institutional stability and competent leadership. This is the path we are on. Course correction is necessary.

JAMES KANN, ROSWELL

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The U.S. Department of Education building in Washington. (Jose Luis Magana/AP)

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