I grew up downstate, proud white trash in a tough neighborhood. No one knew the song “Kumbya.” I’m a Democrat, but only by the skin of my teeth, and not because my ideology is anywhere close to that of the other party.

On Jan. 6, we gave fiery speeches and prayed on the steps of the Capitol. Republicans in D.C., on the other hand were figuring out which laws they could twist to keep from testifying to the Jan. 6 committee. Which judges they could threaten or bribe into furthering their plans, I would guess.

I’ve never been a pacifist, so I’m tired of watching my party leaders write letters, wag their fingers, and make declarations of protest. Former First Lady Michelle Obama said, “When they go low, we go high.” I’m sorry, Mrs. Obama, but exactly where did that get us?

KAREN VERMILYA,

Onaway