Why is Trump getting a pass?

WHILE THE Albuquerque Journal Editorial Board has been quick to criticize China’s deception and our governor’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic, it seems the board must not have similar concerns regarding the president’s response and leadership — or lack thereof. Or did I miss that editorial? If so, please let me know so I can read it.

Following Trump’s election in 2016, a very wise friend of mine expressed the fear that many lives would be lost as a result of that outcome. I am certain he was referring to the likelihood that global warming would be ignored, rules and regulations designed to protect our environment and future generations would be gutted, and minorities, immigrants and citizens in legitimate need of access to governmental social welfare benefits would be seriously impacted.

What my friend could not have foreseen was this pandemic, and the impact that the president’s initial, unfathomable failure to act, and inability and/ or unwillingness to lead the nation through the pandemic would have such tragic, unimaginable consequences. How many lives have been lost and will be lost unnecessarily as a result? Easily in the tens of thousands. How much damage to the economy and the livelihood of many of our citizens will be the final result?

Donald Trump did not cause the pandemic. However, the devastating impact on our nation and its citizens could have been and should have been reduced significantly had he taken appropriate action and provided the leadership that was required.

So, where is that editorial? Did I miss it?

STEVE SIMMS Albuquerque