Basic promises

Re “Biden talks about unity, but has yet to practice it” (Other Views,

Jan. 29): Star Parker’s piece is heavy on sensationalism but light on substance. Her key claim is that the new president was dishonest when calling for unity in his inaugural address because he has allowed former President Donald Trump’s impeachment trial to move forward and signed dozens of executive orders in his first days in office.

Putting aside that impeachment is the sole responsibility of the legislature and that the president has no power to do this, it’s strange that someone would be surprised at a president following through on the promises he made to voters, who elected him with both popular and electoral majorities.

Perhaps the most baffling passage comes when Parker claims, “Reading through Joe Biden’s laundry list of what he calls unity, we see a list of everything that pulls us apart: ‘We can right wrongs. We can put people to work in good jobs. We can teach our children in safe schools . ... We can reward work, rebuild the middle class ... We can deliver racial justice.’”

Each of these are perhaps the most basic of promises from every American politician, and I am truly at a loss imagining what the author finds divisive about a growing economy, protecting children and combating racism. A COVID-19 relief bill was held up in Congress because President Joe Biden wanted bipartisan support — if Parker sees division, she may wish to get her eyes checked.