Right to vote is paramount
Where are the Democrats?
Regarding “Little input on final draft of Senate’s voting bill,” (A1, April 2): Remembering that Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has refused to debate any of his opponents during his campaigns, I was not surprised at the underhandedness of this process. Where are the Democratic members of our illustrious governing body? They should be screaming from Austin telling the truth about how prejudiced our government truly is. What a sham!
It is one thing to realize the Republican party is in trouble in Texas, but quite another to steal into the night to pass such prejudicial legislation.
Texas used to be a place that valued human rights, and the right to vote is paramount.
Mark Niles, Houston
It’s not a conspiracy
Regarding “Voting restrictions bill clears Texas Senate,” (A14, April 2): I’m saddened that Texas Republicans continue riding on the conspiracy bandwagon of voter fraud that doesn’t exist. It’s disheartening that Texas Republicans want to make voting difficult for any constituent. No court has found any meaningful level of fraud, but Republicans never let facts stand in the way of a good voter suppression bill.
Jeanne Calkins, Fulshear
Corporations, step up
Regarding “Dell, American Airlines and other influential Texas companies decry proposed voting reforms,” (April 2): The people of Texas need to put pressure on Texas-based corporations before the list of bills pass into law legalizing voter suppression. In Georgia, Delta, Coca Cola and others “bravely” stepped up after the laws were passed. We need to be proactive and condemn the actions of those sitting in Austin now. Perhaps a published list of corporate contacts would be a good place to start.
Rhonda Stone, Houston
Fresh ideas needed
Regarding “I-45 must not go forward over objections,” (A12, April 1): In regard to the present proposed expansion of the I-45 Project, I wonder if the residence or business of former Harris County Judge Ed Emmett was under consideration for possible demolition or closure, would his opinion that it is odd for the leadership to be listening to this “relatively small group of people” be the same?
It appears that new ideas or fresh ideas are welcomed only when they are presented by the right person, born at the right time and from the right place. Right meaning correct by societal standards, not political leanings.
I applaud Judge Lina Hidalgo’s continuously coming forth with new and fresh ideas. However, it seems as though they are often dismissed or discounted, citing her age, experience, sex or place of birth as the reasoning. As this happens, we, the community of Harris County, are the losers.
Virginia Cones, Houston