Cruz, show us the evidence
Watch out for woke voters
Regarding “Cruz takes swing at MLB, slams antitrust immunity,” (A13, April 14): If Sen. Ted Cruz thinks that Major League Baseball, corporations and other opponents of laws affecting voter access are unconcerned about stopping voter fraud, perhaps he could provide the specific, factual details and numbers of incidences of past voter fraud that these laws are meant to stop.
It is not enough, Cruz, to simply condescend to opponents by repeatedly calling them “woke.” Show us the evidence of fraud.
Meanwhile, everyone is perfectly free to express their opinions of the legislation using their “woke” words, “woke” feet, “woke” wallets and “woke” votes.
Maureen W., Houston
Flattening the curve
Regarding “Not playing ball with virus,” (A1, April 15): Our COVID statistics are low and getting lower.
But Harris County is still holding at threat level red? The most severe coding for countywide severity of COVID?
Come on now!
George Bigham, Houston
Mass shooters mostly white
Regarding “Targeting a growing epidemic: Houston trauma surgeon to study gun violence like it's a disease,” (D1, April 15): This kind of research is long overdue, having been stifled for decades by the NRA. These grants and planned studies could be a game-changer. But learning why young Black men pick up guns will not address the fact that mass shooters are disproportionately white men.
Monica Perin, Sugar Land
‘Constitutional carry’
Regarding “Texas House approves gun bill,” (A1, April 16): Is it now “common sense” that common, law-abiding Texas citizens shouldn’t need a driver’s license or hunting license or any other license? I really want to know how far this “common sense” attitude is supposed to extend based on Rep. Matt Schaefer’s logic?
Exactly whose definition of “common sense” is he using?
Janet Reed, Pasadena
Oh please! If this no license required to open carry gun law ultimately passes just watch the explosion in gun violence and deaths. It is now official, the Texas Legislature is certifiably insane! If I can finally convince my wife, we are outta here!
Robert Mueller, Houston
House Bill 530 would allow election judges to carry guns in the polling place when on duty. This is very wrong. We know of no instances of polling site violence, even in instances when lines have been unusually long, ballots have run out, or equipment has malfunctioned. If there is fear of violence, then professional law enforcement can be called.
What is at risk here is voter intimidation. Some voters will decide not to vote if they think guns are in the polling place. Weapons are now explicitly prohibited in polling places by Texas law for good reasons. Polling places need to be safe for all voters. Placing guns in the hands of election judges will make many feel unsafe.
Tell your elected officials to oppose HB 530.
Schelda Williams, Houston