Letter to the editor

GOP, not Democrats, have been on a power play

I’d like to thank John MacDonald for his service to our country, but I have a very different view from his on the political parties in USA. Mr. MacDonald warns that Biden/ Harris would create a one-party system of government; yet all evidence points to a GOP attempt to do so.

Along with a hypocritical campaign to load SCOTUS, the GOP has blocked 100+ judgeships nominated by President Obama in order to pack the courts under a Republican president.

Of late the Democrats have outvoted the GOP in state elections, but because of gerrymandering the GOP regularly controls legislatures, governorships and local government, thereby effectively creating a one party system for themselves.

Historically Democrats have sought power to try to help Americans, especially those less fortunate. Historically Republicans have sought power to help themselves, and as an end to itself.

— William Metcalf

Lowell

Treating epidemics, then and now

The article “How Lowell Isolated a century ago” (Lowell Sun Monday, Oct. 12, 2020) draws a spotlight on our present treatment of Covid-19.

This is the first time in history we have dealt with a sickness or epidemic by isolating the healthy. This has been with lockdowns, and it has been a disaster.

The World Health Organization has finally come out with the decision that it has been a mistake, but not after needless emotional and financial suffering, an increase in drug addiction, alcoholism, suicides and loss of countless small, family owned businesses, as well as an erosion of our civil rights.

Instead, we should protect the vulnerable, treat and isolate the contagious and infected and make reasonable precautions. In an age of modern medicine, we have the means to treat and find cures without such draconian measures. Our ancestors had the right. idea.

To compound the misery, we have exploited this epidemic for political purposes. If there is anyone still on the fence on whether to vote for Biden or Trump, remember that Biden says he would consider more lockdowns and mask mandates, and Trump will not.

— Anastasia Sakellaris

Lowell