Jefferson was a role model

Regarding the removal of the Thomas Jefferson statue from the New York City Council chamber: It is unfortunate that the statue was removed. During these contentious times and polarization, Jefferson can actually serve as a unifying role model.

The election of Jefferson as president in 1800 was extremely controversial and was ultimately decided by the House of Representatives. It was also the first time that there was a transfer of power from one political party to another, with the Federalist Party accepting its defeat at the hands of the Democratic-Republicans. Considering how difficult the peaceful transfer of power is in other countries, this was no mean achievement.

In his inaugural address, Jefferson proclaimed, “We are all Republicans. We are all Federalists.” As a unifier, he kept this developing republic together, and there was no violence comparable to what took place in Washington on Jan. 6, something that those who lambaste Jefferson should consider when looking at his likeness. — Larry Vigon, Chicago

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