Don’t expect to learn very much
Re “Jan. 6 panel says Trump must testify,” Oct. 14
About all the House Jan. 6 committee is likely to learn by subpoenaing former President Trump and having him testify about the insurrection is which of three stock responses he favors most:
■ “I take the 5th Amendment.”
■ “I don’t recall.”
“This investigation is a witch hunt.”
OK, he may throw in an occasional attack on selected committee members, the better to stoke the demagogic drama he relishes.
There is just one thing the panel can realistically expect to gain by subpoenaing Trump: Video footage that demonstrates how a deranged narcissist remains bent on burying the truth.
Sarah S. Williams Santa Barbara
Watching Thursday’s Jan. 6 hearing, I found myself weeping. After the clips and comments and several hours of riveting testimony, what so powerfully impressed was the detailed examination of how one of the most wrenching, perilous days in my life as an American was executed.
Of the many threats cast upon this country over the years, none has affected me as deeply as this insurrection. It gives me the sickening feeling of a cancer that is too close to home. Since that day in 2021, I have not enjoyed the normal deep comfort of knowing that I, as an American, am safe and free.
I hope and pray that our “rock,” the Constitution, will remain in the hands of people who know, respect and love freedom, and are willing to abide by the rules necessary to protect it. It will take a near miracle to manage, but, oh, we must try.
Blessings to those who exposed a real danger to the rest of us.
Sylvia Lewis Gunning
Thousand Oaks