Time to reassert civics and logical discourse

The vote by Rep. David Valadao, R-Bakersfield, to impeach President Trump (“Valadao lone state Republican to impeach,” Page B1, Jan. 16) was a reminder to this onetime political science student.

Over 50 years ago I discovered that almost all of the people in politics compromise their principles.

Impeachment is one of the most important constitutional issues we have right now, but Valadao only addresses the cold calculus of holding power and getting reelected.

We need two things in America right now.

We need to emphasize the teaching of civics, particularly the Constitution and the rule of law.

And we need to impose a code of conduct throughout our political system — any statement made must be factual, logical and provable.

We will refuse to accept slogans, code words or meaningless symbols. We must demand solid reasoning if we are to save our country.

— John Cormode Mountain View