I lived in Baltimore for 53 years. Trump’s comments are just political venom.

James S. Robbins, in his column “The president is right about Baltimore. Are Democrats really prepared to defend failure?,” addresses President Donald Trump’s rants attacking the city.

Having lived in the West Baltimore area for 53 years and having taught in a West Baltimore school, I witnessed the bad situation there my entire life. Money doesn’t fix it. Social change doesn’t work either. Trump’s comments are political and unpresidential. The problems in Baltimore can be found, to some degree, in any large city, including a few blocks from where Trump lives. There’s no point in singling out one city. It’s just political venom.

William Sheppard Chesapeake Beach, Md.

President Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves with the Emancipation Proclamation. President Lyndon Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act. Meanwhile, President Trump declared that he’s the “least racist person there is anywhere in the world,” having done more for African Americans than any other president. But what has he actually done? JoAnn Lee Frank

Clearwater, Fla.

As for responsibility for improving Baltimore, all levels of government bear some responsibility, either directly or indirectly. Trump’s shorter time in office is a mitigating factor, but it doesn’t detract from his responsibility to all Americans.

David Williams

Toronto Trump was correct. How disingenuous of Democrats to defend Baltimore’s Rep. Elijah Cummings or anyone who has had a role in governing this city. Bob Cottam WANT TO COMMENT? Have Your Say at letters@usatoday.com, @usatodayopinion on Twitter and facbook.com/usatodayopinion. Comments are edited for length and clarity. Content submitted to USA TODAY may appear in print, digital or other forms. For letters, include name, address and phone number. Letters may be mailed to 7950 Jones Branch Drive, McLean, VA, 22108.