Letters to the Editor – Gerrymandering, Vice Presidential Debate, Elections, Voting, Cowboys

Watch out for gerrymandering

I am an independent voter who strives to elect the best person for office, regardless of party affiliation. My congressional district, House District 4, was dramatically changed after the Republican-controlled state legislature redrew district boundaries to tighten its stranglehold on Texas voting districts. These were approved by the Texas Legislative Redistricting Board, which is made up of the lieutenant governor, House speaker, attorney general, state auditor and land commissioner – all Republicans.

One look at the shape of my district should shock you. My part of the city of Dallas is now in a huge geographic area that extends almost to Texarkana, no doubt to blunt any opposition to a Republican lockup of the district.

Such blatant electoral maneuvering has limited the number of competitive districts and effectively robbed citizens of the power of their vote. For this reason, I will vote for the straight Democratic candidacy for the foreseeable future until this unacceptable practice is abolished, and I urge you to do the same. This issue is far more important than any political debate.

Peter Stack, Dallas

Trust the results

After our last presidential election, every aspect of the electoral system was questioned, threatened and abused. Like so many, I was upset and angry at how disrespectfully so many people raged against the system just because their candidate lost.

With time comes reflection, and now I think that all this nonsense brought an unexpected value: it was proof positive that our elections are safe, honest and correct. In the upcoming elections, no matter how repugnant the outcome may seem, we must trust the results and accept them with dignity and grace.

David Seay, Plano

These two for president?

After watching the vice president debate, I have a question. Is it too late to drop the current presidential candidates and field only JD Vance and Tim Walz? No matter which candidate or viewpoint you favor, it was refreshing to see two candidates take the stage and have a respectful and professional debate.

I didn’t flinch all night as I usually watch the recent debates. Both candidates expressed their thoughts, beliefs and direction and addressed their many differences. They showed maturity (a trait both of their bosses lacked) by admitting that they could find common ground on at least parts of some issues. Hey, this is a little opportunity for dialogue.

If I remember correctly, I think that’s how it used to work in government. Work toward compromises that benefit people and our nation as a whole.

This debate gave me just a glimmer of hope that perhaps there would be more men and women willing to take political office and restore some level of trust in our politicians. We have reached rock bottom politically. Let’s start with getting up.

EL Biggerstaff, North Dallas

Contrasting images

Here are my pictures from the vice president debate. The debate was structure versus content. The first image showed obvious debate skills used to justify many falsehoods. The second picture was based on common sense and experience. Based on these observations, my selection of the winner is based on the latter.

Jim Smith, Carrollton

Advice column fodder

I’ve been reading Dear Abby for years. And a common theme is about a good, caring person coupled with a bad, selfish person. But instead of following the advice to leave, the good person chooses loyalty. Instead of acknowledging so many flaws, the caring person focuses on the few good things.

With all due respect, I see many good, caring people who must now know that they have a bad political partnership. Luckily, this relationship doesn’t require a messy public breakup. Just skip Donald Trump’s name on the ballot.

Stephen Blow, Sunnyvale

Interesting, the pushback

Re: “Leaders Vow to Fight 3 Props – Accountability, Police Items Are ‘Grenade,’ Says Ex-Mayor; Non-profit organization calls operation ‘fapid,’” according to Thursday’s news.

One thing can be said with the utmost certainty: Since all of these politicians are massively against these proposals, the proposals must be very bad for the politicians and very good for the city of Dallas.

Janet Worthington, Plano

My election advice

Re: “New Americans ready to vote – naturalized in time for November 5th, many can’t wait to cast their ballot,” Thursday news story.

The size of America is the incentive for many immigrants to make it their home. This could be their first voter to have a voice in their government. Some advice and also a warning to new voters: Don’t be fooled by the mainstream media and don’t make the mistake of voting on identity politics. Vote on the ideas and principles that motivated you to come to America. That’s the American way.

Don Skaggs, Garland

Food for thought

Until recently, the Cincinnati Reds’ Great American Ballpark was home to sports betting provider BetMGM. Let that sink in.

Steve Ziemann, Mansfield

All about the Benjamins

Re: “Cowboy Conspiracy Theory,” from Ted M. Moore, letters dated September 28th.

I have to say that I agree with Moore’s theory that the Cowboys defense is concerned about salary disparity. As with everything in this world, the answer is always, “Follow the money.” So, um, yeah, Team Ted for the win!

Trici Keller, Farmers Branch/Brookhaven

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