Court strikes a blow against democracy

The hearts of Americans have been broken by the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to grant presidential immunity (“Supreme Court rules ex-presidents have broad immunity; Maryland politicians react,” July 1). The rule of law no longer constrains the U.S. president and is now, in essence, a king who has absolute power.

It’s disturbing to think that our nation was formed with the blood of patriots who died in the American Revolution and fought to break away from an oppressive British king. The Declaration of Independence is today irrelevant since its words of equality no longer apply, not that they ever really did.

The great American experiment of democracy is systematically dying. May its spirit never be silenced.

— Mel Tansill, Catonsville

Where is the call for Trump to step down?

I appreciated the recent column devoted to President Joe Biden and whether he should end his re-election bid after his poor debate performance (“Should Joe Biden be running for reelection?” June 28). There have been many thoughtful letters as well.

I look forward to reading the next editorial about Donald Trump ending his reelection bid after his 90 minutes of lies.

— Betsy Schindler, Baltimore

Kamala Harris will get her chance to boost Biden

One key variable has been forgotten in the debate about President Joe Biden dropping out of the election (“Should Joe Biden be running for reelection?” June 28).

If Vice President Kamala Harris beats her opponent in her debate and scores hits on Donald Trump that Biden missed, she will reassure the country that she can step up if needed. Such a victory would also unite the party.

— Geoffrey Greif, Towson

Biden must recognize his limits

After reading Candy Woodall’s column on the position we Americans are facing if President Joe Biden seeks another term, I wrestled back and forth with this and I feel he should not run again (“Should Joe Biden be running for reelection?” June 28). This decision is wrought with sadness and, really, a sense of betrayal on my part. I like President Biden and unquestionably he has made our lives better.

However, the debate was not a one off, a bad night or a cold. Biden needs to be quick mentally as this job demands — all the time. Just like you cannot be a “little pregnant,” you cannot afford to be a “little off” either domestically or with foreign leaders.

I pray that the Lord’s wisdom intercedes and gives Joe the push he needs to realize his very stark limitations.

— Anne Majerik, Towson

Is it ‘Mr. President’ or ‘Your Highness’?

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled “the nature of presidential power entitles a former president to absolute immunity from criminal prosecution for actions within his conclusive and preclusive constitutional authority, and he is entitled to at least presumptive immunity from prosecution for all his official acts” (“Judge delays Trump’s hush money sentencing until at least September after high court immunity ruling,” July 2). The use of the word “his” is troubling enough, but setting that insult aside for now, what can a president be prosecuted for? This decision implies that if an acting U.S. president claims any violation of the law was done under the guise of an “official duty,” then immunity applies, regardless of the crime. Not only that, but immunity from crimes committed while in office is good for life!

This country was founded by people who wanted political and religious freedom and self-governance. Ironically, on the cusp of the 248th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we no longer have a country where no one is above the law. As a citizen, all I can do is vote for future presidents who will not commit crimes while in office and will voluntarily leave when their terms are up, or they are voted out. I have also seen the importance of “kissing the ring” as demonstrated by many of our elected representatives who are apparently fearful of offending a potential future president.

As it seems the country is rushing towards jumping off a cliff, I want to be prepared. My question is this: What is the appropriate nomenclature and etiquette for this new world? Is it King and Queen, Emperor and Empress, “Beloved Leader” or something else? Should I say “Your Highness” or “Your Majesty” should I meet the leader? I don’t want to offend since it now seems that “off with her head” would be perfectly fine — as long as the order is given in an “official” capacity.

— Melissa Falen, Baltimore