Readers respond

Time to curb excessive presidential powers

The exit of President Joe Biden and the entrance of President Donald Trump have put into focus two powers of the executive office that must end: presidential pardons and executive orders (“Trump order on EVs targets Maryland programs. Experts say parts might not stick.” Jan. 27).

We are supposed to be living in a democracy where the actions of government are directed, regulated and controlled through a system of checks and balances of the legislative, judiciary and executive branches. Yet, as we have seen, a president has the unchallenged power to issue hundreds of pardons to convicted (and even not yet criminally charged) persons and sign hundreds of executive orders which have a major impact on how the country is run — and may even be constitutionally questionable.

These presidential powers strike at the very heart of our government — they are more typically exercised by a king or a dictator. They are not suited for a democracy.

Where are these powers noted in the U.S. Constitution or federal law? Wherever they are, they don’t belong in our system of government and should be revoked.

— Donald T. Torres, Ellicott City

No tears for bureaucrats going back to the office

The newest complaint from some federal employees is that the “return to office” mandate represents a pay cut (“Trump’s moves to slash federal workers are raising alarms in Maryland,” Jan. 23). No, what it represents is the end of an unearned bonus.

— Sharon Maenner Carrick, Mitchellville

Federal workforce not most efficient, effective

Regarding the recent article, “Trump’s moves to slash federal workers are raising alarms in Maryland” (Jan. 23), I take great exception to former Maryland Gov. and ex-Social Security Administration Commissioner Martin O’Malley’s statements that productivity significantly increased with remote employees.

I filed for Social Security benefits on Nov. 24 and have yet to receive any written correspondence or notification regarding payment of benefits as I have dutifully contributed for over 52 years. If this silence and inaction is an example of “increased productivity,” then I wholeheartedly agree with Kentucky Republican U.S. Rep. James Comer and I’m not “buying what [he’s] selling” either.

In addition, I have sent two emails to my new representative in Congress, U.S. Rep. John “Johnny O” Olszewski Jr., and have not received a reply. Perhaps his office is employing telework as well, all in the name of increased efficiency.

— Michael L. DeVincentis, Jr., Timonium

Mark Andrews can hold his head up high

I absolutely understand and appreciate Mark Andrews words of disappointment regarding his dropped game tying catch (“Ravens TE Mark Andrews addresses playoff drop on Instagram: ‘I’m devastated,'” Jan. 23). I know he feels responsible and has even been unjustly attacked by some for the loss. However, let’s put this into perspective.

First of all, Mark was not the only one responsible for the loss. Fingers can be pointed in all directions from other players to coaching decisions. Given the Ravens wealth of talent, there should never have been a two-point deficit in the first place. I just felt that the Ravens team as a whole did not show the fervor and intensity with which they played the Steelers the previous week.

Second, as John Harbaugh rightly says: “We are not where we’re at throughout the course of the season or in the game without the contributions of Mark.” Truer words were never spoken. Mark Andrews has one of the league’s toughest work ethics and has been successful over the course of his career more often than not, as he is the all time leader in Ravens touchdown grabs.

Last but not least, people tend to forget that our sports heroes, although they may achieve super human feats are, in fact, only human. Human beings make mistakes but we learn from them and do better next time. That’s how we grow and improve.

I would just like Mark to know that he is an extremely talented young man with such a bright future. I predict this fluke that occurred will make him even stronger and a better person than he already is. His best days are yet to come!

— Linda deKowzan, Lutherville

Hall of fame deadline extended

The Baltimore Sun is seeking nominations for its 10th annual Business and Civic Hall of Fame, recognizing individuals who’ve fostered transformational change in the Baltimore region. Email nominations by Feb. 10 to [e-mail] with a brief description of the nominee’s accomplishments and background. We will announce the 2025 inductees in March, and honor them with an event and special newspaper section in June.