I have to agree with many of the points raised in Karen Gardner’s column “Convicted felon for hire,” (Gazette, June 12, 2024). Donald Trump has certainly given much evidence that his character and record make him unfit to be the president of the United States. However, Gardner finds it difficult to understand why people would still support Trump for president, despite his felony criminal conviction and the deep character flaws that should disqualify him.

Perhaps Trump appeals to some people because he represents their need to throw out the norms that have resulted in an America that some don’t feel is working for them. While I personally support the democratic ideals of our current system – acceptance of election results, respect for everyone’s humanity, civic decency — it seems that many people in our country have given up on those essential values. Donald Trump also offers black and white answers to the complex problems that our nation faces and casts himself as the savior of our country, which resonates to some people.

For me and many others, it’s a serious danger to the United States to follow such a destructive leader. I can only hope that the majority of Americans hold firmly to our traditional values of equality of all people, democratic government, and respect for the law when they vote in November.

Sidney Moss

Northampton