LTE: Be Kind When Voicing Political Opinions

Dear Editor,

As American citizens, we all have the right to vote for the candidates we believe are best suited for office. If there is a candidate you do not support, that is your choice — simply vote for someone else.

What I do not understand is why some people feel the need to go on social media and publicly attack candidates with cruel, hateful, and personal comments. Political disagreement does not justify bullying or treating others with disrespect.

The views expressed in this letter are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of HopNews. Letters may be edited for clarity, grammar, and length.

It is perfectly acceptable to disagree with a candidate or their views. That is part of democracy. But there is a difference between respectful disagreement and personal attacks. Candidates are giving their time and energy to serve the community, and whether you support them or not, they still deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

Before posting hurtful comments online, whether you use your real name or hide behind a fake one, people should stop and think about how they would feel if they or someone they cared about became the target of that same kind of public ridicule. One day, it may happen to them.

We can express our opinions without tearing people down. We can disagree without being cruel. Our community deserves better than the hostility and negativity that too often dominate social media today.

Sincerely,