Hate of the president
My confusion stems from the fact that most of the letters I read in this section (I really don't know why I even read them) are willing to defeat all Republicans because of their hate of Donald Trump. Obviously from reports, Democrats are vocal on stuffing the Supreme Court to satisfy their unhinged desire for one-party rule. Trump's policies may rub some the wrong way, but I believe they are all pro-American based, even the new White House wing that America can be proud to have dignitaries from other nations to be entertained. It seems Joe Biden and Barack Obama have brought the hatred of America to the mainstream. Trump is different, but he loves the USA. I'm not convinced the national Democratic Party does. Show me; I'd like to see some Democrats offer policies, not hate speech. I don't think they have any.
JOHN KING
Cabot
Stand with Ukraine
Less than a month ago Congress overwhelmingly approved stronger sanctions to put economic pressure on Russia and those supporting its war against Ukraine. All six of Arkansas' congressional delegation--both senators and all four House members--supported the sanctions bill(s). With the stroke of a pen the evening of Oct. 16, Donald Trump defied the Arkansas members, the U.S. Congress and the American people by exempting Russia from the sanctions.
As an American citizen and staunch supporter of Ukraine, I am ashamed that President Trump continues to side with Vladimir Putin against Ukraine.
I am grateful the Arkansas congressional delegation--through their votes and statements--has acted with great moral clarity and stood with Ukraine.
Within hours of Trump waiving the sanctions, Chairman French Hill issued a statement saying, "We need to use every tool at our disposal to squeeze Putin until he ends his illegal and barbaric war."
Within 24 hours of the sanctions passing last month, Congressman Steve Womack issued a statement saying, "Combating Russian aggression and supporting Ukraine continues to be vital in protecting not only our own national security but freedom around the globe."
Senators Cotton and Boozman were co-sponsors on the Senate bill. Bruce Westerman criticized President Trump's plan to purchase diesel from Russia because he said it violated the sanctions act.
We know exactly what will happen with sanctions being waived. Waiving sanctions means Russia will have more financial resources to kill innocent Ukrainians.
Civilian casualties in Ukraine are up 59 percent in 2026 (2,570 killed and 15,211 injured) compared to 2025, and September 2026 was 85 percent more deadly than September 2025, according to the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine. This will continue until Putin is stopped.
It is time for President Trump to stop siding with Vladimir Putin and start siding with the Arkansas congressional delegation and Ukraine!
TREVOR DANE
Bentonville
We can effect change
Last April, after 79.5 percent of the electorate voted in Hungary, Victor Orbán, Republicans' favorite despot, was soundly defeated. Péter Magyar won so convincingly that his government is now able to overturn 16 years of tyranny. This would not have happened without the Hungarians' active engagement in the election.
Arkansas has long had a dismal record of voter turnout. Many are too busy or too disillusioned to vote. Many believe that there is no difference between candidates. And when incumbents nationalize the election, airing baseless, ugly culture-war ads, many either believe the lies or simply zone out.
Early voter turnout this year is reaching remarkable highs. Here in Arkansas, that may well be the key to victory for solid candidates offering new ideas for better governance. Ever more Arkansans are struggling because of failed and incompetent actions by both state and federal actors. Widespread tariffs, absurdly expensive presidential vanity projects, and an inexplicably costly forever war are causing great stresses to many Arkansans due to higher costs for diesel, gasoline, groceries, housing, and other necessities. Then there is the moral harm of watching innocent neighbors falsely arrested or much worse.
Nov. 3, Election Day, is upon us. I urge you, if you haven't yet voted, to use your vote to make a difference. Candidates up and down ticket matter. Breaking Sarah's supermajority is key to reining in her power. Some notable new central Arkansas options: Allison Sweatman, Alex Holladay, Andrew Cade Eberly, Cassandra Mayes, Doug Corbett, Cynthia Nations, Beverly Coleman-Keown, and Judge Wendell Griffin. Chris Jones, Hallie Shoffner, and Kelly Grappe will also be a breath of fresh air when elected. Your non-vote indicates you accept the chaotic, inept, and often hateful status quo. If that is not the case, please vote!
MARY REMMEL WOHLLEB
Little Rock
Let voices be heard
It's time to vote. Vote for every time you've been embarrassed by your elected officials' behavior or words. Vote for every time you've felt frustration that you are not represented in our state and country.
Vote for every time you've disagreed with and had to shake your head at what is going on in the halls of government. Vote for every time you've read the morning's latest toxic headline or tweet. Vote for every time you've seen respect, compassion, and dignity stripped away.
You can do it. Vote.
MARY JANE SILVA
Fayetteville