I agree with much of the My View article (River Reporter, May 7-13), stating that words mean something. I do not agree that if my words make others resort to violence, I have crossed a line, making me unworthy of the “honor of expressing the liberty” of free speech. That act of violence does not fall on me. 

First, freedom of speech is a constitutional right protected by the First Amendment. Freedom to use words by Americans, both left- and right-leaning, is important in a free society. This freedom of speech ensures that even uncomfortable and unpopular ideas can be aired, contributing to an open society. If my words do not agree with the current administration’s actions, it does not make me less of an American.  

Conversely, the Trump administration uses words as dog whistles. We have all heard ad nauseam the President use words like “woke,” “radical left,” “Marxists,” “communists,” “human garbage,” “traitors,” “snowflakes,” “owning the libs,” “vermin” and other dehumanizing language to attack his opponents on the political left. 

Secondly, actions speak louder than words. We are skeptical of the intent when words are used by the current administration lobbying for “voter ID” and wanting fair elections, then it takes actions to install massive gerrymandering schemes—usually only held on census years—to arrange voting districts to favor their party in power. This is not the American Way.

Saying words like “protect the men in blue” rings empty when 1,500 members of a violent mob that injured 140 police officers when they attacked the Capitol were pardoned, many of whom pleaded guilty to an offense. This doesn’t sound like the American Way.

Saying that Veterans are important, then DOGE cuts funding for their special needs and program managers is definitely not the American Way.

Saying “a whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again” in regards to the people of Iran is not the American Way. Neither is denying the children, now adults, who survived the Epstein debacle their day in court, with Trump saying it is “really time for the country to get on with something else.” 

Assassination attempts are a result of a sick mind. Violence against anyone in office is wrong, like the 700 death threats that Marjorie Taylor Greene received since her split with Donald Trump. 

I too agree with the writer that the hyperbole has crossed the line and it is time to dial it back. I just think he is looking in the wrong direction. The side that marches peacefully for change across the country is not the problem. 

Paul N. Kowalczyk is a proud American who lives in Wayne County, PA.