NC Supreme Court

Liberals must be getting pretty nervous about the upcoming elections. In the Oct. 26 Observer, UNC law professor Gene Nichol suggests the race for two NC Supreme Court seats is really all about abortion preserving and democracy. I seriously doubt that the four excellent candidates for the two seats at stake believe that, or that they’ve even been asked anything about those subjects during their campaigns. Rather, it appears to me that, fearing a Republican “tide,” Nichol is tossing out whatever canard he believes might sway folks to vote for Democrats on Nov. 8. Good luck on that.

Richard Vinroot, Charlotte

Mark Robinson

Regarding “Lt. gov. mocks attack that sent Pelosi’s husband to hospital,” (Nov. 2):

I can understand why some people dislike Nancy Pelosi. But to spew vitriol about the attack on her husband is outrageous. To make “hammer” jokes, imply a gay encounter, and banter conspiracy theories about the attack is really low. But now, our lieutenant governor, Mark Robinson, has joined the fray. Come on! You are an official. Act like one. Show some class! To be honest, I am afraid to think he could be our next governor.

Ray Lyles, Charlotte

A plea for voters

As an octogenarian, I was born during the Depression. I’ve lived through several periods of inflation and recessions. But, we have only one democracy. I plead with voters to put aside transitory problems for candidates who will work at keeping our democracy strong. Political affiliations should be put aside in this election.

Diana Drye, New London

Staying true

A majority of Americans support better gun regulations, a woman’s right to choose, and are aware of who can’t stop lying about who lost the last presidential election. The question is, will they remember this as they vote?

Vincent Keipper, Concord

Campaign donors

Regarding “Last pre-election reports show who’s giving to Budd, Beasley,” (Oct. 30):

In the Oct. 30 article listing contributors to Senate candidates Tedd Budd and Cheri Beasley, it showed two of the top three Beasley contributors are universities — Duke University and University of North Carolina. Did they contribute to Budd as well? If they did it must have been in far smaller amounts.

It’s bad enough that an institution of higher education shows, through political contributions, it has a political bias. It’s worse when that institution is a public university — raising the question of whether it is using public tax dollars to support their favored candidate.

John Shea Jr., Charlotte

Sen. Thom Tillis

Sen. Thom Tillis’ endorsement of Ted Budd is concerning for many reasons. My biggest concern is this: Budd was one of 143 traitors that signed a document voiding the votes of American citizens. And what makes this action most egregious is that it was after Trump’s ragtag hooligans assaulted our capitol.

There was no evidence that the election should not have been certified. But that didn’t stop Budd or the rest. None of the signers should be able to hold office in my view, and I am surprised no action was taken.

Supporting a traitor is not a great look for Tillis. He needs to reconsider or resign.

Jacqueline Briscoe, Hickory

Congress

It seems that no matter what political party is in power, the continual bickering that goes on the US House and Senate is just so counterproductive. It’s time that those who serve do so for their constituency, not the party. People all over our country are getting tired and upset that nothing is really getting done in congress. It’s time for leaders in both parties to step up and stop wasting their time slashing the other side. Please, I beg you, let’s get this country on its feet again.

Jeff Kanner, Tega Cay

Student success

To improve students’ achievement test scores, schools must communicate — to students and the community — that academic achievement is the No. 1 priority of the school or system. This must be proven by actions, not by words. When students or visitors enter a school building, there must be a significant emphasis upon the academic achievements of former students. Most schools have a trophy case celebrating successes in extra curricular activities, but little to no recognition for student’s academic successes, such as passing AP exams.

Walter Hopkins, Mount Holly

NC hogs

In regards to “Pork industry lawsuit draws new attention to cruel conditions in North Carolina” (Oct 30 Opinion), I’m so glad to see an article that shines a spotlight on the cruelty pregnant pigs in the pork industry routinely endure. Not only does confining pigs in tiny, metal cages cause massive physical and mental suffering for the animals, but it’s also bad for public health.

Locking animals in conditions like this has been shown to be a threat to food safety, and the United Nations labeled the extreme confinement of farm animals a future pandemic risk. Ten states have banned these inhumane cages, and North Carolina producers should move away from them, too.

Kristen Moyer, Belmont