09-03-2025
Trump cuts cost a Raleigh nonprofit 30 valuable workers. How is this efficiency?
Thirty people were laid off at the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants in Raleigh where I volunteered. They were serving folks who are new to the country. They were dedicated and hardworking. Now refugees are left with fewer resources, and hardworking Americans are without jobs.
How is this efficiency? Our present government seems Hell bent on destroying the infrastructure that has served our country well. This is creating chaos and destruction. Meanwhile, Congress does nothing. I appeal to them to stand up for the American people.
Elizabeth Norval, Raleigh
Senator Thom Tillis delivered an impassioned speech damning Russia's murderous conduct in Ukraine. Nonetheless, he reaffirmed his support for President Donald Trump's national security policies. These issues are not esoteric given the North Carolina's large military-connected population.
North Carolinians deserve to know does Tillis support the annexation of Greenland? Of Canada? Is he concerned about the firing of senior officers? What of DOGE cuts to soft power agencies, the defense workforce, and the VA?
In response to the latter issue, it would be enlightening to know whether Tillis ruminates over the potential effects to N.C. veterans who served during the height of the Global War on Terrorism.
For the military-connected, these matters are real — decisions will disproportionately affect their lives. But, the national security decisions are not limited to these cohorts. There will be economic and personal impacts across the state. North Carolinians deserve to know where Tillis stands with the same passionate clarity.
Robert Runyans, Raleigh
Having read that state House Speaker Destin Hall through House Bill 92 wants to take up to 10% of teacher and state retiree funds to invest in cryptocurrency is shocking. North Carolina has one of the highest rated pension plans in the U.S. It earned that by careful investments.
The plan is funded by the state employees, not by taxes. The pension plan belongs to retired state employees. Legislators should keep their hands off. Cryptocurrency is not known to be sound. Leave my money alone!
Carolyn Davis, Raleigh
The U.S. government has not paid invoices to USAID partners since the inauguration for work under Congress-approved contracts done before the inauguration. Thousands of NC jobs are at risk as firms face downsizing or closure. I was furloughed despite a two-decade career with USAID partners.
Firms in NC are fourth largest among partners in the US, and we are facing the impacts of the U.S. not paying its bills. Financial institutions are now questioning whether the government will honor its obligations, increasing discount rates for credit. Banks have lost confidence in America's reliability to pay its bills. Consequences will spread.
This isn't partisan. It's about contract law and honoring commitments. When the government breaks promises, we suffer. The work was approved by Congress, done in good faith, and the government needs to pay its bills. Call your senators today. Demand the Republican administration meets its obligations. Jobs, businesses and financial security in NC are on the line.
Kirsten Weeks, Durham
The meeting between President Volodymyr Zelensky, President Trump and Vice President JD Vance was a horrifying embarrassment for our country. Zelensky maintained dignity and poise while the other two berated him like schoolyard bullies.
Trump's language became unhinged and Vance played along. I imagine Vance's children watching his shameful behavior, and I mourn the loss of dignity and the rise of disgusting cruelty in the White House. Republican leaders continue to show they lack backbones to honor their vows to our Constitution and stand up for humanity.
Shame on them all.
Sarah Carrier, Chapel Hill
I cannot believe my vote in the state Supreme Court race is still in question. I have voted consistently in the past four elections at my designated polling station without issue. However, my vote is now being questioned. This concerns me as I have diligently followed all procedures.
Why is my vote is being scrutinized? I have not been provided any information as to how to resolve the issue. I voted in person and did not have any questions about my ballot. I want to ensure my voice is heard and my rights are upheld.
Lihn Calhoun, Chapel Hill
