There really are times when truth can be stranger than fiction. Former U.S. President Donald Trump miraculously avoids assassination by turning his head at the right moment, a huge legal victory concerning the handling of classified information follows two days later and all this during a politically perilous time for President Joe Biden. Are the stars aligned for Trump?
Regardless of how we feel about Donald Trump, the whole world will have to deal with the possibility of his winning the next U.S. presidential election. His popularity is puzzling to many. A big part of dealing with him is first to understand why so many Americans favour him. He is not alone in claiming that other countries take advantage of the U.S., whether that be on military or commercial matters.
There is now an opportunity for the rest of the world to try and understand Americans better and we will all be safer we do. They are not angels, nor are they devils. They really are like the rest of us.
Peter Mannistu, Calgary
Where’s the accountability?
What many Herald readers have in common is the frustration that there appears to be no accountability whatsoever when it comes to city infrastructure matters. Whether it concerns the waterline or Green Line LRT, bureaucrats and managers provide explanations that defy engineering logic and/or common sense. This needs to stop.
It is time for city council to assign top-notch people to be in charge of critical infrastructure affairs. Their mandate should be clear along with specific responsibilities as well as have means for holding them accountable. That is, when performance targets are not met, there need to be consequences. Taxpayers are fed up with the smoke-and-mirrors approach that puts the blame anywhere except where it ought to be.
To the 60 per cent of voters who stayed home at the 2021 elections: remember this when the 2025 polls come around.
Theo van Besouw, Calgary
Stampede provides connection
Congratulations to the Stampede committee for a great event – a much-needed success. However, I wonder if we, as a city, need to rebrand the event as “The Greatest Outdoor Music and Mammals Show?”
The draw was a great variety of music and less on cowboy culture. This was really what it was about – connection to one another and the land. I appreciated the citywide connection and the grounds events were first-rate. If we can always have perfect weather that helps too!
John Pentland, Calgary
Constituents feel ignored
I read with interest, the letter on July 9 that addressed the inability to get a response from the Ward 8 councillor, Courtney Walcott. I had the same experience. I sent a request to engage regarding the zoning changes that were being approved by the City of Calgary and the consequent outcomes. Instead of Councillor Walcott responding, I received an e-mail from a policy and communications advisor that schooled me on the rights of property owners to apply to rezone or redevelop their property.
I would also note that in the Herald on Feb. 7, 2024, Mayor Gondek stated: “Calgarians who have concerns with local government should reach out to council.” That statement implies that council is responsive to their constituents. That has not been my experience.
Debra Morgan, Calgary