Hate has no place in America

To the Editor:

I was born and raised in Orem, Utah. I was there the day Charlie Kirk was killed. Growing up in Orem, we didn’t even lock our doors at night. It felt like a place where this kind of violence could never happen. Sadly, today even the safest communities are not immune to evil.

The murder of Charlie Kirk, the assassination of Brian Thompson, the attempted assassination of Justice Brett Kavanaugh, and the attempts on President Trump’s life are all reminders that political violence is becoming far too common. Disagreement can never justify murder or intimidation.

I also worry about leaders like John Fetterman, who have faced intense criticism from within their own party for taking positions that don’t always align with the party’s mainstream. Regardless of our political beliefs, we should reject the idea that people deserve threats, intimidation, or violence because they think differently.

Hate has no place in America. We should be able to debate passionately, disagree respectfully, and still recognize each other’s humanity. Every political leader, from every party, should speak clearly and consistently against political violence whenever it occurs. Differing opinions, even if offensive, never justify taking someone’s life. We all need to speak out. Are you listening, Dems?

Scott Kiser
Village of Oak Hollow