Letter to the editor: Setting the record straight on issues

Dear Editor,

The claim that suspending habeas corpus only affects illegal aliens ignores the broader reality -- such a move impacts everyone under U.S. jurisdiction, threatening a fundamental safeguard against unlawful detention.

Assertions that illegal immigration is the primary driver of fentanyl trafficking are misleading. The Drug Enforcement Agency confirms that most fentanyl enters the U.S. through legal ports of entry, often smuggled by U.S. citizens using concealed compartments in vehicles and commercial goods.

Some argue that Democrats push lenient immigration policies to expand their voter base. However, federal law prohibits noncitizens from voting in national elections, and documented cases of illegal voting remain rare. Claims that undocumented immigrants receive debit cards, cell phones and luxury hotel stays while American citizens suffer in tent cities lack substantial evidence. While some aid programs provide temporary shelter, most undocumented immigrants do not qualify for federal benefits like welfare and food assistance.

Homelessness, while growing, is tied more to housing costs and economic instability than immigration policies alone. Some states have criminalized tent encampments, further worsening conditions for those affected.

Regarding political division, attributing national rage to one party oversimplifies a complex issue. While some have claimed Capitol Police Lt. Michael Byrd was awarded a medal for shooting Ashli Babbitt during the January 6 Capitol attack, no record exists of such an honor. The Capitol Police ruled the shooting was lawful, stating Byrd’s actions likely prevented harm to lawmakers and staff.

Finally, the Trump administration’s pledge not to cut Medicare contradicts recent congressional actions that could lead to over $500 billion in cuts over the next decade. While Republicans cite fraud as justification, no major fraud-related charges have been filed.

Public policy discussions must be based on facts, not fear-driven narratives. Americans deserve truthful, well-informed dialogue, not misleading political rhetoric.

Vicente Garcia

Lovell