Reader asserts Mike Johnson's Christian principles don't match his support for Trump

Letters to the Editor

New speaker can't square support for Trump with Bible

It is simply not possible for me to take (newly-appointed speaker of the House) Mike Johnson’s proclamations of his Christianity seriously. His "Bible-based" philosophy prioritizes the ugly, the restrictive, the self-righteous, the punitive portions and somehow overlooks the parts about:

  • Handling one’s religiosity (Matthew 6:5-8);

  • Judging not, lest ye be judged (Matthew 7:1);

  • Abundant life (John 10:10);

  • Loving thy neighbor (Leviticus 19:18), (Matthew 22:36-40);

  • Compassion (Ephesians 4:32);

  • Caring for the "least of these" (Matthew 25:40);

  • Grace and mercy (Colossians 3:13).

And the most abhorrent thing of all: he wants Donald Trump to be the President of the United States — the leader of the Free World — the worthy role model for young folks everywhere. Am I actually expected to believe that support for the cruel, xenophobic, misogynistic, abusive, dishonest, dismissive, bigoted ex-president in any way suits his "Christian" principles?

The way I read it, Donald Trump may be forgiven, must be loved as a creature of God, must be extended Grace — but he must not be exalted to the highest position in the country. And — yes — those who support him are absolutely endorsing the way he is living his life!

Debby Baugh, Springfield

Tell Christian County what you think about Holder Road plans

My neighbor and I have been involved in trying to keep Holder Road in Christian County from becoming a "highway" for some time. In 2021, over several days, we had data collected about the traffic on the road (traffic count, speed data, times of heaviest traffic) and, in March 2022, sent that information, attached to a letter detailing our problem issues and suggesting simple but effective solutions, to those who were best able to help us. We have had ZERO response from those in government we've elected to serve and help us.

Neither of us gives up easily. We again complained to the new Presiding Commissioner Lynn Morris, Sheriff Brad Cole, and Christian County Highway Department Miranda Beadles. The Highway Department got back to me and, following several complaints and emails, did a shorter study of our road.

Beadles has informed us that a meeting has been scheduled for Nov. 29 at 10 a.m. to obtain our input. It will take place at the county’s Resource Management Building, 1106 W. Jackson St., Ozark.

We certainly hope as many of you as possible with interests in Holder Road will attend with us on Nov. 29 at 10 a.m. to show how serious we are about eliminating the problems we deal with daily WITHOUT encouraging more and faster traffic (which we believe is where the county is headed), but know the timing may not work for all. If you can, please make the effort to be there and be counted.

Janice Markley, Clever

Revenge-obsessed GOP continues to smear Biden

Trump supporting Congressional members are attempting to smear Joe Biden prior to the election. Marjorie Taylor-Greene published a photo of a cancelled check on X, formerly known as Twitter. She claimed it is proof that Joe Biden received a kick-back from China. It’s all speculative assumption, the check notes repayment of loan. They have implied $40,000 was Joe’s cut. Chairman Comer gives frequent updates on Fox as he attempts to tie Hunter’s 7-10 year ago business ventures to Joe Biden. This is a calculated strategic political ploy.

Foreign agents must register and there are rules, but it is not illegal for Biden’s brother James or any wealthy U.S. entity to buy into foreign investments. China investment conglomerates buy USA companies and farmland. Even the Trump family has foreign investments.

Former President Trump’s penalty trial is in the news. His family was charged with alleged fraudulent business practices. He has expensive lawyers arguing that he is innocent. Joe Biden will have to wait for the GOP to impeach him before lawyers can argue for his innocence. Meanwhile his accusers get by with nasty innuendoes.

This group of Biden accusers appeared on Fox media with Hannity: Mike Johnson, R-LA; James Comer, R-KY; Chip Roy R-TX; Elise Stefanik R-NY; Jim Jordan R-OH; Steve Scalise R-LA. Several other Trump-supporting Congress members have made public accusations.

Of course, MAGA fans love this because they want to believe what they hear when it fits into their overall belief system. Taylor-Greene and her off-the-wall assertions are not a credible source.

If Republicans would stop voting for these revenge-obsessed individuals maybe the conservative party could get back to being the party we respect and admire. If it will inspire you to act — new House Speaker Mike Johnson’s next project is to cut Social Security, the major income for the elderly.

Norma Salchow, Springfield

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Letters explore faith, politics, Christian County's Holder Road plans

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