Nothing could divide us more than this situation

During the 2008 elections, I couldn’t support Mike Huckabee because I feared his religious beliefs would divide our country. I believe “united we stand, divided we fall.” As a Christian and a Republican, I support Huckabee’s beliefs, but I know religion often causes division. The United States is made strong by the unification of people of different religions, colors and beliefs.

At the same time, after Barack Obama’s long association with the divisive, hate-filled, anti-white Rev. Jeremiah Wright came to light, I could not support him, either.

Here we are, almost seven years later, with people  protesting across our country, looting, burning, closing down streets, blocking traffic. And many elected officials encourage them by denigrating the men and women who work to protect us. Are there a few bad apples in their group? Of course there are. Do we need some change? Of course we do. But rioting and using someone like Michael Brown as the reason is ludicrous.

Officials’ failure to stand by the men and women in law enforcement resulted in the murder of two Brooklyn officers. This should never have become a race issue, but it is, thanks to the influence of Mayor DeBlasio, Obama, Eric Holder, Al Sharpton and others who use every opportunity to grandstand. They have created this gaping division and discord, which I find heartbreaking and scary.

Especially now, when there are countries like North Korea, Russia and Iran — and terrorist groups like ISIS, growing at an alarming rate — who have pledged to annihilate us and fly their flag from the White House. Are they here now, watching and waiting, while we’re consumed with infighting, waging a war among ourselves?

Do you doubt their ability, their hatred, or their dedication to carry through with their threats? I wonder, who will be the winner?

— Kathryn V. Dews

Salisbury