Okay, so here we go. I’m 70, right? Been around the block with this protesting thing. I mean, way back, 2003-ish, when George W. decided Iraq was the place to be—yeah, I was right there at the Westwood Federal Building. Picture this: me, holding a sign saying “George W. Bush, the Real Doctor Evil.” Total Austin Powers vibe, right? Those movies were everywhere back then.
Anyway, I’m standing there, and folks are driving by on Wilshire Boulevard. Some folks flash a grin, clearly thinking it’s Bush fan club time. Then, boom! They read the rest, and it’s all about the middle fingers and choice words. Like, instant flip.
So, I’m reading this column by Jonah Goldberg—mind you, not something I do often. He’s got this piece called “Trump deploys, protesters respond. This will not end well,” from June 9. Surprisingly, I’m nodding. I mean, mostly. He talks about Trump sending in the National Guard, saying it’s not illegal yet, which, okay, maybe? But I’m with him on how violent protests are just shooting ourselves in the foot. Seriously, violence is Trump’s best friend in these scenarios.
Listen, Trump. What can I say? Not a fan. Probably the most vile president I’ve seen—and I’ve seen a few. More reasons to protest against him than I can count. And I’ve marched before, and you bet I’ll march again. But here’s the kicker: it’s gotta be peaceful. That’s the way to put a dent in his tyranny. Keep it cool, folks.
Ray McKown, Torrance (just in case you were wondering where this rant came from)
