Readers comments: May 16, 2025

Re-engaging with the news
Dear editor:
I’m with John Pixley [“Tuning in — in a small town,” April 18] and his neighbor: “Turn off the TV.”
I quit watching the news after studying it in college. However recent administration’s actions are of grave concern.
I was able to go to Washington, D.C. this March with the California Retired Teachers Association (We protect teacher’s pensions). Forty five retired educators visited 50-plus Congresspersons (or their aides).
We were there the day child nutrition was cut. When I got home I started using Instagram to follow the news. Senator Schiff makes a daily video as do other Congresspersons. Age 67 I’m also getting my news from YouTube from Senator Whitehouse, Norma Torres among others. I look forward to suggestions of Republicans who are worth tuning in to, for a balanced perspective.
Kelly Vanderlan
Claremont

On ‘the grifter in chief’
Dear editor:
In my wildest dreams I never would have imagined that the holder of the highest office in the nation would have the temerity to turn the presidency into “America’s Home Shopping Network.” Here’s a man who would know the price of everything and the value of nothing, including the sacred trust connected with that office.
It’s all for sale. Grand opening. You want a Tesla? Well, just stroll down the White House driveway and pick the color you want. Oh, and did we mention the new Donald J. Trump meme coin? At just a little over $13 each you can own your own keepsake of the ruination that America has come to. Buy lots and lots and you might get a free dinner with the most ignorant, opinionated dinner host ever. Lots and lots more gets you a visit to the White House. I was surprised that my wife turned down a gift of a Melania meme coin for Mother’s Day. But folks, you can phone in your order now. They’re going fast.
And all the money goes right into the grifter-in-chief’s pocket. One buyer has already purchased $148 million worth of Trump coins. Really hoping for that White House dinner. It will be the most expensive Big Mac he ever ate. And how many foreign actors are investing in this grift to curry favor and make deals? Who knows. It’s a black box.
But it looks like he might get a huge jumbo jet for his library for his efforts. Nice to have friends in rich places. BTW, did you get a plane, or even a return call? Buy more coins. They’re the new hot item. Now, where’s that Emoluments Clause?
John C. Forney
Claremont

Dem Club encourages new members
Dear editor:
In this era of uncertainty and chaos, where political discourse is shouted down by division and misinformation, it is more crucial than ever for citizens to engage meaningfully in the democratic process. That is why I urge my fellow Claremonters to join me in supporting our local Democratic Club.
Our communities thrive when we advocate for our shared values. Nearly every day we find these values challenged in the chaotic actions of our current administration. The Democratic Club of Claremont provides a space to educate, organize, and empower individuals to become active participants in shaping a better future locally, statewide, and across the nation. It serves as a vehicle for civic engagement — hosting discussions, supporting candidates who represent our ideals, and supporting equal rights and opportunities for us all.
The Democratic Club of Claremont helps us combat misinformation, engage in constructive dialogue, and stand up for policies that protect human rights, environmental sustainability, and economic fairness for all. Together, our involvement strengthens the democratic fabric that holds our society together.
Democracy does not sustain itself — it requires dedication, effort, and advocacy. Follow us on social media and add your name to our mailing list. Grab a sign as we join with like-minded groups to fight against the constant stream of injustices we face, make calls to support legislation, or show up to city council meetings to let your voice be heard. And join us at our monthly meetings. Due to Memorial Day, our May meeting is on Monday, May 19 at 7 p.m. at the Napier Center, 660 Avery Rd. You can find more information about our future events on our website, demsofclaremont.org.
Let’s take action today, because a passive electorate is a vulnerable one.
Lee Kane
Claremont

Democrats to blame for oil refinery closures
Dear editor:
Hot on the heels of Phillips 66 announcing the closure of their Wilmington refinery by the end of this year, Valero has just announced they will be closing their Bay area refinery in Benicia by April 2026.
So, say goodbye to yet more gasoline refining capacity, and hello to even higher gasoline prices in California. No, not because of oil company price gouging, but all because of the Sacramento Democrats’ mania for persecuting oil companies and driving their production facilities, and their jobs, out of California.
This is the idiocy we get out of a legislature that has a supermajority of Democrats.
Douglas Lyon
Claremont