Letters to the Editor Call for Accountability, Reforms

Readers comment on Justice Department investigations, immigration tactics, and California's one-party dominance.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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In a series of letters to the editor, readers express concerns about the Justice Department's investigation into the killing of Alex Pretti, draw parallels between the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII and contemporary deportations, criticize California's one-party rule, and warn about potential lawsuits over immigration tactics.

Why it matters

These letters highlight growing public frustration with perceived injustices, government overreach, and political dysfunction, reflecting broader societal tensions that could have significant implications for the upcoming midterm elections and the future of American democracy.

The details

The letters cover a range of topics, including the Justice Department's investigation into Pretti's killing, the parallels between the internment of Japanese Americans and contemporary deportations, California's one-party dominance and its associated problems, and the potential for costly lawsuits over immigration tactics.

  • Executive Order 9066, which led to the internment of Japanese Americans, was signed in 1942.
  • The Day of Remembrance for Executive Order 9066 is observed in California on February 19.

The players

Jeff Breithaupt

A Santa Rosa resident who criticizes the Justice Department's investigation into the killing of Alex Pretti.

Jon Yatabe

A Fort Collins, Colorado resident who draws parallels between the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII and contemporary deportations.

Gary Jones

A Santa Rosa resident and independent centrist who criticizes California's one-party dominance and calls for reforms.

Rick Roberts

A Penngrove resident who warns about the potential for costly lawsuits over immigration tactics.

Billi Jeanne Vogan

A Santa Rosa resident who calls on the media to focus more on the role of congressional Republicans in the decline of American democracy.

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What they’re saying

“Shame on the Justice Department and FBI. They should do the right thing and investigate and bring charges against the ICE criminals for murder.”

— Jeff Breithaupt, Santa Rosa resident (The Press Democrat)

“Today, history is repeating with tens of thousands of people who look different being interned in hastily converted unsanitary facilities prior to being deported. We must not let this continue. A tidal wave of voters must restore democracy in November.”

— Jon Yatabe, Fort Collins, Colorado resident (The Press Democrat)

“Insist on reforms: Diversify taxes, cap spending, deliver outcomes. Centrists demand competence that unites us all. Isn't this rooted in single-party rule dominating our state?”

— Gary Jones, Santa Rosa resident and independent centrist (The Press Democrat)

“U.S. District Court Judge Jerry W. Blackwell tells us that the overwhelming majority of people brought before his court in Minnesota by ICE are lawfully present in this country. Does this mean the U.S. faces hundreds of thousands of lawsuits? I think so. Reach into your pockets, my fellow taxpayers.”

— Rick Roberts, Penngrove resident (The Press Democrat)

“Media, start pointing out the partners in crime who are co-conspirators to the cause of America's decline. The elected Republican House and Senate are equally to blame for the demise of democracy at this perilous time. It is they who are on the ballot this year. Start holding them accountable.”

— Billi Jeanne Vogan, Santa Rosa resident (The Press Democrat)

The takeaway

These letters to the editor reflect the deep divisions and frustrations within the American electorate, highlighting the need for greater accountability, transparency, and bipartisanship in addressing the country's pressing issues. As the midterm elections approach, these concerns will likely shape the political landscape and the public's expectations of their elected representatives.