Readers Urge Peaceful Resistance, Condemn Trump's Racist Video

Letters to the Editor address divisive politics, call for impeachment, and oppose mileage-based driving tax

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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In a series of letters to the editor, readers in California's Sonoma County discuss the need for peaceful resistance and unity in the face of division, condemn former President Trump's racist social media post, call for his impeachment, and voice opposition to a proposed state mileage-based driving tax.

Why it matters

These letters reflect the ongoing political tensions and debates within the local community, highlighting concerns over the direction of the country, the conduct of elected officials, and the potential impacts of new policies on residents. They demonstrate how local media can serve as a platform for diverse perspectives and civic engagement.

The details

The letters cover a range of political topics, including a call for a focus on "what we stand for" rather than just "what we oppose," condemnation of Trump's racist social media post, a demand for impeachment proceedings against the former president, and opposition to a proposed state tax based on miles driven. The authors express fears about the current state of the country and government, with one veteran stating he has "never feared my government - until now."

  • The letters were published on February 13, 2026.

The players

Jim Wilder

A resident of Santa Rosa, California, who wrote about the need for peaceful resistance and focusing on shared democratic values.

Sherman Schapiro

A resident of Eureka, California, who called for the impeachment of former President Trump.

Moira Jacobs

A resident of Santa Rosa, California, who opposed a proposed state mileage-based driving tax.

Chris O'Neill

A 71-year-old disabled Marine Corps veteran from Forestville, California, who expressed fear of the current government.

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What they’re saying

“Leaders such as Mohandas Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela showed us another way — one rooted in courage, discipline and love.”

— Jim Wilder (The Press Democrat)

“Let the impeachment proceedings begin.”

— Sherman Schapiro (The Press Democrat)

“Assembly Bill 1421 would push California toward a mileage-based driving tax, which would punish people who must drive farther for work, medical care or daily needs.”

— Moira Jacobs (The Press Democrat)

“I am a 71-year-old disabled Marine Corps veteran, and while I have not always agreed with my government, I have never feared it. Until now.”

— Chris O'Neill (The Press Democrat)

The takeaway

These letters highlight the ongoing political divisions and debates within the local community, with readers expressing concerns over the direction of the country, the conduct of elected officials, and the potential impacts of new policies. They demonstrate the importance of civic engagement and the role of local media in providing a platform for diverse perspectives.