Readers Urge Peaceful US-Cuba Relations, More Election Coverage

Letters to the Editor address Cuba policy, Fulton County ballot seizure, and fundraising for public schools

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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In a series of letters to the editor, readers discuss the need for the US and Cuba to coexist peacefully, call for more media coverage of the FBI's seizure of ballots in Fulton County, Georgia, and suggest creative fundraising efforts to support underfunded public schools in Sonoma County, California.

Why it matters

The letters highlight ongoing political tensions between the US and Cuba, concerns about potential election fraud claims, and the challenges facing public education funding - all issues that have significant implications for local communities and the broader political landscape.

The details

The first letter argues that US policies toward Cuba, including recent measures by the Trump administration, are cruel and unjustified, calling for the US to 'open up' relations with the island nation and allow Cubans to 'manage their own affairs.' The second letter expresses alarm at the FBI's seizure of ballots in Fulton County, Georgia, which the letter writer sees as a potential precursor to future election fraud claims. The third letter proposes creative fundraising ideas, such as soliciting donations from local corporations and hosting concerts, to address the financial challenges facing the Santa Rosa school district.

  • The letter about Cuba references a recent article published on January 31, 2026.
  • The letter about the Fulton County ballot seizure references events that occurred on January 29, 2026.

The players

Greg Carr

A Sonoma resident who recently visited Cuba and argues that the US should coexist peacefully with the island nation.

Chris Carpenter

A Petaluma resident who is concerned about the lack of media coverage regarding the FBI's seizure of ballots in Fulton County, Georgia.

Kate E. Black

A Santa Rosa resident who suggests creative fundraising efforts to support the underfunded Santa Rosa school district.

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What they’re saying

“Just leave us alone. It's time to open up U.S.-Cuban relations, prevent a deepening humanitarian crisis and allow the Cuban people to manage their own affairs without heavy-handed interference.”

— Greg Carr (The Press Democrat)

“Trump is planting the seed for seizing ballots from the 2026 midterm election under the guise that there is fraudulent activity.”

— Chris Carpenter (The Press Democrat)

“How about fundraisers, asking people at checkout for donations to schools, concerts with famous local musicians willing to donate the proceeds to our schools? Why are we silent and helpless here?”

— Kate E. Black (The Press Democrat)

The takeaway

These letters highlight the ongoing political tensions and challenges facing local communities, from US-Cuba relations to election integrity concerns and public school funding. They call for more open dialogue, media coverage, and creative solutions to address these complex issues.