President's Divisive Speech Draws Criticism

Letter writer calls for politicians to speak out against inflammatory rhetoric

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A letter to the editor in the Grand Forks Herald criticizes President Trump's State of the Union speech, arguing that he descended into his usual pattern of using harsh, personal insults against Democratic politicians and anyone he sees as an enemy. The letter writer calls for politicians who will speak out against this type of divisive speech and work to reach compromises for the good of the people.

Why it matters

The president's use of derogatory language and personal attacks against political opponents is seen by many as contributing to the growing partisan divide in the country. This letter reflects concerns that such rhetoric is undermining democratic norms and the ability of elected officials to work together constructively.

The details

In the letter, the writer describes specific insults and derogatory language used by President Trump, including calling Democratic lawmakers "sick people," "crazy," and accusing them of "destroying our country." The letter cites a history of Trump using harsh personal attacks and derogatory nicknames against Democratic politicians like Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, Hillary Clinton, Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, Nancy Pelosi, and Chuck Schumer.

  • President Trump delivered the State of the Union address on March 4, 2026.

The players

President Trump

The 45th President of the United States who has a history of using harsh, personal insults against Democratic politicians and others he sees as opponents.

Lee Murdock

A resident of Grand Forks, North Dakota who wrote a letter to the editor criticizing the president's divisive rhetoric.

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What they’re saying

“These people are crazy, I'm telling you.”

— President Trump (Grand Forks Herald)

“Democrats are destroying our country, but we've stopped it just in the nick of time.”

— President Trump (Grand Forks Herald)

“We need politicians who will speak out against this type of speech and are willing to consider opposing positions of others without defaming them.”

— Lee Murdock, Grand Forks resident (Grand Forks Herald)

What’s next

The letter writer calls for politicians to speak out against the president's divisive rhetoric and work to find compromises for the good of the people.

The takeaway

This letter highlights the growing concerns about the president's use of inflammatory language and personal attacks against political opponents, which many see as contributing to the partisan divide and undermining democratic norms. It calls for a return to more civil and constructive political discourse.