Border wall a danger to endangered species
Why, oh, why is the mainstream press not covering these important stories? They should be front and center. Past polls show that voters strongly support the endangered species act.
The border wall will create an environmental disaster. Do Republicans approve of causing the extinction of endangered species? Does the president approve of causing species extinction? Do his children approve of causing species extinction?
President Trump’s border wall threatens 93 endangered and threatened species, including jaguars, ocelots, Mexican gray wolves and cactus ferruginous pygmy owls, according to a study by the Center for Biological Diversity.
American voters oppose building a wall on the Mexican border, 54 percent to 43 percent, and say the wall is not necessary to improve border security, according to a Quinnipiac University National Poll released Dec. 18.
Opposition to the wall is 57 percent against and 40 percent for it, among women, and 90 percent against compared to 8 percent for it among Democrats.
By a wider margin, 62 percent to 34 percent, American voters oppose shutting down the government because of funding differences over the wall.
If there is a shutdown, 51 percent of voters would blame President Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress more, as 37 percent would blame Democrats in Congress more. Independent voters would blame Trump and Republicans more than Democrats 48 percent to 39 percent, respectively.
American voters say, 81 percent compared to 17 percent, that border security is an important issue.
In closing, I’ll leave you with these remarks by Tim Malloy, assistant director of the Quinnipiac University Poll.
“A blunt holiday greeting card for President Donald Trump: Don’t build a border wall and don’t shut down the government to try to get it done.”
Gail Jackson
Waikoloa
Think of pets
when you celebrate
Please consider your animal friends this season, and throughout the year!
Fireworks are festive, but very distressing to pets and wildlife. They should be limited to two calendar days per year. Pet owners can prepare by keeping pets in a safe, familiar place, provide loving reassurance, and if needed, administer sedatives prescribed from their local veterinarian.
Call police dispatch (935-3311) to report the excessive use of illegal explosives in your neighborhood.
Together, we can enjoy a peaceful and safe holiday season (and beyond!) while minimizing stress to all beings.
Keoni Purugganan
Kona
