Criticism of Vindman seems designed to intimidate witnesses

The attempts by Republican congressmen to impugn Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman‘s patriotism have no rational basis.

The White House already has admitted the crux of his testimony, that President Donald Trump asked the president of the Ukraine to announce publicly an investigation into Joe Biden on long-disproved corruption charges.

The only purpose seems to threaten later witnesses, “If we can do this to a decorated veteran, imagine what we could do to you.”

Frank Palmer, Edgewater

Clear and present danger

There was a time when the GOP laid claim to being the protector of democracy. The GOP labeled the Democrats as being too lenient on the threat Russia posed to the United States. Well, those days are behind us. Now, the GOP is more interested in their personal interest than the clear and present threat Russia poses to the security of the United States.

The GOP has become the “Manchurian candidate.”

Warren Rodgers Jr., Matteson

L’etat, c’est moi

Republicans on the House Intelligence Committee conflate loyalty to the Constitution of the United States with loyalty to President Donald Trump. It seems they would welcome a proclamation by President Trump claiming “L’etat, c’est moi.” Is that what they really want?

Bob Barth, Edgewater

Obey the same laws

Regarding your editorial of Nov. 20, “Let’s invest and make Chicago streets safer for cyclists,” I certainly am in favor of safer streets. And I certainly feel sorrow for cyclists who are killed or injured. However, I must add that the cyclists themselves have to consider their role in safety. I constantly see bikers ignore red lights and stop signs. They often wear headphones so even if honked at, they probably wouldn’t hear. If they are going to ride on city streets, they should obey the same laws as the cars and take some responsibility for their own safety.

Deborah Donberg, Edgewater