On December 9, 2025, the East Bay Times published a collection of reader letters to the editor that reflect the current state of affairs in our country. These letters touch upon various issues that have been making headlines in recent times – from taxes and hypocrisy to the desperate attempts of some to cling onto power.
One letter, in particular, caught my attention and left me feeling both inspired and hopeful. It read, “Also: No more taxes | Trump’s hypocrisy | Clinging to power | Playing appeaser.” These four seemingly unrelated phrases summed up the sentiments of many Americans and encapsulated the essence of our current political climate.
Let’s start with the first statement – “No more taxes.” This simple yet powerful sentence reflects the collective frustration of taxpayers who have been burdened with increasing taxes year after year. It is a cry for relief, a demand for a fair and just tax system. And I couldn’t agree more. As citizens, we have the right to demand accountability and transparency when it comes to our hard-earned money. We have the right to question our government’s spending and demand that it be used for the betterment of our society.
Moving on to the next statement – “Trump’s hypocrisy.” This is a phrase that has become all too familiar in recent years. Our former president’s actions often contradicted his words, leading to a sense of confusion and disappointment among many. From his questionable policies to his disregard for the truth, President Trump’s hypocrisy has left a mark on our country. But the letters in this collection, written in 2025, are a reminder that we have moved on. We have learned from our mistakes and are now more vigilant than ever. We will not tolerate hypocrisy in our leaders, and we will not let it go unnoticed.
“Clinging to power.” These words invoke a sense of desperation, an unwillingness to let go of something that no longer belongs to us. This phrase is a reflection of those who seek to hold onto power and control at all costs – even at the expense of the greater good. But it is also a reminder to all of us that we must never let our democracy be undermined. We must fight for our rights, our freedom, and our democracy. Those in power may try to cling to it, but the power ultimately resides with the people, and we must never forget that.
And finally, “Playing appeaser.” This statement refers to those who appease others for their own benefit, often at the expense of others. It is a reminder that we must never compromise our values or our principles to appease others. We must always stand up for what is right and just, even if it means going against the tide. Only then can we truly progress as a society.
As I read through these letters, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride and hope for our country. The fact that ordinary citizens took the time to voice their thoughts and opinions shows that the spirit of democracy is alive and well. This collection of letters is a testament to the power of free speech and the importance of an open dialogue.
It also serves as a reminder that we, as a nation, have come a long way and have weathered through many storms. We have learned from our mistakes and have emerged stronger and more united. Together, we have overcome challenges and obstacles, and we will continue to do so in the future.
As we move forward, let us remember these powerful words – “No more taxes | Trump’s hypocrisy | Clinging to power | Playing appeaser.” Let them serve as a reminder of our past and a guide for our future. And let us never forget the power that lies in the hands of the people – a power that can bring about real change and shape the course of our nation.
In conclusion, I applaud the East Bay Times for providing a platform for ordinary citizens to voice their thoughts and concerns. Let us continue to engage in healthy and constructive dialogue, for it is through open communication that we can build a better and brighter future for ourselves and generations to come.






