Letters for Jan. 14, 2026

Why we march

Kudus to Carlos Menendez and his small group of protesters who braved Friday’s weather and hit the streets of Spokane to rally against the killing of a Minneapolis woman by an ICE agent last Wednesday. Few things have changed the course of our history like the use of deadly military force against American civilians, e.g. the Boston Massacre, Kent State.

I write this letter while preparing to join fellow protesters on Saturday at BA Park. One thing I do know from my experience at a No King’s March at the park in October. Law enforcement presence will be marked by officers well-trained in policing the protest. Restraint rather than confrontation. Our federal agencies should take a page from Spokane Police Department’s manual on de-escalation.

Tom Bienemann

Spokane

Show us the good Baumgartner is doing

In his Dec. 28 letter, Dave McCann states that “nothing has changed” at The S-R and it is still intolerant and hateful, regardless of the fact that it prints all news, in addition to letters to the editor, equally. He states that “anything about Congressman Baumgartner is entirely negative in spite of all the good that this man is doing for Eastern Washington.”

There have been letters to the editor in support of Mr. Baumgartner, but the majority of them only gave their opinion and no examples. The other letters always gave examples. Going to the Middle East and Nigeria does not support the 5th Congressional District. McCann did not give any reasons for his support as to what “good this man is doing for Eastern Washington.” I would like to hear his reasons with supportive data and examples as to what good this man is doing for Eastern Washington.

Take a look at the letter to the editor dated Jan. 1 by John Cross who states “The S-R prints fairly” with which I agree. I look forward to seeing McCann’s data and examples of what good Mr. Baumgartner is doing for Eastern Washington and his constituents.

Ellen Halter

Spokane Valley

Support for Baumgartner

Many residents of the 5th Congressional District express strong support for our freshman congressman, recognizing his intelligence, thoughtfulness and articulate communication style. Congressman Baumgartner consistently demonstrates civility and integrity in his conduct, which has earned him the trust and respect of his constituents. His voting record reflects his dedication to supporting families and small businesses, as well as his advocacy for the freedom to choose which cars we drive. He is also committed to advancing improvements in rural health care and supporting farming communities. Furthermore, Congressman Baumgartner demonstrates a deep understanding of local issues, such as raising concerns about the administration’s use of tariffs that could negatively impact local agriculture interests.

There is growing concern among community members that The Spokesman-Review only represents the views of a small segment of the population, particularly those who oppose President Trump and are quick to assign blame. This perception has led to questions about whether the broader community’s perspectives are accurately reflected in local media coverage.

It is important for the community to come together and work toward the re-election of Congressman Baumgartner. By doing so, we can ensure that Eastern Washington continues to benefit from his excellent representation and advocacy on behalf of its residents.

As a daily subscriber to The Spokesman-Review, I value staying informed and will continue my subscription. However, I respectfully request that the publication make efforts to reduce partisan rhetoric, so that all viewpoints within our community are given fair consideration.

Earl Moore

Spokane