U.S. Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, whose district in Congress includes Philipstown, attended a Town Hall meeting at the Desmond-Fish Library on Jan. 8 (Progressives See Glimmer of Hope, Despite Alarm Over Trump, Jan. 13). The turnout was overwhelming as the community expressed its fears and anger with the incoming federal administration. I heard, “He’s not my president! We must not normalize the direction that’s being taken.” Hearing that strong clear statement, I felt a renewed optimism for our country.

Maloney stated that we all need to help as a team — and to stay in contact with him. It was clear that he cares about his constituents and is responsive to our needs.

I am grateful to Eric Stark for arranging this Town Hall (possibly a first?) and that Assemblywoman Sandy Galef, Planned Parenthood and an impassioned talk about climate change were also included.

It’s never too late to express our gratitude and support for those elected officials who refuse to attend the inauguration on Jan. 20. I would be proud to see U.S. Senators Kristen Gillibrand and Chuck Schumer and Maloney among the elected officials who will not attend.

The president was not elected by a majority of the voters, and his every decision, whether an appointment, repeal of the Affordable Care Act or in foreign affairs, is severely damaging our country. Lack of public support and acclaim is one of the few actions that affect him.

Betsy Calhoun, Garrison

Editor’s note: Seven members of Congress from New York, not including Maloney, did not attend the inauguration.

Behind The Story

Type: Opinion

Opinion: Advocates for ideas and draws conclusions based on the author/producer’s interpretation of facts and data.

This piece is by a contributor to The Current who is not on staff. Typically this is because it is a letter to the editor or a guest column.