Anti-Trump protesters gathered outside the Nevada Capitol in Carson City on Feb. 5, 2025.
Photo by Scott Neuffer.
Democracy in action
Editor:
On Feb. 5, a peaceful nationwide protest took place in the capital cities of all 50 states, including Carson City. Hundreds of people lined the streets in front of the Capitol, protesting the Trump administration and Elon Musk’s implementation of Project 2025, along with other unlawful policies.
It was an incredible display of democracy in action. People from all walks of life showed up to make their voices heard, standing together to push back against policies that threaten our rights and values. This is what democracy looks like—citizens stepping up, speaking out, and holding leaders accountable.
At a time when so much is at stake, these protests sent a clear message: We are paying attention, we care, and we will not be silent.
Beth Mancl
Genoa
Not really a Democracy
Editor:
To those protesters headlined in Saturday’s Appeal, be rest assured, it’ll be OK, you’ll see. The only “going back” will be to common sense and normality. Your protest is based on heartfelt feeling and not the end results that this administration is making a Herculean effort to accomplish.
No, Elon Musk was not elected by you, but he was appointed for you by President Trump…to expose and cut over $1 trillion being spent by our government agencies on absolutely nothing to do with bettering our lives here in America.
His being a billionaire poses no threat of “taking over the country,” but having the resources and expertise necessary to restore accountability and responsibility in Washington DC. What part of saving your hard earned tax dollars from waste, fraud, and abuse do you not love? = Trillions back in our pockets.
This protest is typical of the emotion that drives Democrats. Perhaps they don’t even know what a democracy is. The United States of America is not a democracy but a constitutional republic: ie. a nation in which the supreme power rests in all the citizens entitled to vote and is exercised by the people they elect to represent them. Democrats and Republicans will “work together” by accepting the fact that President Trump won by a majority of us Americans - for a good reason.
A democracy on the other hand, recognizes social equality; no distinctions or privileges. That is not what built this nation. It was free market capitalism where all parties compete to ensure the best and most competitive project emerges and ensures a fair democratic process!
The anti-immigrant criticism in the article should be clarified in that it is Illegal immigration out of control… President Trump has clearly stated that immigrants are welcome as ever into the U.S. - through the same legal process of many of our great ancestors.
Those protesting at our Capitol last Wednesday have that right, but they cannot be trusted; for they have interpreted the good being done into something only they can understand. But it’ll be OK. You’ll see.
Joy Uhart
Minden
What is happening?
Editor:
There has been a lot of activity in the two weeks since Trump’s inauguration, but is it activity that is going to make America great? As Project 2025 is implemented, and questionable priorities acted on, we’ve seen chaos, confusion and poorly thought-out and executed executive orders that are going to impact the country and have consequences here in Douglas County.
The White House issued a federal funding freeze Monday night (1/27) causing disruption and confusion. The Medicaid portal for reimbursements immediately shut down, raising alarm on top of uncertainty about the status of critical funding needed to support many important programs. Sen. Jacky Rosen said, “President Trump’s freeze on federal grants and funding has jeopardized key programs that many Nevadans rely on.”
Twenty-three states, including Nevada, filed a lawsuit resulting in a federal judge postponing the order. Due to the widespread outcry, the White House rescinded it.
However, its future remains uncertain.
Some call Trump’s withdrawal from the World Health Organization reckless and an attack on science and public health.
There are 194 countries working together to fight the world’s toughest public health problems.
It is not in the interest of the U.S. to exit the organization. It would isolate the U.S. health system which includes National Institutes of Health, the FDA, and the Centers for Disease Control. We cannot isolate ourselves and expect to be safe from health threats that don’t respect borders.
The H5N1 Bird flu outbreak is an example. That’s the kind of thing we want to be monitoring globally and collaborating with other countries on.
This is a political decision made at the expense of the health and safety of all of us. Right now the U.S. has the most say about what happens at WHO and we are first in line to receive new vaccines.
Trump also imposed an unprecedented gag order on all federal health agencies.
This pauses communications including health advisories, weekly scientific reports, any updated communications on infectious diseases and evolving threats, as well as routine releases on food recalls.
Cutting dollars and slashing programs doesn’t make the government more efficient or effective or anyone safer.
Thoughtful planning and examination and understanding of consequences is needed.
Elizabeth Valdes
Minden