07/03/2019

My dear Friend and president, DJT,

            Thanks for giving up on your quest to ask about citizenship on the census. That was a losing battle and it takes courage to quit. We need to know how many people are living in each state so we can equitably distribute federal funds and make sure everyone is fairly represented in Congress. I know you are interested in identifying individuals who do not have "documents", but the census is not the vehicle for that. I'm glad that you finally came around on that one.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/white-house-gives-tickets-to-trumps-july-fourth-extravaganza-to-gop-donors/2019/07/02/9109a566-9ce0-11e9-b27f-ed2942f73d70_story.html?utm_term=.592a94c9de04

         As your friend, I have to tell you that I'm afraid you have gotten carried away. This July 4 celebration has gone over the top and folks are complaining. The objection that I found the most compelling came from Brendan Fischer, federal reform director for the Campaign Legal Centerwho said, "limiting public access to a public monument on Independence Day in favor of wealthy donors just sends a signal that our political system favors the wealthy and well-connected." You don't want to send that message, do you? 

            I encourage you to cut back on the air show. It's noisy and expensive, and most of us don't know a F-35 from a F-22 so it really isn't worth it. If you really have to go ahead with this, you should find a way to pay for it yourself. I know that you have $2.5 million to reimburse the Park Service for the added expense of this extravaganza. Paying for that part of the cost is the least you could do.

            Just remember, your birthday is on June 14. July 4th is the nation's birthday. 

            Best,

            RCA