Again, Representative Reichert has failed to show the moral leadership that his constituents in the 8th Congressional District deserve. His response to the Muslim (travel) ban was to give a wishy-washy statement that failed to make clear that the ban is un-American, immoral, and unconstitutional. Indeed, he failed to indicate approving or opposing the ban.

We know exactly what is happening. Our Muslim brothers and sisters are suffering horridly in Syria and elsewhere. It is immoral to deny re-entry to Green Card holders. Excluding people who risked their lives as interpreters is a betrayal. Religious discrimination is un-American. Good people are being hurt. ISIS is using this as a recruitment tool. Our Muslim allies are being alienated. Our Muslim neighbors are being harmed.

Immigrants from the Middle East are already being carefully vetted. The ban is a moral and strategic blunder.

We know what is going on. Jews, Christians, and people of good faith are speaking out. From Leviticus to Jesus’s story of the “Good Samaritan,” the scripture is clear. We are to love our brothers, and risk our own safety in acts of love.

After Reichert received 700 calls objecting to Trump’s action, he made a stronger statement, but still fell short of calling it unconstitutional. Reichert’s real outrage was saved for the 700 constituent calls protesting the ban, and the letters about being locked out of his office. He says they think only their opinions matter.

Roger Ledbetter

Snoqualmie