To the editor:
President-elect Donald Trump has already managed to seriously undermine [sic] our national security. Before availing himself of full security briefings, he not only questioned the conclusions of our intelligence agencies on Russian meddling in the presidential campaign, he also publicly mocked the agencies. This undermines their credibility and effectiveness, eroding the safety of all Americans. (“Trump hurts himself and the nation by trashing the intelligence community,” editorial, Jan. 5)
Why would Trump do this? It seems clear that there are only two possible reasons: One is that he doesn’t want to jeopardize his business relationships in Russia (and since he has been so secretive regarding his tax returns and business relationships, this possibility cannot be discounted). The second (and more disturbing) reason could simply relate to Trump’s personal insecurity. It’s reasonable to believe that Trump’s attacks on our intelligence establishment are simply a result of the suggestion being made that Russian hacking may have influenced the results of the 2016 election in his favor.
A president whose personal business dealings or fragile ego jeopardize the safety of Americans is not fit to hold office.
Matthew Singerman, Newbury Park
Note from KBJ: This is paranoia. The intelligence agencies are politicized. Donald Trump is calling them out on it. End of story.
