Free Press readers

Donald Trump's rhetoric perfectly fits a constituency of disaffected Republicans, Democrats, independents and persons who have not voted for years. The “Princess Bride,” and Plato, referenced last Sunday in Stephen Henderson’s column on Trump’s rhetoric , are not on his constituents’ reading list. The GOP establishment is stunned. But, Trump confidently reasons that the GOP establishment will pivot and vote for him rather than a socialist or tarnished Democratic opponent in the presidential election. Trump is not the clown he frequently appears to be on stage; instead, he is a clever, complex, and nuanced Machiavelli. To wit: Trump's rhetoric has duped the liberal media to finance his TV campaign in exchange for his celebrity in attracting viewership and ratings.

Vic St. Amand

Midland

Shine a light on judges’ actions

Thank you so very much for bringing the Judge Henry Saad-Judge Tina Brooks Green travesty to light. The public needs to know when judges and politicians grant each other special favors. It is an embarrassment to both Saad and Green to shortcut the justice system the way they did. While I applaud the Free Press’ filing a formal grievance, I think the it may have not gone far enough. Hopefully, the Judicial Tenure Commission also looks into Judge Green's sentencing record and takes special note if Judge Green went lighter on Judge Saad than she has with other upstanding citizens that made the same mistake. Certainly Saad deserves to be treated with respect. But, he is not above the law, nor due process.

Marc Greenlee

Bloomfield Hills

Red Wings’ playoff streak one for the books

After watching the Red Wings clinch a playoff berth for the 25th consecutive season, it shows that they are one of the most successful franchises in all of sports. That kind of consistency is something that just isn't seen in any era, and is virtually impossible to emulate. An all around amazing streak that stands alone in the annals of the National Hockey League.

Jeff Swanson

Everett, Wash.

Columnist perpetuates charter-school myth

Columnist Rochelle Riley repeated the myth that public charter schools systematically turn away students with extraordinary learning challenges. The numbers show otherwise. Like most other public schools, charters may not admit students selectively. About 10% of Michigan charter students have recognized special needs. Extensive research in New York and Denver found the average special-needs family is less likely to choose a charter school at the beginning of a student’s career. Riley offers platitudes about educational choice, but mischaracterizes how it works. It’s time to lay down arms and let families choose.

Ben DeGrow

Midland

Snyder continues to pass blame on Flint

Gov. Rick Snyder has repeatedly said he "takes full responsibility" for what happened in Flint. Why is it though, that every time he utters those words, his next statement blames someone else? State workers, the Environmental Protection Agency and more. Did he ever watch the news or read a paper that pointed out the dirty water coming out of the taps in Flint months before he claims he knew? I saw it, and likely just about everyone but him saw it too — way before last September.

Steve Lawrence

Northville Township