To the Editor:

Pat McKeown's letter regarding NCPR's comments section contradicts itself. The writer demands the ceasing of "clucking about" Congresswoman Elise Stefanik and Trump, whom McKeown claims are seeking to "crush" media news stations. Then in the same letter declares NCPR gives equal voice to everyone and everyone should "speak up." So which is it, Pat? Exercise our right to free speech, or shut up expressing contrary opinions you do not like?

When I last viewed the NCPR comment section regarding the NPR article on former NPR staffer Martha Foley Smith illegal and unethical using her legacy NPR email to promote voting for Democrat candidates, the majority of responses proactively attacked Elise Stefanik. These comments strove to excuse Ms. Smith egregious violation being "minor" in comparison to alleged misconduct by the Congresswoman. The posts included childish animations mocking Ms. Stefanik, further degrading the thread's legitimacy.

If Pat McKeown wants civility in public discussion forums like NCPR, then let's start with stopping degrading comments and amateurish cartoons concerning Stefanik to create a smokescreen hiding Ms. Smith's crime. The constant deflection to cover Democrat mistakes by blaming Trump and Stefanik is getting wearisome.

Ron Shirtz
Rensselaer Falls