Old-growth forests are a disappearing treasure. This is how we can protect them | Opinion

Saving old-growth forests

Conserving what old-growth trees are left should be a priority for Washington state. These older trees are critical in storing massive amounts of carbon. Pacific Northwest trees are the third most important source of carbon storage in the whole world, and critical for the planet. Timber companies are far more interested in profits than in the environment.

The two candidates running for lands commissioner could not be more different in their views. Herrera Beutler’s campaign is funded by the timber companies. She plans to keep cutting the larger trees. Dave Upthegrove believes in judicious conservation and will preserve them.

Yes, we need money for schools but studies show that we could be cutting plantation forests instead, and make just as much money. We need to be sure that both our children and our old-growth forest are protected. I hope you will vote for Upthegrove.

Natasha Hays, Olympia

Jankanish op-ed gets it backward

“Democrats pose greater threat to freedom than Trump” based on a French citizen’s critique of America in the 1830s. De Tocqueville saw hope in America’s constitution that protected minority rights, a free press and independent judiciary.

It’s 2024 and again, Trump is running for president, stating that he would be a dictator for a day. Claiming that he has nothing to do with Project 2025, his Agenda 47 shares many policies including expanding presidential powers — basically, destroying the U.S. Constitution.

Jankanish states that Democrats will attack the Supreme Court by packing the court and having term limits. Because there are 12 appeals courts, it should be increased to 12.

Republicans, with the aid of the Federalist Society, have stacked the Court with conservative J\justices, who refuse to abide by any ethics rules required by other federal judges.

Recent court decisions have restricted the rights of Americans.

Citizen United in 2010 tilted political influence towards wealthy donors and corporations. Gutting the Voting Rights Act in 2013 allowed states to restrict voters’ rights. Overturning Roe v. Wade in 2020 harmed women’s reproductive rights. And in 2024, the court declared that the president is immune from prosecution for certain acts.

Who is the greatest threat to America’s freedom, democracy and national security?

Steve Golubic, Puyallup

Harris will protect women’s rights

I remember the second day of my senior trip to Disneyland, being spammed with news of the overturn of Roe v. Wade. As a freshly eighteen-year-old woman, I was undoubtedly terrified.

Women will forever have a target on their backs in this country, as we have always been viewed as an object in the eyes of many of our political leaders. Victims of rape or incest have been put in forced motherhood of their abusers’ babies. Others face life threatening health conditions with zero help from professionals. We can thank Donald Trump for this, as he bragged about his decision to place three conservative justices on the Supreme Court. He is a man that not only disrespects women but feeds off abusive acts towards them.

The women of our country deserve a leader, like Kamala Harris, who supports and respects us. Our next president may have the power to appoint another justice, which could make or break our access to reproductive healthcare. I encourage all readers of the Tacoma News Tribune to consider the women in your life and the rights you deserve when deciding on who you are voting for this election season.

Olivia Harris, Steilacoom

Jackson good pick for sheriff

I recently had the opportunity to attend a forum featuring the two candidates for Pierce County sheriff. Both were articulate and seemed committed to working to increase security for our county. However, Patti Jackson spoke realistically about the problems facing all of Pierce County. She understood the need for greater numbers of officers, and the budget dollars required to secure them.

I had a question regarding both candidates’ positions on restricting access to military-style weapons. I presented that question to each on their Facebook page. I received a personal response from Patti within 24 hours. I’m still waiting for Keith Swank’s response.

I believe that Jackson is committed to our community, and I encourage everyone to support her bid to serve as Pierce County sheriff.

Michael Low, Gig Harbor