Here we are, in the midst of a partial government shutdown, because legislators and the president are locking horns over border security (specifically, a wall or barrier to unregulated entry in violation of existing immigration laws).

Yes, I do favor a wall, and though I’m not a fan of shutting down government operations, I do see it as a legitimate action for the sake of a greater good.
Constitutionally, the primary focus of government is the safety and security of its citizens, and those entrusted with representing the citizens should take that responsibility seriously. I would submit that it ought to be their sole intent, but that’s obviously not the case.

I find it appalling that the very representatives who once supported funding for a border wall (Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer) are now vehemently opposed to it. Could it be that the real cause of the deadlock is a stubborn opposition to the current occupant of the White House?

There are 77 countries around the world with border walls, 62 of them being built since 1990, so the notion of our having such a barrier at our borders is hardly a novel one. Our borders and our citizens must be protected, and a wall will certainly deter illegal intrusion and potential harm.

As to the shutdown, I went through the government shutdown of 1994. I worked for the Defense Department and my job was considered mission-essential, which meant we had to show up for work every day regardless of paycheck. The issue was not one of getting paid, but getting the job done.

Of course, I was 25 years younger then and also worked side jobs which helped keep us afloat, but we survived. Anyone whose parents were children of the Depression learned how to make do with less. The current employees will receive paychecks when the log-jam is over. I can only suggest that they knuckle down, scrimp and save, and be careful with their money.

Security is worth everyone’s sacrifice. Let’s get back to basics and reject partisan bickering.

— Ed Rosenback/Vallejo