Sound Off: November 18, 2025

Sun Herald readers weigh in on local and national topics.

Social Security good and bad

I received an email from Social Security today, and when I signed in I learned that identity verification is now an annual requirement. In addition to the usual two-step LOGIN.GOV process — entering your email and password and then confirming with a code sent to your phone — you must now re-verify your identity every year. This can be challenging for many folks who may not have the tools, ability, cell phone or confidence to do it online, though they can still complete the process in person at a Social Security office. The good news is that this added security may help prevent checks from going to ineligible or deceased individuals. The bad news is that it’s yet another bureaucratic hurdle for the rest of us. Just a heads up: if you plan to verify online, you’ll need a cell phone capable of taking pictures, and you’ll be guided through photographing your driver’s license, state ID, or passport, along with taking a selfie.

Now what?

Now what will Democrats rage about now that President Trump himself has called for the so-called Epstein files to be released? I’d try to keep my party from falling into communism, but that makes sense.

President TACO

After fighting and threatening House Republicans against release of the Epstein files, President Trump has reversed his position. Now, realizing they can’t possibly stop the vote, both Trump and Speaker Johnson have done a total reversal. To give the appearance of innocence, they now say “we have nothing to hide” and there should be a vote. The gaslighting won’t work, Republicans finally showed some moral character and stood up against the king.

Welcome

I love the new Mississippi Gulf Coast sign in the sand when you come off the I-110 in Biloxi. However, I think they should have added the words “Welcome to”.

Tariff genius

I see that President Trump is removing the tariffs on coffee, bananas, and other tropical products. My question is why they were put on in the first place. We can’t grow them here.

Come on up

The Harrison County Sheriff Department has made it clear to me that you can ride your four wheelers and dirt bikes on county roads, and you don’t even need a helmet. So come on everyone and ride up here in Saucier. I’ll even get my banjo out and pick you a tune.

Redaction

What might the Epstein files have undergone while in the custody of Trump’s loyal DOJ?

Send your Sound Offs to soundoff@sunherald.com.