Sound Off: June 17, 2026
Sun Herald readers weigh in on local and national topics.
State highway department
I find it highly ironic that the same edition of the paper has my question on state highway department contracts and time limits on construction, that there is a front-page article on the $35 million welcome center to be built. Apparently, it’s going to take two years to rebuild an existing welcome center. Additionally, the cost will probably not require the purchase of additional land. Shad White should investigate the department and its contracts.
Art of the Deal
So we definitely lost that war, right? All we did was bomb a school and whine a ton, then falsely claim victory over a dozen times. The only thing that really changed was the Ayatollah is now 40 years younger and angry. Art of the Deal.
Just as bad?
So, Biden’s withdrawal from Afghanistan (a war he didn’t start), cost 13 U.S. military lives and several billions worth of military equipment left behind. Initial reports of Trump’s “peace” deal with Iran (a war he started): 13 confirmed military deaths, at least $100 billion in direct costs and now, $324 billions to be given to Iran.
Claiming victory
New “Art of The Deal” is out, and it’s short: Give your opponent everything they ask for and declare victory.
What did we gain?
If you look at the president’s declared war aims from when he launched his totally optional war, and then compare with the outcomes (at least so far) you’re inevitably accused of just not “getting” him.
We had a deal
Iran had already agreed not to build a nuke in April 2015. Meaning all that happened was we spent a bunch of money, got our soldiers killed, caused a global energy crisis and spiked the price of gas, and gave Iran $25 billion for the privilege.
Check your sources
No, the United States Is not paying Iran $300B. The Gulf States in the region have committed $300B to help rebuild Iran should it meet certain benchmarks in the agreement. Unlike the arrangement with Iran made by President Obama, this deal conditions payments and sanctions relief on Iran meeting its commitments. Unsurprisingly, the Iranian regime is reporting on the deal in a way that makes it appear that they have won major concessions. In the future, please check your sources before reacting to something that appears to be provocative and repeating it as fact.
Stocks are soaring
Headline: Dow climbs more than 450 points for record close. Thank you, President Trump.
The greatness of America
What the World Cup has brought to the United States could not have been more providentially perfect for our 250th anniversary. The rest of the world is coming here and reminding us what makes America so great.
Big difference
The Democrats will tell you all about the many things that are wrong with America. The visitors here for the World Cup can’t stop posting on social media about how great America is. Big difference.
Disgrace
Nothing against the UFC, but using our military and Marines as props in dress uniform honoring the fighters was an absolute abuse of power and a disgrace.
The ballroom
Are we sure the president really wants to build a ballroom? Or is he planning a UFC arena on the White House grounds?
Send your Sound Offs to soundoff@sunherald.com.