Nation's constitutional crisis, Jay Jacobs and Mamdani
President Donald Trump greets justices of the Supreme Court before addressing a joint session of Congress in March. Credit: AP / J. Scott Applewhite
Our nation has a constitutional crisis
As soon as I read the first sample question and answer from the 2025 citizenship test, I immediately thought of the official statement issued by the national League of Women Voters declaring that we are in a constitutional crisis [“Citizenship test adds questions, changes format, wording,” News, Sept. 20].
The question: There are three branches of government. Why?
Answers: So one part does not become too powerful; checks and balances; separation of powers.
On April 17, the league said: “From the flagrant disregard for congressional authority and governmental check and balances to defying Supreme Court orders ... one thing is abundantly clear: our country is in a constitutional crisis.” That is spot on.
The second sample question is worth noting, too: The President of the United States can serve only two terms. Why? Answers: Because of the 22nd Amendment; to keep the president from becoming too powerful.
President Donald Trump is trying to consolidate power in the executive branch and repeatedly talked about a third term. Does he need to take a citizenship exam?
— Barbara Kurek, East Islip
Jacobs' actions belie 'big tent' party
I was dismayed to read that state Democratic chairman Jay Jacobs refuses to support New York City Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani while claiming Democrats are still a “big tent party” [“Jacobs says he won’t endorse Mamdani,” News, Sept. 19]. Mamdani is winning at the polls because he’s standing up for voters. When people hear him speak, they don’t hear the “radical” caricature that his opponents paint. Rather, they hear a candidate who will fight for them. That’s the energy that progressives bring to the party.
Perhaps Jacobs should reconsider his stated intention to remain as chair. Under his leadership, I’ve watched Long Island turn redder over the 25 years I’ve lived here. The party needs leaders who will stand with candidates who energize voters, not against them, and time is of the essence.
— Aaron Clow, Farmingville
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