For What it’s Worth: Warren Hecht

At times during the Trump presidency, I felt like I was the only one speaking out against Trump. My isolation was not only in the columns I wrote. One would look at the letters to the editor which mirrored the ideas of my fellow columnists who discussed politics. It was few and far between for anyone to criticize the Trumpian columnists no matter how extreme their positions had become. It was not because everyone agreed with them. I would frequently receive support via email or in person, from those who agreed with what I say. Some would also tell me that I am the only one in the paper who they agree with. However, they were afraid to say anything publicly because of fear of being berated in the paper or in the community. Someone told me that if they came out against Trump they would lose their job. Now there is a new president, and maybe the tide is starting to change. In the January 28 Queens Jewish Link, there were two letters to the editor taking to task the comments of three of the Trumpian columnists. Another letter from a frequent critic begrudgingly admitted that “there are just too many people who think like Warren Hecht.” Keep it going. I look forward to the day when the majority of the letters will be in support of the new administration and against the Trumpians.

Like most Americans, I am still in shock, trying to come to grips with the attack on the Capitol by Trump extremists. There is so much to talk about, but I will try to limit my comments.

I have no illusions that there will be a sudden end to the deep divisions that exist in our country. However, for one day, Inauguration Day, there was a sense of healing, a feeling that things can get back to normal.

I remember January 1, 2020. It was only a year ago, but it feels so long ago and in a different world and time. On that day, I was at MetLife Stadium celebrating the Siyam Hashas. It was the most enjoyable January 1 I have ever had. The enjoyment felt by those tens of thousands who were there was clear for all to see. The secular society was also having their New Year’s Eve and New Year’s celebrations.  It was a new decade with anticipation. Who would’ve expected that the year would turn so tragically so quickly?

Four years ago, Donald Trump referred to “American carnage” in his inaugural address. How prophetic were his words to describe the United States at the end of the Trump presidency?

This past year there were 43 letters to the editor written in response to my articles - 2 positive and 41 critical. Most were written by frequent critics. I have a better average than the president and his allies have had in court in trying to overturn results of the election. Despite what people would expect, I encourage everyone who wants to comment to send in to the paper. On occasion, it helps me focus on my message and explain an argument that may have not been as clear as I thought.