To the Editor:
Donald Trump’s recent remarks at a Nebraska rally suggesting that Iran should “take out” Los Angeles or San Diego represent a level of recklessness that no democracy should tolerate from its sitting president. These are not off-the-cuff exaggerations or typical political hyperbole. They are statements that trivialize mass death, undermine national security and abandon the most basic duty of the presidency: protecting the American people.
When a president publicly muses about the acceptability of a foreign adversary bombing U.S. cities, he is no longer exercising judgment compatible with the office. San Diego is home to more than a million residents and critical military installations. Los Angeles is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the country. To imply that their destruction would be a “small price to pay” is not merely irresponsible; it is dangerous, destabilizing and fundamentally incompatible with the role of commander-in-chief.
These comments do not exist in isolation. They follow a pattern of increasingly erratic, vicious and conspiratorial rhetoric that has alarmed officials across the political spectrum. The presidency demands clarity of mind, stability of temperament and unwavering commitment to the nation’s safety. Trump’s recent behavior raises serious questions about his ability to meet those requirements.
The 25th Amendment’s Section 4 was designed precisely for moments when a president’s conduct demonstrates an inability to discharge the powers and duties of the office. The framers intentionally left “inability” broad, recognizing that mental instability, impaired judgment or behavior posing a direct threat to the nation could all warrant action. Trump’s Nebraska remarks meet that threshold.
Invoking the 25th Amendment is a grave step, but so is ignoring a commander-in-chief who casually entertains the idea of foreign attacks on U.S. soil. For the sake of national security and constitutional stability, it is time for leaders to confront the seriousness of this moment and consider whether the president remains capable of faithfully executing his duties.
Bill GreenBeach HavenOctober 14, 2026
