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Ivan Boesky, Bernie Madoff, and Lou Pearlman are convicted fraudsters who stole millions from innocent investors and clients. Does this mean all Jewish men are thieves and hucksters? Al Capone, Lucky Luciano, and John Gotti were mob bosses. Does this mean all Italians are mafiosi? Liam O’Flaherty, Brendan Behan, and Shane McGowan were reported to be alcoholics. Does this mean every Irish writer is a drunk? The answers are obviously no.
I do not know what is true or untrue about the “scams” allegedly perpetrated by Somali Americans in Minnesota. The allegations are serious, the numbers staggering, and need to be fully investigated and the perpetrators prosecuted.
But I also know that no matter the scope of this investigation, to paint all Somali citizens as criminals is absurd. To call them “garbage” is revolting and more proof positive that the president is unfit for office and should be removed by the 25th Amendment.
Bruce Pratt
Swanville