Jan 13, 2024 2 min read

Kudos to the Observer-Reporter for the recent editorial imploring America to get smarter about civics and history. The editorial closes by stating that ignorance “can have dire consequences.” This is true.

This brings me to Dave Ball. In Ball’s most recent op-ed in the Observer-Reporter, he incorrectly accuses President Biden of treason for what amounts to be policy disagreements. This is beyond the pale. Treason is the most serious crime that one can commit against any country, and in the United States it can carry the death penalty.

Traitors tend to be infamous. Think of Benedict Arnold, whose name is synonymous with treason. Think of Julius Rosenberg, who was executed for selling nuclear secrets to the Soviets. Think of Robert E. Lee, who left the United States military and fought against the United States in a war of secession. It should be pointed out that unlike the others, Lee is celebrated as an American hero, despite being an invaluable part of the Confederacy, which killed more Pennsylvania service members than did any other enemy of the United States. In this regard, Lee’s current hero status, which runs contrary to the traitor that he was, shows the dire consequences of ignorance. These are examples of actual treason.

However, in Ball’s mind, Biden’s policies amount to treason. This is wrong, hyperbolic and reckless. Does Ball not know this and is therefore acting out of stupidity? He certainly has a long history of being wrong. Remember the red wave, and the impending recession that he’s been predicting since Biden took office? Both wrong.

But it ultimately does not matter from where Ball’s nonsense emanates. It is up to the O-R to enforce standards and not permit a political hack to make such demonstrably false claims. For this, I have to say shame on the O-R for publishing such dangerous nonsense. Ball should retain the right to express opinions, but should be subjected to some level of fact checking and not just given a forum to spread falsehoods.

John Moretti

Claysville