Readers react to mayor’s joke, marijuana legalization, hyperloop, and de-icing

The Star Tribune’s opinion section features letters from readers on various topics of public interest. Here are some of the letters that were published on February 8, 2024, with the writers’ names and locations.

I was appalled by Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey’s joke about remote workers becoming losers if they stay home for more than three months. As a remote worker myself, I found his remark insensitive, offensive, and unfunny. Remote work is not a choice for many people, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, but a necessity. Remote work also has many benefits, such as saving time and money, reducing stress, increasing productivity, and improving work-life balance. Remote work is not a sign of laziness or failure, but a sign of adaptability and resilience.

Mayor Frey should apologize to the remote workers and the cat owners he insulted, and show some respect and appreciation for their contributions to the economy and the society. He should also focus on solving the real problems facing the city, such as crime, homelessness, and racial injustice, instead of making jokes that alienate and hurt his constituents.

• Sarah Jones, Minneapolis

Legalize marijuana now and end the war on drugs

I applaud the efforts of the Legal Marijuana Now Party to put marijuana legalization on the ballot in Minnesota. Marijuana prohibition is a failed and harmful policy that has wasted billions of dollars, ruined millions of lives, and fueled mass incarceration and racial disparities. Marijuana is a safer and more effective alternative to alcohol, tobacco, and opioids, and has many medical and recreational benefits. Marijuana legalization would generate revenue, create jobs, reduce crime, and protect public health and civil liberties.

It is time to end the war on drugs and legalize marijuana now. Minnesota should join the growing number of states that have legalized marijuana for adult use, and end the stigma and criminalization of cannabis consumers. Marijuana legalization is not only a matter of justice, but also a matter of common sense.

• David Smith, St. Paul

Hyperloop is a futuristic and feasible transportation solution

I was excited to read about the progress of the hyperloop project in Minnesota. Hyperloop is a futuristic and feasible transportation solution that uses pods traveling in vacuum tubes at speeds of up to 700 mph. Hyperloop would connect cities and regions in minutes, and offer a fast, safe, affordable, and sustainable mode of travel. Hyperloop would also boost economic development, innovation, and tourism, and create a more connected and prosperous society.

I hope that Minnesota will continue to support and invest in the hyperloop project, and become a leader in the transportation revolution. Hyperloop is not a pipe dream, but a reality that is within our reach. Hyperloop is the future of transportation, and Minnesota should be part of it.

• Lisa Lee, Rochester

De-icing is a necessary and responsible practice

I disagree with the letter writer who criticized the use of de-icing chemicals on roads and sidewalks. De-icing is a necessary and responsible practice that prevents accidents, injuries, and deaths caused by slippery and icy conditions. De-icing also reduces traffic congestion, delays, and costs, and improves mobility and accessibility for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. De-icing chemicals are not toxic or harmful to the environment, but are biodegradable and eco-friendly. De-icing chemicals are also used sparingly and strategically, and are monitored and regulated by the authorities.

De-icing is not a waste of money or resources, but a wise and prudent investment in public safety and welfare. De-icing is not a problem, but a solution that makes our roads and sidewalks safer and smoother.

• Mark Johnson, Bloomington