Week 1 Prompt 2

 I think I was disappointed but not surprised to learn that we would not be on campus during the winter quarter. I occasionally take a look at the numbers locally and nationally, and it seems like things are only getting worse. Not to be excessively pessimistic, but I doubt we will be in person for the spring, as it just doesn't seem to make sense to move in for 10 weeks, especially amid worsening COVID conditions. At the restaurant I work at, we had a COVID outbreak, with 4 employees testing positive, and nearly everyone missing time due to contact tracing. While I was lucky to have not really been affected earlier in the pandemic, I spent most of my winter break dealing with that.

Regarding the riots at the Capital earlier this week, I was shocked to see the news on Wednesday. Regardless of political opinions, it is absolutely unacceptable to try and invalidate the results of an election based on completely unsubstantiated claims, in what was essentially an attempted coup. I felt that the actions of the President were shameful, and incited unnecessary violence. If there is a silver lining, I know that Trump's actions further alienated some Republicans I know, and if he is not impeached, likely weakens support for a future run for office. One thing I disagree with is Twitter and social media permanently banning President Trump's accounts. As the age old saying goes, "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it." While I understand the removal of posts that are not factual or incite conflict, the complete censorship of anyone, seems like it sets a dangerous precedent and seems in conflict with the values of free speech (I realize that the 1st Amendment only applies to government figures and not companies like Twitter). I know other people have different opinions, and I'd love to hear what other people think about this subject.