I wish to express my appreciation for the excellent articles and columns that the Brookings Register puts out on a daily basis — especially your coverage of political events. Your March 3 issue was a particular gem.

John Kubal’s Curmudgeon’s Corner resonated with me. Perhaps it was because he used the exact words that I used in a recent phone call to Senator Thune’s office. I did not reach a live person, but left this message:

“Dear Sen. Thune, could you please help me out? I am doing research on former American presidents. Could you please tell me if any other former president ever came close to matching President Trump’s capacity for being shallow, self-serving, petty, mean-spirited and vindictive?”

I am still waiting to hear back.

In this same issue Carl Kline wrote another of his excellent columns, this one touching on the topic of integrity and greatness.

He included a marvelous list of synonyms for the word greatness — qualities that seem to be lacking in the convicted felon who now occupies the White House.

And right below the Kline column was a pertinent Speakout submitted by Roberta Olson. She, too, echoed my own sentiments when she spoke of “…the lack of spine in our three elected officials of South Dakota. … I am appalled at the irresponsibility and apparent lack of ethical standards of politicians…”

I also look forward to the frequent contributions that Bob Burns makes to the Register. His expertise and the political insights that he shares with your readers are much appreciated.

In conclusion, I thank you and commend you for producing an exceptional paper.