Radicalization of Household Pets
Dear Editor,
In last week’s opinion piece, “There Is No Such Thing as a Dangerous Book” [Columns, Aug. 27], Liam Mathison Farmer argues, rightly, against book bans. However, he makes the case that no book can be potentially harmful to a child by highlighting that he read Mein Kampf as a child and did not become a Nazi. Besides the obvious questions (How old was he? Was it a physical copy? Was The Protocols of the Learned Elders of Zion not available?), I was left wondering if the author or the Chronicle really don’t think there is any danger in exposing children to the most famous and influential work of antisemitic propaganda ever published. I don’t say this only as a Jewish parent of young children concerned about the rise of antisemitism among young people, many of whom are radicalized by what they see online, but also as an adult who knows the impact such works of propaganda can have. And with all due respect to Liam’s “fur babies,” I am less worried about the radicalization of household pets.
Thank you,
Ben Hartman
Another Ann
Dear Editor,
Ann Richards was one of the most popular governors ever to hold office in Texas. She was a dynamo, a nonstop champion of minorities, women, and working-class Texans. Whip-smart, charismatic, and accessible, she raised the state’s economy, emphasizing lifelong education. Her approval rating was right at 60%. She didn’t monger fear nor did she blow a racist dog whistle.
Currently, is there anyone in the three highest offices of the Texas government fit to carry her luggage?
Hmm… anyone know a smart, dynamic, female Democrat who might now fill the chair where Ann Richards once sat?
Steve Suvia
This article appears in September 11 • 2026.